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A Message From Our Chair

Thursday, October 16, 2025

A Message from Our Chair, Dietrich Wieland, Principal and President at Mackenzie Last week, Greater Portland Inc’s Board Chair Dietrich Wieland, Principal and President at Mackenzie, joined GPI and Oregon partners at SEMICON West in Phoenix, the leading global conference for the semiconductor industry. The Oregon delegation included Oregon State Rep. Daniel Nguyen, Business Oregon, City of Hillsboro, City of Gresham, Oregon State University, Silicon Forest Partnership, and HP, Inc. and spent 4 days in Phoenix meeting with companies, attending panels, and connecting with peers from across the country.  This was Dietrich's first time attending and he came away with a deeper...

Oregon, Washington Go Big on Workforce Development

Tuesday, March 04, 2025

Companies looking for regions where the workforce is growing have new reasons to consider the Pacific Northwest, as both Oregon and Washington have made significant investments in expanding the regional talent pool in recent years. In Oregon Future Ready Oregon (FRO), a once-in-a-generation $200 million investment approved in 2022, was designed to address economic challenges brought on by the pandemic and support high-demand industries, including healthcare, IT, advanced manufacturing, and construction. The program has accelerated training expansion, enabling faster access to career coaching, scholarships, and work-based learning opportunities. Workforce Development Boards, including Worksystems and Clackamas Workforce Partnership, received initial FRO funding in...

ADI Expands Oregon Semiconductor Workforce with a People-first Vision for the Future

Monday, January 06, 2025

Download and Read a PDF of the Story Here. ©2024 Analog Devices, Inc.Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI), a global semiconductor leader, is making an exciting stride to contribute to the talent hub in Beaverton, Oregon, emphasizing the company's commitment to strengthening the regional workforce and supporting the broader U.S. technology sector. “We’re committed to building the talent that will drive the productivity of our new facilities,” said José García, Managing Director of Wafer Fab Sustainability and Autonomous Enterprise. “Having the right skilled workforce is essential for turning our cutting-edge fabs into thriving hubs of innovation.” Beaverton: A Thriving Tech Ecosystem ©2024 Analog Devices, Inc.Beaverton...

Claiborne Shares New Playbook to Attract Business

Tuesday, October 01, 2024

photo by Sharon ThomasRemarks of Greater Portland Inc President and CEO Monique ClaiborneGreater Portland Economic SummitSeptember 24, 2024If you know me, you know I love sports.  The thrill of competition, the drive to excel, the relentless pursuit of victory—these are all things that resonate deeply with me.  And I see it all around me.  I see it when our region’s companies go head-to-head to recruit top talent.  I see it when they innovate, pushing boundaries to stay ahead of competitors.And I see it when our region’s stakeholders strategize and collaborate to ensure that Greater Portland is not just in the...

NSI Expands Sherwood branch of Silicon Forest

Monday, June 03, 2024

New industrial space grows regional leadership in the semiconductor manufacturing supply chainView and share a PDF version of this article here.At the heart of the Silicon Forest are people, and at semiconductor industry supplier NSI in Sherwood, you can’t miss them. Before anyone enters the pristine manufacturing floor, they walk by portraits of all 90 NSI employees. They are the ones manufacturing critical components essential to the production of semiconductors and solar panels – some across the Pacific, some a few miles away in Hillsboro. Those faces were also at the center of NSI’s biggest business decision in its history.In 2022,...

Portland’s national rise previewed by new data at Greater Portland Inc

Tuesday, April 09, 2024

CBRE data shows signs of optimism for regional comeback  PORTLAND, Ore. (April 8, 2024) – Oregonians looking for signs of the region’s economic comeback got a dose of optimism Monday with new data from commercial real estate firm CBRE highlighting Greater Portland’s ready workforce, high concentration of life sciences talent, and global reputation for high quality food and beverage products. Speaking at the first ever Greater Portland Economic Nexus event organized by Greater Portland Inc, and sponsored by Business Oregon and NAIOP, CBRE vice chairman Eric Stavriotis shared analysis of how Portland could leverage its advantages to reattract business to the region. Source: CBREA...

Claiborne Urges legislature to invest in marketing Oregon open for business (The Oregonian)

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

As the 2024 Oregon short legislative session opened, local mayors and Greater Portland Inc CEO Monique Claiborne spoke to the Oregonian about the importance of investing in marketing Oregon to be sure companies can be best attracted to the region. Greater Portland Inc, as part of its support for improving the region and turning recommendations from Gov. Kotek’s Central City Task Force into law, is urging the state to dedicate at least $5M to market the Portland image to those outside the state. “It signals from the top to the bottom that we value what’s here and we want other folks to...

GPI’s “Meet the Mayors” showcases government, business partnership (Fox 12)

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Mayor Travis Stovall of Gresham and Mayor Jaimie Fender of King City at 2024 Meet the MayorsFox 12 covered Greater Portland Inc’s “Meet the Mayors” event in January, including interviews with Mayor Lacy Beaty of Beaverton, Mayor Joe Buck of Lake Oswego, and Mayor Travis Stovall of Gresham. The story, from reporter Drew Marine, touched on how GPI’s work in partnership with state and federal government helped draw some of the first Chips Act dollars to Microchip in Gresham.  “Part of the reason why we were able to attract those dollars here to Gresham at the federal level was the fact that...

Microchip: A Case Study of Oregon’s Public-Private Partnerships for Economic Development

Friday, February 16, 2024

 When the U.S. Department of Commerce announced in January the first federal chips program dollars would go to Microchip’s semiconductor fab in Gresham it was a symbol of strength for the Silicon Forest. Home to one in seven U.S. semiconductor jobs against a backdrop of a national priority to increase domestic chips production, Oregon reaffirmed its leadership in the sector. (For a PDF version of this case study, click here.)And Microchip, expected to receive $72 million from the federal chips program, is now proof positive of what can happen when government works with business to help spur economic developmentBut it didn’t necessarily start...

GPI's Monique Claiborne Appears in the Oregonian

Thursday, December 07, 2023

European alternative energy companies weigh NW expansions, says Portland booster on trade missionGPI CEO, Monique Claiborne, attended a 7-day mission to Brussels and Madrid hosted by the European Union. During this mission, she engaged in vital discussions with 10 US and 27 EU leaders on global economic vitality, spanning topics from renewable energy to international policy and highlighting Greater Portland's strategic appeal. The following article appeared in The Oregonian. At least three European alternative-energy companies are considering new manufacturing operations in or around Portland, according to representatives of an economic development group who met with the companies on a trade mission this...

Portland Government Makeover: Paving the Way for Business Competitiveness

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

Portland Government Makeover: Paving the Way for Business CompetitivenessThe following is an article written by Monique Claiborne, President & CEO, GPI which appeared in Yahoo Finance and Market Watch. In the bustling landscape of economic development, Greater Portland Inc is delighted to witness the remarkable transformation that Portland's city government is undergoing, driven by a voter-approved overhaul that is set to elevate the Portland region's competitiveness for businesses eyeing expansion on the West Coast.  The recent resounding City Council endorsement of a comprehensive bureaucratic makeover, complemented by the introduction of the innovative Downtown Business Incentives Credit Program, an expanded enterprise zone, and a forward-thinking exploration...

Greater Portland Inc announces QPO's Expansion in Tualatin, Oregon

Thursday, September 14, 2023

The following is an interview conducted by Monique Claiborne, President & CEO, GPI which appeared in Yahoo Finance and PRNewswire. The renewable energy storage system company, QPO, made a deliberate decision to choose Oregon, a move that underscores the state's flourishing business environment, strategic benefits, and exceptional quality of life.With 98% of the lithium-ion battery market currently concentrated in China, QPO's move takes on even greater significance. Bolstered by capital injections from private investment firm, J. Lu Investments Q, Cheng Pin Investment, incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and support from Yulon Group, the largest Taiwanese OEM, QPO is poised...

Northwest Silicon Forest making moves to add to West Coast semiconductor ecosystem

Wednesday, September 13, 2023

Article by GPI President and CEO, Monique Claiborne, and featured in Fierce Electronics. As communities across the United States face a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure federal CHIPS Act funds for the expansion and relocation of semiconductor operations, Oregon has made major state law changes to jump to the front of the line. The Portland metro area already hosts Intel’s global R&D operations and a clustering of 200- and 300-mm wafer fabs supported by a vast network of suppliers.Known as the Silicon Forest, the Portland region is uniquely positioned to attract semiconductor R&D investment in the years ahead due to its legacy...

