Companies Find Success in Greater Portland

OROS uses NASA technology to create technical apparel that can withstand extreme temperatures. The company relocated its headquarters from Cincinnati to Portland to take advantage of our region's incredible access to the outdoors and our large pool of highly qualified talent. "Portland is the technical apparel hub of the world," says Rithvik Venna, OROS' co-founder and chief operating officer. 

"Greater Portland Inc was incredible throughout this whole process," says OROS co-founder and CEO Michael Markesberry. 

"They ultimately are the reason we decided to move here," says Venna.

Element Six, a division of De Beers Group, built a $94-million advanced manufacturing facility in Gresham’s Vista Business Park. The 60,000-square-foot site employs around 60 full-time engineers and technicians.

General Manager Adam O’Grady noted that the company prioritized the Pacific Northwest for its low-cost energy, cool climate, and direct access to Portland International Airport. With GPI’s introductions and the City of Gresham’s fast permitting, the company quickly secured the right location.

“Without GPI providing the interface between us and possible sites, the process would have been much longer and more difficult. We could have ended up somewhere very, very different,” O’Grady said. 

RealWear creates voice-controlled, head-mounted wearable computers powered by augmented reality. Originally based in Silicon Valley, the company chose to move its headquarters to the Greater Portland Area.

Greater Portland Inc and the Columbia River Economic Development Council (CREDC) delivered critical data that informed the decision. “It made sense from an economic point of view to grow a business in this region versus other West Coast alternatives,” said Co-founder and CEO Andy Lowery, who also praised the quality of life and regional culture. 

10net specializes in digital media infrastructure, delivering immersive digital experiences for global brands like Lululemon and Subaru. The Vancouver, B.C.-based company opened its first U.S. office in Portland’s Central Eastside, which now serves as its American hub.

“The new office gives us access to an amazing talent pool, excellent transportation options, and a culture that fits our team,” said CFO/COO Tina Finan. “Greater Portland Inc connected us with all the right people, especially in the software and tech communities.” 

Solarcore (formerly OROS) develops technical apparel with NASA-inspired insulation technology designed for extreme environments. The company relocated its headquarters from Cincinnati to Portland, drawn by the region’s unparalleled outdoor access and world-class apparel talent pool.

“Portland is the technical apparel hub of the world,” said Rithvik Venna, co-founder and COO. CEO Michael Markesbery credited Greater Portland Inc for making the move possible: “They ultimately are the reason we decided to relocate here.” 

Microchip’s $72 million federal CHIPS Act award for its Gresham semiconductor facility showcases the strength of Oregon’s public-private partnerships for economic development. With the support of Greater Portland Inc, Business Oregon, and regional leaders, Microchip secured the resources needed to expand domestic production. This investment not only supports U.S. supply chain resilience but also creates high-quality workforce opportunities in the Greater Portland region. Microchip highlights how companies benefit from collaboration, innovation, and long-term growth strategies rooted in Oregon. 

Analog Devices (ADI), a global leader in semiconductors, is expanding in Oregon with a strong focus on workforce development. The company’s “people-first” approach invests in education and training to strengthen the semiconductor workforce, partnering with local colleges and community organizations to prepare the next generation of engineers and technicians. Greater Portland’s collaborative economic development ecosystem supports advanced technology companies and helps them scale with confidence. 

On, the Swiss performance running shoe brand, also selected Greater Portland for its U.S. operations. Drawn by the region’s outdoor culture, footwear expertise, and collaborative ecosystem, On continues to grow its footprint here, reinforcing Portland’s status as a global hub for athletic and outdoor innovation.