Recognizing that entrepreneurial potential exists throughout the state, not just in urban centers, Business Oregon set out to cultivate high-growth business ideas across all regions. Their solution was to establish regional “Innovation Hubs” to support businesses from concept to commercial success.
ECOnorthwest partnered with economic development actors across the state to evaluate regional capacity for supporting high-growth entrepreneurs. This collaboration led to the creation of three distinct Innovation Hubs: the Frontier Hub, the Mid-Columbia Hub, and the Mid-Willamette Valley Hub. These Hubs are more than just projects; they are catalysts for regional transformation. Sponsored by anchor institutions like Blue Mountain Community College, SEDCOR, and MCEDD, and backed by a diverse array of local partners, the Hubs bridge the critical gaps in each region’s unique innovation ecosystem.
Unleashing Potential Across Regions
The Frontier Innovation Hub, anchored in Oregon’s Northeast, seeks to capitalize on the emergence of new industries such as unmanned autonomous vehicles and green hydrogen. By tackling foundational barriers like access to capital and networking opportunities, the Hub aims to harness local creativity and resources to foster innovation and drive economic growth.
The Mid-Columbia Innovation Hub aims to support the growth of industries like fermentation and aerial photography in the highly attractive, yet land-constrained, Gorge area. By fostering a sustainable ecosystem that balances innovation with the environment, the Hub seeks to propel the Mid-Columbia region into a model of cross-border collaboration.
The Mid-Willamette Valley Innovation Hub leverages its strategically positioned landscape, rich with creative small farmers and academic institutions. With a vision to stimulate high-tech manufacturing and ag-tech, this Hub is a cornerstone for economic diversification and job creation in the heart of Oregon.
Bridging Gaps, Building Futures
Each hub directly tackles the barriers hindering its regional innovation ecosystem. By facilitating access to venture capital, offering business growth assistance, organizing startup events, and enhancing workforce development, the Hubs collectively strive to strengthen the overall ecosystem. A notable effort across all hubs is the push towards affordable housing and accessible childcare, acknowledging that a vibrant economy requires a stable and supportive living environment for its workforce.
Building Through Collaboration
The success of these Hubs is rooted in their collaborative DNA. By engaging a diverse network of partners—including local governments, educational institutions, private sectors, and community organizations—these Hubs epitomize the power of collective action. This inclusive approach ensures that Oregon’s innovation ecosystem is not just a series of isolated projects, but a cohesive, interconnected network that spans the entire state.
Charting the Course for Tomorrow
With critical funding in place, the Frontier, Mid-Columbia, and Mid-Willamette Valley Innovation Hubs are poised to empower local entrepreneurs and unleash Oregon’s entrepreneurial spirit. This initiative will drive economic growth, promote sustainable development, and enhance resilience across all regions of the state.