Investor News: Impacts of 2023 Oregon Legislative Session on Tax Credits and Incentives

Tuesday, August 15, 2023

Oregon offers numerous tax incentives for businesses considering expansion or relocation in the state.These programs, however, require many qualification considerations, with some updates being passed during the 2023 legislative session, including the following programs:Enterprise zone (EZ)Long-term rural enterprise zone (LTREZ)Strategic investment program (SIP)Oregon Investment Advantage (OIA)Click here to learn more. Contact GPI investor, Moss Adams, if you have questions about business incentives, specifically site selection projects or how to align your business expansion strategy with incentives.Rob O'Neill, Partner, State & Local Tax ServicesColin Quill, Senior Manager, State & Local Tax Services  

Signed CHIPS Act a boon to Greater Portland's Silicon Forest

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

President Joe Biden signed a $280 billion bipartisan bill to boost domestic high-tech manufacturing Tuesday, part of his administration’s push to boost U.S. competitiveness over China.  Flanked by scores of lawmakers, union officials, local politicians and business leaders, Biden feted the legislation, a core part of his economic agenda that will incentivize investments in the American semiconductor industry in an effort to ease U.S. reliance on overseas supply chains for critical, cutting-edge goods.  “The future of the chip industry is going to be made in America,” Biden said in a sweltering Rose Garden ceremony Tuesday, referring...

SICDRONE to Open a New Manufacturing Facility at Scappoose Airport

Thursday, July 28, 2022

COLUMBIA CITY, OREGON – July 28, 2022 – Robotic aircraft systems manufacturer SICDRONE is set to open a new facility in Scappoose by the fourth quarter of 2022. The company signed a license agreement for 6,000 square feet of corporate hangar space at the Scappoose Airport with plans for a future lease agreement. The facility will be dedicated to the design and advanced manufacturing of unmanned aircraft systems for military applications, commercial offshore wind farms, and first responder drone programs. SICDRONE anticipates hiring between five to ten software, mechanical, and electrical engineers, along with...

Finnish Company SIQ Basketball Chooses Portland for New HQ

Tuesday, July 05, 2022

"SIQ Basketball, which makes a technology to give amateur and pickup players the same technological insights as the pros, is the latest startup to pick Portland for a headquarters. CEO Erik Anderson grew up in Los Angeles and went to school at Oregon State University. When he took over the startup in January 2021 he saw the opportunity to return to the Beaver State. The company’s roots go back about 10 years but its current iteration has been around for five, Anderson said. It was started in Finland by Finnish former professional basketball player Harri Hohteri, who also...

Study: Oregon's athletic, outdoor, team and recreation ecosystem generates $29 billion per year

Thursday, June 30, 2022

Portland Business Alliance and Coalition Partners Unveil the Largest Economic Study of Its Kind in the State   The new report showcases how Oregon is winning nationally in the Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation Ecosystem. CONTACT: Vanessa Briseño  Senior Director, Strategic Communications, Portland Business Alliance news@portlandalliance.com or call (503) 224-8684? The Portland Business Alliance, in partnership with a coalition of regional and statewide business associations, is pleased to announce the release of “Oregon: The State of Sport,” a new economic study that highlights Oregon’s competitive advantage and the economic power that the Athletic,...

Arc'teryx Opens Portland Footwear Office, Focuses on Mountain-Ready Performance

Wednesday, June 29, 2022

Arc'teryx prides itself on living in—and creating for—the mountain environment. Based in the Coast Mountains of North Vancouver, B.C., since 1989, Arc'teryx now has an additional home, this for footwear. And in Portland, arguably the global capital of performance footwear and only 300 miles from Arc'teryx headquarters. While Arc'teryx has had footwear in its catalog for years, by opening a Portland office solely focused on the category, the brand aims to create new mountain-ready offerings and craft footwear silhouettes that become as iconic as the Alpha jacket. "What is drastically different this time is the amount of resources...

David Pachter of JumpCrew featured in GPI's Groundbreakers interview series

Thursday, June 16, 2022

In the first episode of our series Groundbreakers: Leaders of the New Economy, Greater Portland Inc CEO Monique Claiborne interviews David Pachter, co-founder and executive chairman of JumpCrew, and author of "Remote Leadership: How to Accelerate Achievement and Create a Community in a Work-From-Home World." JumpCrew is an outsourced sales and marketing firm based in Nashville. Watch the interview on our YouTube channel to hear how David, a self-described "slacker-to-CEO," grew his company from two employees to 400 in less than 5 years. He also reveals what it means to be a successful leader in a remote-work...

World Athletics Championships Put Oregon’s Tracktown USA on the Global Stage

Wednesday, June 15, 2022

  The World Athletics Championships are coming to the United States for the first time ever. This extraordinary showcase featuring 2,000 athletes from 200 nations will take center stage at the University of Oregon’s Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon. While the World Athletics Championships typically take place in larger cities, Eugene’s unique track and field legacy made it an ideal location for the 2022 championships. Multiple legends of the sport – including Bill Bowerman, Steve Prefontaine, Bill Dellinger, and Ashton Eaton – have all called Hayward Field home. The first artificial track was laid at the...

Oregon chip industry supplier will quadruple its space with new Sherwood factory

Tuesday, May 03, 2022

A Tigard company that supplies gas and chemical equipment to Oregon semiconductor manufacturers plans to quadruple its factory footprint this year by moving to a new site in Sherwood. The company, NSI, is moving from two buildings with a combined 15,000 square feet of manufacturing to a newly built, 62,000-square foot plant. NSI said the new site will “dramatically increase” its production and enable it to meet rapidly increasing demand. The company described the expansion as a “multiple million-dollar investment.” Read the full article from The Oregonian.  GPI was proud to support our partners...

Q1 Greater Portland Market Insights Report Now Available

Monday, April 18, 2022

Greater Portland Inc is proud to present its Q1 Greater Portland Market Insights Report, featuring bi-state regional data on employment, business expansions and industrial and office activity. As the only public-private organization dedicated to recruiting businesses to the entire region, the GPI team is constantly seeking out key community, economic and real estate data. We want to share our research and insights to ensure our partners are informed about market conditions, trends and activity impacting our economy and our region's ability to grow, attract and retain quality jobs and businesses. Our Q1 report was unveiled at our March 30...

Viewpoint: Why Oregon Should Be Concerned About Intel's Ohio Expansion

Thursday, January 27, 2022

By Monique Claiborne, President & CEO, Greater Portland Inc This op-ed appeared in the Portland Business Journal. In the last six months, Intel has announced two $20 billion expansions: One at an existing Arizona complex, and one in Ohio, which did not have an existing chip manufacturing presence. If we weren’t concerned before, we should be now. Oregon is the heart of Intel’s research and development operation (for now), but there are lessons to be learned from Ohio’s recent success. If we still want to claim the semiconductor space as a competitive key industry, we must act urgently...

New Amazon Sort Center in Canby to Employ Over 500

Friday, September 17, 2021

AMAZON ANNOUNCES PLANS TO EXPAND OPERATIONS IN CANBY OREGON WITH NEW SORT CENTER  New Amazon facility will create more than 500 jobs in the Canby region with an average starting wage of $18 per hour, comprehensive benefits, and longer-term career opportunities for local residents  Amazon announced today it will open a new sort center in 2023 in the City of Canby. More than 500 new employees will help sort and ship packages at the 517,000 square-foot facility for final delivery to customers.  “I look toward a future of building a relationship with Amazon – just as I...

Wilsonville Adopts First WIN Zone to Support Twist Bioscience's $70M Investment

Tuesday, August 17, 2021

City of Wilsonville NEWS RELEASEFor Immediate ReleaseAugust 17, 2021    CONTACT: Bill Evans, Communications and Marketing Manager 503-570-1502; evans@ci.wilsonville.or.usCity Council Adopts First WIN Zone to Support Twist Bioscience’s $70 Million Capital Investment in WilsonvilleWILSONVILLE, Ore. — At the August 16, 2021, meeting of the Wilsonville City Council, the Council approved the adoption of the Twist Bioscience Wilsonville Investment Now (WIN) Zone, a new 4.4-acre site-specific Urban Renewal Area at the Parkway Industry Center (26600 SW Parkway Dr.). This economic development agreement, the first established under WIN administrative rules adopted last year, provides property-tax rebates to incentivize new capital investment and family-wage jobs...

