Business Oregon

10/16/2026

How can Oregon communities invest in critical infrastructure without raising rates for residents?

That’s the big question being explored today at the League of Oregon Cities Conference in Salem!

Business Oregon is proud to sponsor the breakout session “Paying for Infrastructure Without Raising Rates,” focused on helping cities navigate aging infrastructure, rising costs, and tight budgets.

Our Regional Development Officer, Jeff Hampton, kicked things off by introducing speakers Lisa Brown and Mike Kozlowski of Johnson Controls and sharing how Business Oregon supports communities through infrastructure financing, technical assistance, and other programs.

From water and wastewater systems to other essential public infrastructure, these investments help Oregon communities grow, thrive, and plan for the future.

We’re thrilled to support conversations that bring practical solutions to the table and help Oregon cities make the most of their resources!

Johnson Controls League of Oregon Cities

10/16/2026

📣Good news for Oregon innovators! Business Oregon and the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network are bringing back expert help for entrepreneurs applying for federal SBIR/STTR research funding. These awards can reach $1 million, and founders don't give up any equity. Programming starts this fall. Learn more: https://www.oen.org/sbir-sttr-assistance/

10/15/2026

Oregon businesses: Have you added jobs in the past year? There may be a tax credit for that!

Business Oregon’s Qualified Jobs Creation Tax Credit offers $1,000 for each qualifying net new job, up to $10,000 per taxpayer per tax year.

Eligible industries include advanced manufacturing, bioscience, clean technology, food and beverage processing, forestry, high tech, and outdoor gear and apparel.

Applications for the 2026 tax year close October 31, 2026, so now is the time to check eligibility and apply. A helpful application walkthrough video is also available on the program webpage.

Review requirements and apply: https://www.oregon.gov/biz/programs/QJCTC/Pages/default.aspx

Questions? Contact [email protected].

Know a business that’s been growing its team? Share this opportunity with them!

10/15/2026

We’re in Salem this week for the League of Oregon Cities Annual Conference, and we’re proud to be a sponsor!

One of the most valuable parts of attending events like this is getting to connect directly with the communities we serve. It’s an opportunity to hear about their successes, understand their challenges, and learn how we can better support their goals.

We had a chance to catch up with City of Independence Mayor Kate Schwarzler about several projects Business Oregon has partnered with the city to support, including:

• Early Childhood Education: Supporting educator certification and training through our Community Development Block Grant program.

• Housing Infrastructure: Providing technical assistance for the design of the new Ash Creek pump station and forcemain.

• Water and Wastewater Infrastructure: Supporting wastewater treatment improvements and regional water treatment plant design through our Special Public Works Fund.

These projects are great examples of how economic development goes beyond supporting businesses. It’s also about investing in the infrastructure, workforce, and resources that help communities thrive.

We’re looking forward to more conversations with local leaders throughout the conference. After all, the best way to understand what Oregon communities need is to hear directly from the people who know them best!

10/15/2026

Growing your team? Your business could qualify for a smaller tax bill.

Business Oregon’s Qualified Jobs Creation Tax Credit offers eligible employers $1,000 per qualifying net new job, up to $10,000 per taxpayer per tax year.

From food and beverage processing to advanced manufacturing, businesses across seven eligible industries may qualify. Applications for the 2026 tax year close October 31, so now is the time to check your eligibility.

Read more in the Portland Business Journal:
https://ow.ly/ZCtJ50ZY8u0

Find program details and apply:
https://ow.ly/Lnzr50ZY8tW

10/14/2026

New businesses are doing heavy lifting in Oregon’s economy. In 2023, firms 1–5 years old created about 59% of the state’s net new jobs, well above the national share of 46.5%. Our Economist Damon Runberg breaks down what the data shows and why it matters in his 1859 Onward blog: https://www.oregon.gov/biz/aboutus/blog/Pages/Why_New_Businesses_Matter_More_Than_Ever_for_Oregons_Job_Market.aspx

10/14/2026

Team Oregon is at SEMICON West!

Today kicks off three days of connecting with semiconductor companies, researchers and industry partners from around the world. Business Oregon and our partners are bringing the Silicon Forest’s story to San Francisco, showcasing the expertise and collaboration that help companies innovate and grow in Oregon.

From research and design to manufacturing and shipment, Oregon’s semiconductor strengths run deep. We’re here to build on those strengths, support our existing companies and open doors to new investment.

Learn more about the story we’re sharing:
https://ow.ly/eLIF50ZXqlo

In Oregon, a semiconductor can move from an idea through research, design, manufacturing, and testing without leaving the state. That depth is rare in the United States. It is also the story Business Oregon and its partners will carry to San Francisco when SEMICON West returns to the Moscone Center....

10/12/2026

Business Oregon, in partnership with Port of Portland, invites Oregon companies to join a trade mission to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, December 11–19, 2026. The mission will focus on sectors where Oregon companies are especially well-positioned to compete, including medical technologies and wood products. ✈️🤝

Participating companies will benefit from a curated program of business-to-business matchmaking, meetings with prospective customers and partners, government and industry engagement, and market briefings designed to help companies understand where they fit in Vietnam’s rapidly evolving economy.

Traveling with our delegation provides a level of access that can be difficult to achieve independently, including introductions facilitated through government and institutional relationships and dedicated local market support. Learn more and register here: https://biznews.oregon.gov/acton/rif/14786/s-0a1e-2609/-/l-unified-contacts:6c66/l-unified-contacts/showPreparedMessage?sid=TV2:XXdu9G2je

10/09/2026

Business Oregon, in partnership with Prosper Portland, invites Oregon clean technology companies working in renewable energy, battery and energy storage, hydrogen, grid modernization, EV charging and electrification, and energy software to join the Oregon State Booth at RE+ 2026, North America's premier clean energy trade show. 🔋♻️💻

RE+ brings together thousands of industry leaders, manufacturers, project developers, utilities, investors, and buyers from around the world. Participating in the Oregon State Booth is an excellent opportunity to showcase your company, expand your business network, and explore new domestic and international market opportunities.

If you are interested in participating or would like more information, complete the registration form: https://biznews.oregon.gov/acton/fs/blocks/showLandingPage/a/14786/p/p-0153/t/page/fm/0?sid=TV2:X57gsSUPA

10/08/2026

Business Oregon's Oregon Broadband Office is pleased to announce a major milestone for grantees of the Digital Connectivity Technology Program (DCTP): Project Implementation Completion. 🎉

Through DCTP, organizations across Oregon have expanded access to internet-enabled technology and Wi-Fi at no cost to community members who need it the most. Projects have established and enhanced public computing labs, device lending programs, and public Wi-Fi access, helping communities connect to the digital tools and resources they need for work, education, health care, and everyday life.

Read the press release: https://biznews.oregon.gov/acton/rif/14786/s-0a3b-2610/-/l-unified-contacts:dfd5/l-unified-contacts/showPreparedMessage?sid=TV2:GbRPCkEti