Twist BioScience Doubles Wilsonville Lease, Qualifies for New Tax Incentive Program

Thursday, June 17, 2021

Twist Bioscience has doubled down on its investment in Greater Portland, exercising its right of first refusal to nearly double its "Factory of the Future" in Wilsonville from 110,000 square feet to 190,000 square feet. The facility, at ParkWorks Industry Center on Southwest Parkway Avenue, will house as many as 400 bioscience workers. The new office is slated to become operational in 2022.  Twist, based in San Francisco, is a synthetic biology and genomics company whose proprietary technology enables it to manufacture synthetic DNA by “writing” the DNA on a silicon chip. The larger facility will support Twist's rapid...

High-Tech Apparel Firm Oros Secures Federal Funding, Expands in Portland

Thursday, February 18, 2021

Portland-based outwear company OROS is expanding its operations after securing federal funding in the budget passed by Congress earlier this year. OROS uses NASA technology to create technical apparel that can withstand extreme temperatures. The defense research & development funding will enable the U.S. military to hire the firm to create next-generation protective apparel for soldiers. Greater Portland Inc assisted OROS in securing the federal funding, which will allow the firm to hire more scientists, researchers and designers in Portland to perform the cutting-edge research and development required of a federal contractor.  The company relocated its headquarters from Cincinnati...

Genentech Doubles Down on Greater Portland with $175M Hillsboro Investment

Friday, February 12, 2021

Biotechnology giant Genentech is set to open its newest facility in Greater Portland by the end of 2021's first quarter. The $175-million, 130,000-square-foot facility in Hillsboro will be dedicated to the commercialization of individualized medicines, according to the Portland Business Journal.  South San Francisco-based Genentech said the building represents a “$175 million investment in new technologies and platforms that will allow us to scale our manufacturing capacity and deliver on our vision of providing the right treatment to the right patient at the right time. It will also drive job creation, as we anticipate hiring more than 100 people...

Microsoft Joins Apple, Intel in Grater Portland's Semiconductor Sector

Tuesday, February 02, 2021

Microsoft just made a key investment in Greater Portland: Its new office in Hillsboro will be its regional engineering hub.  "Microsoft is the latest tech giant to expand in the Portland area and tap the semiconductor and hardware talent pool that has grown around Intel's massive presence," the Portland Business Journal reported. "Apple Inc., which is now developing its own chips, recently leased space in Portland's Central Eastside Industrial District."  Microsoft Engineer Selim Bilgin, who spent more than 20 years at Intel and was most recently vice president and general manager for Intel validation engineering, will lead the...

Twist Bioscience's 'Factory of the Future' in Wilsonville to Add 400 Jobs

Tuesday, January 12, 2021

Greater Portland Inc is excited to announce that Twist Bioscience is building a “Factory of the Future” in Wilsonville, adding as many as 400 jobs to Greater Portland. This marks GPI’s largest business recruitment project to date, in terms of jobs, and it shows that the region remains an attractive investment even in the midst of a global pandemic.  Twist, based in San Francisco, is a synthetic biology and genomics company whose proprietary technology enables it to manufacture synthetic DNA by “writing” the DNA on a silicon chip. Applications of this unique technology include synthetic genes, tools for next-generation...

Greater Portland Ranked No. 1 Best Place to Live on the West Coast

Thursday, October 15, 2020

Greater Portland is the best place to live on the West Coast, according to a new ranking from U.S. News & World Report. To compile the annual list, U.S. News analyzed the 150 most populous metro areas and ranked them according to value, desirability, job market and quality of life. Greater Portland scored high in all of these categories, and nabbed a near-perfect desirability score. That score, calculated from a survey of 3,000 people across the U.S. conducted in August 2020, shows that the Portland area remains a very attractive place to live. Overall, the report ranked Greater Portland...

Adidas' Expanded North American Headquarters Nears Completion

Wednesday, September 30, 2020

Adidas employees will start moving into the company's newly expanded headquarters in North Portland starting in October, the Portland Business Journal reports.  The expanded Portland campus will "more than double the size of the company's North American headquarters and provide better showroom space in which to display products for large accounts," further cementing Greater Portland's identity as the footwear design capital of the world.  The company broke ground on the campus expansion in 2018, and construction is slated to be complete in 2021. "It's always been our aspiration to have one centralized hub for our Portland employees,...

Beaverton Healthcare Startup GrowthPlug Wins TiE50 Award for Rapid Growth

Wednesday, September 09, 2020

GrowthPlug, an SaaS startup accelerating patient growth and automating front desk operations for healthcare practices, on Tuesday announced that it had been selected as a 2020 TiE50 Winner in the prestigious TiE50 Awards Program. The awards competition is a program of TiEcon, the world's largest conference for tech entrepreneurs.  According to its announcement, GrowthPlug was recognized for its rapid growth, and "is witnessing tremendous customer interest during these uncertain times as healthcare practices are exploring new ways to operate and connect with their patient base." GrowthPlug says hundreds of healthcare practices across the US use its platform to manage...

Intel Unveils Powerful New Chip Made in Greater Portland's Silicon Forest

Thursday, September 03, 2020

Intel on Wednesday unveiled its newest processor, dubbed Tiger Lake. The new chip, made specifically for laptops and PCs, enables higher performance and better power management. The microprocessor was made right here in Greater Portland, maintaining our region's reputation as a world leader in the semiconductor industry.  According to The Oregonian, "Intel crafted Tiger Lake at its Jones Farm campus in Hillsboro (10 miles west of Portland) and the first chips are already coming off the line at the company’s Ronler Acres factory complex nearby. More than 1,000 Oregon employees worked to develop the chip since 2016, an especially...

GPEDD Awarded $400,000 CARES Act Recovery Assistance Grant

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 26, 2020 Media Contact Anna Marum Greater Portland Inc anna.marum@greaterportlandinc.com 971-339-2012 GPEDD awarded $400,000 CARES Act Recovery Assistance grant The EDA funds will be used to support a recovery plan for the region. PORTLAND, Ore. – Greater Portland Economic Development District (GPEDD) is pleased to announce that it has received a $400,000 CARES Act Recovery Assistance grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA). GPEDD is housed within Greater Portland Inc, the regional economic development organization.  GPEDD was among economic development districts throughout...

Portland Pet Food Company Goes Global Through Deal With Japanese Retailer

Tuesday, August 25, 2020

Kate McCarron, founder of Portland Pet Food Company, is a recipient of GPI's Growing Small Businesses Globally export assistance scholarships. McCarron was recently featured in the Portland Business Journal, excerpted below.  Portland Pet Food Company announced last month that it plans to sell its natural, human-grade dog meals and treats in natural food and speciality pet stores in Japan.  “This is a huge next step for our company, and we are so thrilled to now be selling our products internationally,” Kate McCarron, founder of Portland Pet Food Company said in a press release. “As shopping habits continue to...

GPI Featured by Brookings as Leader in Regional Economic Development

Friday, February 14, 2020

Greater Portland Inc was featured in a Brookings Metro piece on the importance of regional collaboration in attracting foreign direct investment. The article emphasizes a key point: scale matters in global competitiveness efforts, and a region carries a lot more weight than a single city.  "Investors rarely pay attention to city borders," the piece says. "Global competition should incentivize a region’s stakeholders to work together and project a common identity to the outside business community."  Brookings highlights Greater Portland Inc and our work with our partners as an example of successful regional collaboration: "Economic development organizations oftentimes establish...

Apple Latest Big-Name Tech Firm to Expand in Portland

Tuesday, January 28, 2020

The Portland Business Journal reports that Apple is expanding its presence in Portland with a new office located in the Central Eastside Industrial District. Apple's employment board lists 30 Portland positions, many for engineering jobs, the report says. "Portland has become a popular outpost for technology companies headquartered in Seattle and the Bay Area. Google plans to completely move into two floors of the Meier & Frank building by 2021. Amazon in August opened a second office downtown near the AWS Elemental headquarters. "Airbnb, the short-term rental company with approximately 400 Portland employees, in July expanded by 10,000 square...

On Footwear Company Chooses Portland For North American Headquarters

Wednesday, January 15, 2020

On, a Swiss footwear company, has joined Nike and Adidas in siting a headquarters office in Portland. According to The Oregonian, the fast-growing company moved its North American headquarters to Portland from Clearwater, Florida after struggling to find qualified talent there.  Caspar Coppetti, one of the three Swiss friends who founded the brand, praised Greater Portland's abundance of footwear industry talent. “Portland is the Silicon Valley of sportswear,” he said.  Now the company is in hiring mode, as it grows its Portland office from 43 to 71. Read the full story here.

GPI Hosts Deloitte Site Selectors – Key Takeaways

Thursday, October 23, 2025

This month, Greater Portland Inc hosted Deloitte Consulting’s Global Location Strategy team, whose members advise Fortune 500 companies on where to expand and invest.Over three days, Deloitte’s 15-person team explored the region, from Adidas North America and Analog Devices to the Columbia River Gorge, meeting employers, workers, and civic leaders to assess Greater Portland’s readiness for growth.Their visit culminated in a Portland Business Journal feature, “Deloitte site selection team finds lots to like on Portland visit,” where Principal Darin Beulow shared that the region has “really good bones” and “a lot going for it”— diverse industries, talent, creativity, and an...

Greater Portland Inc. hosts South Korean startups in hopes of getting ground floor expansions

Wednesday, September 03, 2025

I’m proud to share that Greater Portland Inc (GPI) successfully positioned Portland as the U.S. entry point for a cohort of ten Korean cleantech startups. The delegation will visit our region September 2–5 to explore GPI’s Soft-Land Program, with the goal of evaluating Portland as a base for their U.S. expansion.This four-day program—organized in partnership with the Gyeonggi Center for Creative Economy and Innovation (GCCEI)—marks the first of its kind. It’s a bold step in positioning Portland as a gateway for international clean energy investment.The delegation, based at CENTRL Office, will:Connect with Oregon’s investment community through an Investor Roundtable &...

Success Story: Columbia County

Saturday, May 17, 2025

Available industrial land, innovative R&D, and a new manufacturing workforce training center bring new opportunity for business.Columbia County, just north of Portland, has been at heart of the region’s manufacturing since the 19th century.Here they made cobblestones for Portland’s first city streets and U.S. Navy ships for the first world war. Now Columbia County is making a new future with a rising new workforce, trading yesteryear’s timber milling  for advanced manufacturing with new metal alloys and computer-aided design.“Students are deciding as early as 4th grade, especially girls, if they will go into college or pursue a career in STEM or...

Oregon, Washington Go Big on Workforce Development

Wednesday, March 05, 2025

Oregon, Washington Go Big on Workforce DevelopmentCompanies looking for regions where the workforce is growing have new reasons to consider the Pacific Northwest, as both Oregon and Washington have made significant investments in expanding the regional talent pool in recent years.In OregonFuture Ready Oregon (FRO), a once-in-a-generation $200 million investment approved in 2022, was designed to address economic challenges brought on by the pandemic and support high-demand industries, including healthcare, IT, advanced manufacturing, and construction. The program has accelerated training expansion, enabling faster access to career coaching, scholarships, and work-based learning opportunities. Workforce Development Boards, including Worksystems and Clackamas Workforce...

Greater Portland Inc Celebrates SVI Electronics’ Expansion into the Pacific Northwest with Major Economic Impacts

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJanuary 21, 2025Greater Portland Inc Celebrates SVI Electronics’ Expansion into the Pacific Northwest with Major Economic ImpactsPortland, OR – Greater Portland Inc proudly announces the expansion of SVI Electronics, a Thailand-based leader in Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS), to Vancouver, Washington, marking the company’s first U.S. manufacturing presence. This strategic move underscores the Greater Portland region’s position as a global hub for innovation, economic opportunity, and world-class talent.SVI Electronics will occupy 46,946 square feet at the Vancouver Innovation Center and initially employ 100 team members, with plans to grow to more than 200 jobs in later phases. The company’s...

Progressive Oregon has a new Business-Friendly Posture

Thursday, April 11, 2024

PORTLAND, Ore., April 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek signed into law a raft of new legislation in recent days that shows Oregon squarely positioning the greater Portland area for a historic economic comeback.While the legislative action to end Oregon's legalization of hard drugs has grabbed the most national headlines, the governor's signature on bills to expand the state's semiconductor workforce, further industrial land readiness, and invest in sports all show a state government leaning heavily into economic development."Corporations seek fresh industrial land, high-value talent, and a high quality of life, and the governor's actions this year, including ending...

Op-ed: How Oregon's private colleges lay the groundwork for the state's future successes

Wednesday, June 28, 2023

This op-ed, written by Greater Portland Inc CEO Monique Claiborne, appeared in the Portland Business Journal.In the realm of economic development, it is vital that we recognize and harness the immense influence that academic institutions wield over the prosperity of states and regions.Oregon's private, nonprofit colleges and universities, in particular, have emerged as powerful drivers of economic growth, laying the foundation for a thriving future. As the CEO of Greater Portland Inc, I see the pivotal role that these institutions play in shaping our local economy, attracting and retaining talent, and creating a positive net impact on the state economy.The economic...

OP-ED: Rehabilitating Portland's image

Thursday, June 08, 2023

This op-ed, written by Greater Portland Inc CEO Monique Claiborne, appeared in the Portland Business Journal."We are asking Oregon lawmakers to consider a $5 million investment to implement (a marketing) strategy."Portland has had a rough couple of years and its reputation has taken a beating. Multnomah County’s population has declined in each of the past two years, a phenomenon that one Portland State University researcher attributes to an aging population leaving for the suburbs, reputational damage and the rise in homelessness as reported by The Oregonian/OregonLive’s Jamie Goldberg.Businesses and their workers choose not to locate in our region for some of the...

Research Study Provides Insight for Repositioning Greater Portland as a Great Place for Businesses

Thursday, June 08, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 25, 2023Research Study Provides Insight for Repositioning Greater Portland as a Great Place for BusinessA recent survey commissioned by Greater Portland Inc (GPI) has provided insight into how the region can move forward to attract more economic activity and growth.   Greater Portland Inc (GPI) commissioned a study to assess current perceptions of Greater Portland and the best ways to grow the region. As part of the study, Development Counsellors International (DCI) performed a media audit on the economic development stories about the Portland region, held round table discussions with key business leaders, facilitated virtual focus groups, and conducted...

Oregon Solicits Interest from Semiconductor Firms for CHIPS Act Funding

Wednesday, March 29, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMarch 29, 2023 State of Oregon Solicits Interest from Semiconductor Firms for CHIPS Act FundingBusiness Oregon is seeking written interest from semiconductor firms that would consider applying for a portion of the $190 million in funding expected to be available for Oregon semiconductor firms through Senate Bill 4.The funding is intended to help Oregon firms expand in the state and take advantage of the additional federal funding that will be available via the CHIPs Act. In August of 2022, President Biden signed the bipartisan CHIPs and Science Act into law that is intended to spur investment in U.S. advanced...

Greater Portland Inc's planned marketing campaign featured in Portland Business Journal

Tuesday, March 21, 2023

Portland Business Journal reporter Malia Spencer interviewed Greater Portland Inc President & CEO Monique Claiborne as part of the paper's Advancing Portland series. GPI is launching a large-scale marketing campaign to recruit more businesses to the region and grow our economy. If you'd like to learn more about our campaign or would like to get involved, please contact Jocelyn Sanchez, GPI's Senior Manager of Stakeholder Relations.Here is the article as it appeared in the Portland Business Journal:This story is part of Advancing Portland, a series rooted in data collected from a Business Journal subscriber survey conducted in late January. Survey...

14 mayors share legislative, economic updates at GPI's annual Meet the Mayors event

Thursday, March 02, 2023

 Fourteen Portland-area mayors met on Thursday, Feb. 23, to share their legislative and economic priorities for the year, which included addressing homelessness/housing supply, attracting industry, boosting climate resiliency and supporting workers through access to childcare and broadband.The annual meeting was hosted by the Metropolitan Mayors' Consortium and Greater Portland Inc’s Small City Consortium, and was sponsored by Portland General Electric. A recording of the conversation is available here, with the sections for each mayor’s update linked in the video description. The following mayors were in attendance:Beaverton Mayor Lacey BeatyDurham Mayor Gery SchiradoForest Grove Mayor Malynda WenzlGladstone Mayor Michael MilchHillsboro Mayor Steve...

GPI CEO Monique Claiborne wins national 40 Under 40 in Economic Development award

Thursday, February 02, 2023

Monique Claiborne, President & CEO of Greater Portland Inc, has been awarded the 2023 Economic Development 40 Under 40 Award, a national award recognizing rising stars under 40 years old in the economic development industry. The awards program is hosted by Development Counsellors International (DCI), a New York-based integrated marketing firm that works with economic development and travel organizations around the globe, and Jorgenson Consulting, a leading national executive search firm serving organizations in non-profit, economic, and community development industries. An independent selection committee of six economic development leaders and site selection consultants evaluated nominations based on demonstration of...

Twist Bioscience ships first products from 'Factory of the Future' in Wilsonville

Thursday, February 02, 2023

Twist Bioscience has shipped the first products from its second production facility, the Factory of the Future, located in Wilsonville, Oregon.“These initial shipments of Twist Oligo Pools and Gene Fragments are the start of what we believe will be significant capacity and revenue growth enabled by the Factory of the Future,” said Emily M. Leproust, Twist CEO and co-founder. “As we continue to expand initial manufacturing from this new facility, we will add genes, with the same rapid turnaround time as that of South San Francisco. We are also working longer term toward new product introductions supported by the additional...

17 Reasons to Move Your Business to Portland, Oregon

Tuesday, January 31, 2023

  Greater Portland is on the rise. Its thriving economy, highly educated workforce and attractive cost of living make it a great place to start or grow a business. The region's strategic location, strong transportation system and abundant natural resources make it an ideal place to call home. Here are 17 reasons to move your business to Portland, Oregon. Growing labor market: With 7.3% employment growth in 2021, Greater Portland is the fourth-fastest growing labor market in the U.S., according to an analysis of federal data for the 100 largest metros by The Business...

Jan Mason named chair of Greater Portland Economic Development District

Thursday, December 15, 2022

Jan Mason named chair of Greater Portland Economic Development District Mason is Director of Communications and Equitable Development at Portland design firm Mackenzie, 

Oregon State researchers take key step toward improving lives of people with epilepsy

Tuesday, November 29, 2022

CORVALLIS, Ore. – Researchers in the Oregon State University College of Engineering have taken a key step toward improving the lives of patients with epilepsy by developing a sensor system for quickly testing their saliva to see if they have the correct level of anti-epileptic medicine in their system. The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health and published in the Journal of Applied Electrochemistry, are important because roughly 3.5 million people in the United States have epilepsy, including nearly half a million children, the authors note. “With further development, our system could be used to empower epilepsy patients by...

GPI's World Athletics Championships familiarization tour wins economic development award

Tuesday, November 22, 2022

Greater Portland Inc is proud to share that its familiarization tour, held in tandem with the 2022 World Athletics Championships, won an award for exceptional economic development marketing and promotions from OEDA, the Oregon Economic Development Association. (Full press release included below.) The location of this year's championships in Eugene, Oregon, offered an exceptional opportunity to showcase our region's prowess in the apparel and outdoor sector. GPI took full advantage of this opportunity, and hosted executives from targeted apparel and outdoor brands in Portland and Eugene for five days during the championships. Through roundtable discussions, tours and a...

OSU researcher seeking battery 'paradigm shift' wins $3M federal grant

Thursday, November 17, 2022

An Oregon State University researcher will use a $3 million federal grant to study a battery technology that avoids the use of elements that could come into short supply as electric vehicle adoption expands. Xiulei “David” Ji, professor of chemistry at Oregon State, will lead a team that includes researchers from Howard University, the University of Maryland and Vanderbilt University on the project. Growing demand for lithium-ion batteries that use nickel and cobalt, particularly for use in EVs, has raised concerns about the availability of those materials. Read the full article on the Portland Business Journal.

Meet the companies leading Portland’s sustainable apparel cluster

Tuesday, November 15, 2022

Footwear and apparel makers are becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of products that contain polyester-based and synthetic materials that will live on for centuries in landfills, unable to decompose. Portland is a footwear and apparel industry mecca, home to three industry leaders — Nike, Adidas and Columbia Sportswear — and other smaller startups. With so much talent in the city, several companies have risen as key players in what is now a sustainable apparel cluster in the Rose City. Jeffrey Jordan, son of Michael Jordan, and Tim Gobet, a 15-year Nike alum, recently launched Äktiiv, which...

CBC asks what B.C. cities can learn from Portland ending single-family zoning

Friday, November 11, 2022

As British Columbians prepare to welcome a new premier on Nov. 18, many are waiting to find out how much David Eby's proposal to end single-family zoning will help with the housing shortage. Eby, a former housing minister, became premier-designate in October after being acclaimed as leader of the New Democrats. He ended up as the only candidate for the job after the NDP disqualified challenger Anjali Appadurai. One of Eby's proposals is to increase density by allowing home builders to replace a single-family home with up to three units on the same footprint. Read the full article on CBC.ca 

Twist Bioscience sees impressive revenue growth as firm preps Wilsonville factory for new antibody discovery program

Thursday, November 10, 2022

Synthetic biology firm Twist Bioscience has seen its revenue expand quickly in recent years. According to a recent Forbes article, newly promoted President and COO Patrick Finn is on track to grow sales to $203 million for 2022, up from $2 million in 2016. This is good news for San Francisco-based Twist, which debuted on Nasdaq in 2018. Twist is leading the synthetic biology industry with its proprietary technology enables it to manufacture synthetic DNA by “writing” the DNA on a silicon chip. According to Forbes, "[Finn] joined Twist in 2015 in advance of the launch of its...

Portland, Multnomah County and Metro tax alignment to reduce business tax burden

Wednesday, November 09, 2022

In October, the City of Portland, Multnomah County, and Metro voted to pass a tax alignment effort, effective January 2023 tax year. According to Portland Business Alliance President Andrew Hoan, the agreement will help level the playing field for Greater Portland businesses. The changes will have several, positive impacts, he said. First, beginning in 2023, many businesses will likely see their tax burdens reduced. Second, thanks to a simpler and more user-friendly system, compliance will be easier. Third, companies outside the region will now help fund public services. Below is an opinion piece about the agreement that appeared...

Greater Portland Inc, Moss Adams discuss Oregon gubernatorial candidates

Wednesday, October 26, 2022

Oregon voters will elect a new governor on Nov. 8. Over the last several weeks, Monique Claiborne, president & CEO of Greater Portland Inc, the regional economic development organization, sat down with each of the three candidates in a series of interviews. The conversations cover key economic issues, including business recruitment and retention, restoring livability in Portland, top economic priorities, taxes and incentives, agency alignment and land-use policy. In our last video of the series, Greater Portland Inc President & CEO Monique Claiborne sits down with Ryan Kuenzi and Rob O’Neill of professional services firm Moss Adams to...

Tina Kotek talks industrial land, promoting Portland and trade in Q&A with Greater Portland Inc

Wednesday, October 19, 2022

Oregon voters will elect a new governor on Nov. 8. Over the last several weeks, Monique Claiborne, president & CEO of Greater Portland Inc, the regional economic development organization, sat down with each of the three candidates in a series of interviews. The conversations cover key economic issues, including business recruitment and retention, restoring livability in Portland, top economic priorities, taxes and incentives, agency alignment and land-use policy. Our third interview was with Tina Kotek, who served in the Oregon House of Representatives for 15 years, representing North and Northeast Portland. She was the speaker of...

GPI releases Q3 Greater Portland Market Insights Report

Friday, October 14, 2022

Greater Portland Inc is proud to present its Q3 Greater Portland Market Insights Report, featuring bi-state regional data on employment, business expansions and industrial and office activity. As the only public-private organization dedicated to recruiting businesses to the entire region, the GPI team is constantly seeking out key community, economic and real estate data.We want to share our research and insights to ensure our partners are informed about market conditions, trends and activity impacting our economy and our region's ability to grow, attract and retain quality jobs and businesses. Our Q3 report was unveiled at our Oct. 13 Q3 Greater...

Op-ed: Oregon leaders must prioritize CHIPS funding now

Friday, October 14, 2022

This op-ed, written by Greater Portland Inc CEO Monique Claiborne, appeared in the Portland Business Journal. Through the new CHIPS for America Fund, the federal government is offering $39 billion to incentivize one of Oregon’s most important industries, but we are on track to miss out if state leaders don’t act urgently. As the CEO of Greater Portland Inc, I lead efforts to recruit businesses and jobs to our region. According to the Oregon Business Council, Oregon employs 15% of the national semiconductor workforce. Intel employs over 22,000 at its Hillsboro campuses, its largest concentration of...

Betsy Johnson talks homelessness, reputation and business retention in Q&A with Greater Portland Inc

Wednesday, October 12, 2022

Oregon voters will elect a new governor on Nov. 8. Over the last several weeks, Monique Claiborne, president & CEO of Greater Portland Inc, the regional economic development organization, sat down with each of the three candidates in a series of interviews. The conversations cover key economic issues, including business recruitment and retention, restoring livability in Portland, top economic priorities, taxes and incentives, agency alignment and land-use policy. Our second interview was with Betsy Johnson, who served in the Oregon Legislature for 20 years, representing parts of Northwest Oregon. She is running for governor as an independent...

Christine Drazan talks political leverage, repealing Measure 110 and business recruitment in Q&A with Greater Portland Inc

Wednesday, October 05, 2022

Oregon voters will elect a new governor on Nov. 8. Over the last several weeks, Monique Claiborne, president & CEO of Greater Portland Inc, the regional economic development organization, sat down with each of the three candidates in a series of interviews. The conversations cover key economic issues, including business recruitment and retention, restoring livability in Portland, top economic priorities, taxes and incentives, agency alignment and land-use policy. Our first interview was with Christine Drazan, who served in the Oregon House of Representatives from 2019 to January of this year, representing parts of Clackamas County. She was House...

PSU Consultant RFQ for Regional Innovation Hub

Monday, September 12, 2022

PSU released a RFQ seeking a consultant to provide a needs assessment for a Regional Innovation Hub for the metro region. PSU received funding from Business Oregon to support this planning process. The hub was identified as a potential action in the recently adopted Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). GPI is proud to support PSU’s work on this project as one of 15 core partners. Responses are due Sept 21. Please feel free to share with any consultant colleagues or partners that may be interested.   Read the RFQ here.  

Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf to highlight importance of public-sector leadership at 2022 Greater Portland Economic Summit

Friday, September 09, 2022

­­ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Sept. 9, 2022 Media Contact Anna Marum Greater Portland Inc anna.marum@greaterportlandinc.com 971-339-2012 Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf to highlight importance of public-sector leadership at 2022 Greater Portland Economic Summit Tickets are still available for the Sept. 21 event. PORTLAND, Ore. – Greater Portland Inc (GPI) is pleased to announce its annual Greater Portland Economic Summit will be held Wednesday, Sept. 21, at the Hyatt Regency Portland at the Oregon Convention Center. This election year, the event’s theme is Beyond Bureaucracy: Leadership in Action, and the program will...

Oregon receiving $83M for small business support

Tuesday, August 23, 2022

Business Oregon, the state's economic development agency, is set to receive as much as $83.5 million through the federal State Small Business Credit Initiative Program, or SSBCI. According to The Oregonian, half the grant will go to programs that support early stage innovative companies, including venture capital and venture debt programs. The other half will fund programs to support Main Street and small manufacturing businesses with startup and expansion. These programs include a credit enhancement fund to increase lending limits, a construction loan insurance program and a real lender program to help extend the capital of community lenders...

City of Troutdale Announces RFQ for The Confluence at Troutdale Development

Friday, August 19, 2022

TROUTDALE, OREGON – The City of Troutdale Urban Renewal Agency is extending an invitation to visionary developers to submit their qualifications to design an entirely new riverfront district from the ground up at the gateway to the Columbia River Gorge.  The Confluence at Troutdale is a roughly 20-acre site including nearly 16 developable acres plus 3.4 acres dedicated for a public riverfront park and trail. It is strategically situated between historic Downtown Troutdale and I-84. The site is uniquely positioned at the nexus of natural and urban — the connection between the Portland Metro area and world-class outdoor recreation areas...

Semiconductor Task Force Report Sets the Stage for Unprecedented Expansion in the Industry

Wednesday, August 17, 2022

MEDIA ADVISORY August 17, 2022 Media Contacts: Andrew Desmond, andrew@orbusinesscouncil.org, (253) 677-3230 Bart Eberwein, eberweinb@gmail.com, (503) 880-7877   Semiconductor Task Force Report Sets the Stage for Unprecedented Expansion in the Industry (Hillsboro, OR) – Today, Senator Ron Wyden, Governor Kate Brown, Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, and Maria Pope, CEO of Portland General Electric, held a press conference to release the Oregon Semiconductor Competitiveness Task Force’s report. Since March, the Task Force has analyzed Oregon’s semiconductor industry and how it can continue to thrive, grow, and create prosperity and opportunity for all Oregonians...

GPI releases Q2 Greater Portland Market Insights Report

Wednesday, July 20, 2022

Greater Portland Inc is proud to present its Q2 Greater Portland Market Insights Report, featuring bi-state regional data on employment, business expansions and industrial and office activity. As the only public-private organization dedicated to recruiting businesses to the entire region, the GPI team is constantly seeking out key community, economic and real estate data.We want to share our research and insights to ensure our partners are informed about market conditions, trends and activity impacting our economy and our region's ability to grow, attract and retain quality jobs and businesses. Our Q2 report was unveiled at our July 19 Q2 Greater...

Meet the Greater Portland Inc Team

Tuesday, January 25, 2022

By Greater Portland Inc. Get to know the Greater Portland Inc team through a few of our favorite things. You can find staff contact information here. Brittany Bagent, VP of Strategy Tenure 2 years Hometown Cincinnati, Ohio Favorite Local Attraction Silver Falls State Park Favorite Local Restaurant La Moule If you could invite any three people to a dinner party, who would they be? Stephen Colbert, President Obama, and my (late) grandmother What are your favorite hobbies? Running, yoga, hiking, cooking, exploring the region with my family What’s your...

Five-year Economic Strategy Charts New Course for Greater Portland Region

Tuesday, November 09, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Dec. 9, 2021 Media Contacts Greater Portland Inc Anna Marum anna.marum@greaterportlandinc.com 971-339-2012 Metro Constantino Khalaf constantino.khalaf@oregonmetro.gov 503-545-6450 Five-year economic strategy charts new course for Greater Portland region The strategy from Greater Portland Inc and Metro identifies 44 action items to drive equitable growth. Public- and private-sector leaders are invited to review the actions and partner with a lead organization to support an action that complements their mission. Portland, Ore. – Greater Portland Inc and Metro are proud to present the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for the Greater Portland region. The strategy...

Port of Portland Expands Container Service

Wednesday, September 08, 2021

For Immediate Release • September 7, 2021  Susie Rantz • 503.415.6054 • susie.rantz@portofportland.com Port of Portland Welcomes New Marine Service to Terminal 6  Regional businesses and consumers will have more options to move products following pandemic supply chain issues  A year and a half after weekly container service returned to the Port of Portland’s Terminal 6 – thanks to South Korea-based carrier SM Line – more container service is coming to help address critical supply chain issues for local businesses, farmers and growers, and consumers.  The new business at Terminal 6 includes: An...

Meet Our Summit Keynote: Kofi Bonner, CEO of Detroit VC Firm Bedrock

Thursday, September 02, 2021

By Bedrock and Greater Portland Inc Kofi Bonner is the Chief Executive Officer at Bedrock, where he leads the full-service real estate company’s efforts to build thriving urban centers through transformational development, community partnerships and a commitment to support local small businesses. Kofi will be the keynote speaker at our Greater Portland Economic Summit, held virtually and in-person Sept. 30. Get your tickets here. Since its founding, Bedrock and its affiliates have invested and committed more than $5.6 billion to acquiring and developing more than 100 properties, including some of the most significant new developments...

GPI is Hiring: Business Development Representative

Wednesday, August 18, 2021

Join our team! Greater Portland Inc is hiring a full-time Business Development Representative to serve as a key team member to assist in attracting traded-sector companies to the Greater Portland region. Business Development Representative Department: Business Development  Reports to: VP of Business Development  FLSA Status: Exempt  Salary Range: $55,000 - $65,000  Physical Strength: Light (L) Position summary  The Business Development Representative serves as a key team member who assists with attracting traded sector companies to the Greater Portland region. You will support a broad spectrum of activities to promote quality job growth and...

Workforce Development is Crucial to Economic Health

Wednesday, May 12, 2021

This blog post originally appeared on Clackamas Workforce Partnership's website.  May 9-15 is Economic Development Week – an opportunity to take a moment to highlight local programs that create jobs, advance career opportunities, and increase the quality of life in communities everywhere. Especially now, as our region works together to help businesses and workers recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and last year’s wildfires, it more important than ever to highlight the close connection between economic development and workforce development. Greater Portland Inc (GPI) is a regional economic development partnership that provides support and services to companies seeking to...

GPI is Hiring: Engagement & Events Coordinator

Friday, April 23, 2021

Come join our team! Greater Portland Inc is hiring a full-time Engagement and Events Coordinator to provide value to our investors, convene our partners around relevant issues and elevate the GPI brand. ENGAGEMENT AND EVENTS COORDINATOR Reports to: Marketing and Communications Manager FSLA Status: Exempt Location: Remote/Portland                                                                                             Salary Range: $45,000-$50,000 DOE                         About Greater Portland Inc (GPI) We’re the region’s economic development organization working to attract new jobs and investment to the Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area. Our team is small but mighty, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork and entrepreneurial drive. We are...

Portland familiarization tour itinerary

Monday, April 12, 2021

See the itinerary here.

7 Proof Points For Greater Portland's Emerging Bioscience Sector

Tuesday, April 06, 2021

By Anna Marum Greater Portland's bioscience sector is booming. Genentech has expanded its operations here twice, and startups like AbSci and Twist Bioscience are growing quickly, thanks in part to large infusions of cash. Here's what local executives and industry experts had to say about the region's thriving bioscience cluster in our latest industry tour. On talent: "We've expanded in the region twice. And the reason for that is access to talent, whether it be attracting talent from our organization down in the Bay Area or from other parts around the country. Portland's a place that people want...

GPI is Hiring: Graphic Designer & Social Media Coordinator

Friday, March 05, 2021

Come join our team! Greater Portland Inc is hiring a part-time Graphic Designer & Social Media Coordinator to elevate Greater Portland's brand at a crucial time for our region.     GRAPHIC DESIGNER & SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Hours: 20-25/week Pay: $22-$25/hour DOE Location: Remote/Portland Position Reports to: Marketing & Communications Manager About Greater Portland Inc We’re the region’s economic development organization working to attract new jobs and investment to the Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area. Our team is small but mighty, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork and entrepreneurial drive. We...

Portland is a "Goldilocks Place" for Fintech Startups, Says Sila Money CEO Shamir Karkal

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Greater Portland is poised to be the next big hub for financial tech companies. During a Jan. 27 virtual industry tour, co-hosted by Greater Portland Inc and SelectUSA, local fintech CEOs and industry experts shared the many advantages of starting, moving and growing a business in Greater Portland: We've got talent: "You have a confluence of executive talent alongside still having this amazing technology expertise.” - David Nelsen, Bumped CEO Money goes further here: "With the cost of living and the cost of doing business, it’s more economical. We don’t have to raise as much capital as if...

Monique Claiborne Selected to Lead Greater Portland Inc

Wednesday, February 03, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Feb. 3, 2021 Media Contact Anna Marum Greater Portland Inc 971-339-2012 anna.marum@greaterportlandinc.com Monique Claiborne selected to lead Greater Portland Inc  With international expertise and experience in business recruitment, government and finance, Claiborne is uniquely qualified to helm the regional economic development organization. PORTLAND, Ore. – The Greater Portland Inc (GPI) board of directors has named Monique Claiborne as the organization’s new president and CEO. Claiborne will oversee the nonprofit public-private partnership, which advances regional economic development through job growth and investment in the seven-county, bi-state region.  “Monique’s...

We're Hiring: Economic Recovery Coordinator (Part-Time)

Saturday, December 19, 2020

The Greater Portland Economic Development District, Greater Portland Inc's sister organization, is seeking a highly qualified candidate to serve as a part-time Economic Recovery Coordinator. This is an exciting new position created to support the implementation of the recently adopted Greater Portland Economic Recovery Plan. Position details and application instructions are available here. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis with the first evaluation on Friday, January 15, 2021. This position is open until filled.

GPEDD, Metro Unveil Greater Portland Economic Recovery Plan

Wednesday, December 09, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Conacts Anna Marum Greater Portland Inc 971-339-2012 anna.marum@greaterportlandinc.com   Constantino Khalaaf Metro 503-545-6450 constantino.khalaf@oregonmetro.gov   GPEDD, Metro unveil Greater Portland Economic Recovery Plan The plan defines 47 responsive actions to support the region’s individuals and businesses most impacted by the pandemic-induced recession and initiate a robust equitable recovery. PORTLAND, Ore. – The Greater Portland Economic Development District (GPEDD) and Metro have released the Greater Portland Economic Recovery Plan to guide the region in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The plan applies to...

GPI Offers Manufacturing Consulting Grants

Monday, November 09, 2020

Greater Portland Inc is pleased to offer grants to local manufacturing firms in the form of consulting services to help those negatively affected by COVID-19 and related closures. These consulting services will be provided by Impact Washington and the Oregon Manufacturing Extension Partnership (OMEP). This grant is made possible by funding from the Oregon Community Foundation.  Learn more and apply here.

Hillsboro: Blazing a Trail to a Bright Economic Future

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Hillsboro has long been an economic engine of Greater Portland and its growth shows no signs of slowing. The city of 103,000, located just west of Portland, is home to Oregon’s largest private employer, Intel, and is the heart of the Silicon Forest.  Intel employs over 20,000 in Hillsboro at its R&D headquarters. Hillsboro has grown into a global hub for the following industries: Computers and electronics Biosciences and medical devices Communications, software, IT and data centers Advanced manufacturing Big-name Hillsboro employers include Genentech, Thermo Fisher, Applied Materials, Tokyo Electron, Nvidia, Salesforce, NTT Global, ASML,...

Revolutionary Education Startup Verto Moves Headquarters to Portland

Friday, October 23, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Oct. 23, 2020 Media Contact Anna Marum Greater Portland Inc anna.marum@greaterportlandinc.com 971-339-2012 Education Startup Revolutionizing the First-year College Experience Moves HQ to Portland  Verto Education is relocating its headquarters from the Bay Area to Greater Portland. PORTLAND, OR — Greater Portland Inc is pleased to announce that Verto Education, a unique “gap year without the gap” college program, is relocating its headquarters from Berkeley, California to Portland, Oregon. The fast-growing startup currently employs 20 Portland residents. Although working remotely in the midst of the pandemic, Verto’s new office...

Greater Portland Inc Seeking Next President and CEO

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Greater Portland Inc is seeking our next president & CEO. Learn about this vital regional role and apply here.  

Portland Has 2nd Lowest COVID-19 Case Rate Among Major U.S. Cities

Tuesday, October 06, 2020

A recent study found that Portland has the second-lowest rate of COVID-19 cases per capita among the nation's 30 largest cities. The study, conducted by the Seattle mayor's office, compared coronavirus case rates for the country's 30 most populous cities.  Portland, represented by Multnomah County data, came in second, behind only Seattle. Multnomah County has seen 8.9 infections per 1,000 people, just above Seattle's 7.4 cases per 1,000. While that data isn't strictly comparable, Multnomah County's case rate is lower than that of King County, where Seattle is located.  Meanwhile, Las Vegas, Nashville, El Paso, Memphis and Phoenix...

South Korean Documentary Highlights Portland's Outdoors, Apparel Industry

Monday, October 05, 2020

Portland was the subject of a recent documentary produced by Seoul Broadcasting System, which aired on South Korean public TV. The video features an interview with Shawn Kim, deputy director of the Port of Portland's Korea Representative Office. The piece showcases the Greater Portland region's accessible outdoors, powerhouse footwear & athletic apparel industry and bike-friendly streets.         Greater Portland has seen recent investments by several South Korean companies, including high-tech outdoor apparel company Black Yak. The forests, rivers, mountains and beaches located within an hour of Portland continue to draw athletic apparel firms...

Pandemic Migration Patterns: Greater Portland Top Choice for Bay Area Residents

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

That claim that people are fleeing all urban areas in droves? Not true, according to available data. But more people ARE leaving the country's most expensive cities, San Francisco and New York. Where are they going? Not rural areas, but smaller metros, including Greater Portland.  A recent Bloomberg article examines multiple data sources to better understand where people are moving. It found that there is little support for the claimes that people are fleeing cities on a large scale. In fact, available data shows that fewer people moved between March and June.  However, America's largest, densest, most expensive...

GPI Board Selects Firm to Conduct CEO Search

Wednesday, September 23, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 23, 2020 Media Contact Anna Marum Greater Portland Inc 971-339-2012 aana.marum@greaterportlandinc.com GPI board selects firm to conduct CEO search Tigard-based Motus Recruiting will conduct the national search. PORTLAND, Ore. – The search committee from the Greater Portland Inc (GPI) board of directors has selected an executive recruiting firm to conduct a national search for GPI’s next president and CEO. After interviewing four firms, the board committee selected Tigard-based Motus Recruiting.  GPI’s new CEO will oversee the nonprofit public-private partnership, which advances regional economic development through job...

Greater Portland Economy Forecast to Recover Quickly

Wednesday, September 02, 2020

Where should companies invest now? According to a CBRE analysis of an Oxford Economics report, some metro areas will recover more quickly than others from the economic fallout of COVID-19.  Fueled by recent tech industry expansions and a manufacturing industry anchored by prominent semiconductor companies such as Intel, Greater Portland is forecast to be one of the fastest markets to rebound in the coming years. (See Greater Portland's top employers here.) The analysis shows the region's GDP growing 5.6% in 2021 and 2022, beating the forecast growth for the national GDP.  Interested in expanding or relocating...

Business Tribune Column: GPI Leading the Way in Regional Recovery Planning

Wednesday, July 29, 2020

This column appeared in the Business Tribune. Matt Miller, Greater Portland Inc's interim president and CEO, writes a monthly column for the local newspaper.  These last several months have been unlike any others in our collective memory as a region, nation or world. As of mid-July, the novel coronavirus had infected more than 7,000 in our seven-county, bi-state region. It has killed more than 160.  Due to the pandemic and widespread closures that helped slow the spread of the virus, we now face the worst recession since the Great Depression. According to the latest data available from employment...

Two GPI Scholarship Recipients Featured in Press

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

Two business owners who received export assistance scholarships from Greater Portland Inc have been featured in local publications. The Growing Small Businesses Globally scholarships provide access to one-on-one training sessions with export advisors, as well as a stipend for internationally focused sales activities. GPI announced the fourth round of scholarship recipients in June, knowing that these scholarships come at a crucial time for small business owners.  Mike Seely, a third-generation mint farmer who operates the sprawling Seely Family Farm in Clatskanie with his wife Candy, was featured in the Columbia County Spotlight. Seely already exports to Canada, but said...

GPI Awards Export Assistance Scholarships to 14 Local Entrepreneurs

Tuesday, June 23, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 23, 2020 Media Contact Anna Marum Greater Portland Inc anna.marum@greaterportlandinc.com 971-339-2012 GPI awards export assistance scholarships to 14 local entrepreneurs The local business owners may use the funds for international export-related sales activities. PORTLAND, Ore. – Greater Portland Inc (GPI) is pleased to announce recipients for its fourth round of Growing Small Businesses Globally export assistance scholarships, which aim to support entrepreneurs who are women, people of color and veterans.    The scholarships provide access to valuable training sessions with seasoned export advisors, as well as...

Business Tribune Column: Intense Change Comes With Opportunity For Our Region

Monday, June 22, 2020

This column appeared in the Business Tribune. Matt Miller, Greater Portland Inc's interim president and CEO, writes a monthly column for the local newspaper.  We are in a period of intense change: Our region, along with the rest of the country, is experiencing the worst recession since the Great Depression due to the novel coronavirus pandemic.  And in the wake of the most recent deaths of Black Americans at the hands of police officers, Greater Portlanders have joined protestors throughout the U.S. and the world demanding justice and reforms that address systemic racism and police brutality.  At...

Business Tribune Column: Region Innovates in Crisis Response Efforts

Friday, May 15, 2020

This column appeared in the Business Tribune. Matt Miller, Greater Portland Inc's interim president and CEO, writes a monthly column for the local newspaper.  This pandemic has been extremely challenging for our region. The human cost is sobering, and the economic impact is devastating. But responses by cities, companies and community members throughout Greater Portland are inspiring.     Our region has stepped up with creative solutions to offer grants to small businesses, produce masks and sanitizer for front-line workers, and encourage residents to support local businesses.  Greater Portland cities in particular acted quickly to stand up grant funds...

Economic Development Week: GPI Highlights Business Support Efforts, Creative Company Pivots

Monday, May 04, 2020

May 4-9 marks Economic Development Week, created by the International Economic Development Council to increase awareness for local programs that create jobs, advance career development opportunities and increase the quality of life in communities everywhere.  Each day this week, GPI will highlight innovative responses to the economic crisis from around the region, including city-led relief efforts and creative pivots by companies. Follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram to see how our region has responded, and check back here for daily updates. Monday: City-led efforts to support local businesses (grants and loans) Beaverton Established...

Business Tribune Column: Charting the Path to Regional Economic Recovery

Friday, April 17, 2020

This column appeared in the Business Tribune. Matt Miller, Greater Portland Inc's interim president and CEO, writes a monthly column for the local newspaper.  By now, our region is settling into a sort of new normal in the midst of this pandemic. For some, this means working from home. For many, this means heading into essential jobs every day to keep critical functions operating. For the tens of thousands recently laid off, this means applying for unemployment benefits. For many employers, it means applying for any and all available grants, loans and other resources.  It’s been nearly a...

Business Tribune Column: Regional Collaboration More Important Now Than Ever

Friday, March 20, 2020

This photo shows members of the Metropolitan Mayors Consortium at a 2019 meeting.  This column appeared in the Business Tribune. Matt Miller, Greater Portland Inc's interim president and CEO, writes a monthly column for the local newspaper.  Greater Portland Inc is built on the knowledge that our region is stronger when we work together. Amid the coronavirus outbreak, this collaboration is more important than ever. With the help of our 90-plus partners, last week we published an online list of resources for local businesses affected by the outbreak.  We were well positioned to create this resource because...

Greater Portland Inc Complies COVID-19 Business Resource List

Friday, March 13, 2020

With the help of our many public- and private-sector partners, Greater Portland has compiled a list of resources for businesses in the region affected by the coronavirus. We will be updating it as more resources become available. Regional collaboration is more important than ever in a time like this, and we're grateful to our many partners offering these resources. The list is available here.

Regional Report: Technology and Natural Resources Fuel Pacific States' Economies

Wednesday, March 04, 2020

The Greater Portland region was recently featured in an Area Development article highlighting the Pacific States. "The economies of the Pacific States — California, Washington, Oregon, Alaska, and Hawaii — represent a diverse mix of industries. Nonetheless, the region has become closely associated with the country’s tech boom, while also helping to supply the world through its robust natural resources."  The article goes on to highlight the area's large pool of skilled workers and locational advantages for international trade. It also addresses the high cost of living, though Greater Portland offers a lower cost of living than many of...

Business Tribune Column: GPI Export Program Empowers Local Entrepreneurs

Friday, February 21, 2020

This column appeared in the Business Tribune. Matt Miller, Greater Portland Inc's interim president and CEO, writes a monthly column for the local newspaper.  Economic development is more than recruiting businesses from outside our region. It’s also about supporting the businesses that are already here, especially those just starting out.  That’s why Greater Portland Inc (GPI) is excited to be offering its fourth round of Growing Small Businesses Globally export assistance scholarships. By connecting recipients with valuable training sessions and providing a stipend for internationally focused sales travel, these scholarships help entrepreneurs looking to expand their business to...

Greater Portland Economic Summit Fast Approaching

Wednesday, February 05, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Feb. 5, 2020 Media Contact Anna Marum Greater Portland Inc anna.marum@greaterportlandinc.com  971-339-2012 Regional higher education leaders to highlight industry partnerships at the Greater Portland Economic Summit  Tickets are still available for the Feb. 20 event, featuring global economic development expert Tracye McDaniel as keynote speaker PORTLAND, Ore. – Greater Portland Inc (GPI) is gearing up for its 2020 Greater Portland Economic Summit, which convenes nationally and regionally respected thought leaders for key conversations about what makes us successful as a region and where we can improve.  Greater...

Oregon Insight: Clark County's Economy Has Been Roaring

Monday, January 27, 2020

According to The Oregonian, "Clark County's economy has grown tremendously in the years since the Great Recession." Clark County is located in southwestern Washington, just north of Portland on I-5. Its county seat and largest city is Vancouver, Washington. The article points to three indicators:Sales grew at an annual rate of 8.8% from 2010 through 2018, outpacing Washington's statewide sales growth.The county continues to attract new corporate headquarters (such as PeaceHealth and Banfield Pet Hospital) and see growth with existing local companies (such as ZoomInfo/DiscoverOrg, nLIGHT, HP and RealWear)And Vancouver's new upscale waterfront development (pictured), with its condos, restaurants and wine...

GPI Launches 4th Round of Export Assistance Scholarships for Entrepreneurs

Wednesday, January 22, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Jan. 22, 2020 Media Contact Ann Marum Greater Portland Inc anna.marum@greaterportlandinc.com 971-339-2012 GPI launches 4th round of export assistance scholarships for entrepreneurs  12 scholarships are available for Greater Portland business owners. PORTLAND, Ore. – Greater Portland Inc (GPI) is excited to announce its fourth round of Growing Small Businesses Globally export assistance scholarships for entrepreneurs looking to expand their business to international markets.  GPI invites small business owners in the Greater Portland region – particularly women, people of color and veterans – to apply for one of...

3 Trends Driving Commercial Real Estate Demands in Greater Portland

Friday, January 17, 2020

This column appeared in the Business Tribune. Matt Miller, Greater Portland Inc's interim president and CEO, writes a monthly column for the local newspaper.  We recruit companies of all sorts to our region. From advanced manufacturers like diamond-maker Element Six to financial tech startups like Coinbase, each company we recruit needs real estate. This is why we work closely with commercial real estate companies to help these companies find a home.  According to recent data from JLL, our region’s commercial real estate costs for industrial and class A office are lower than those in other West Coast markets...