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State to Highlight Export Growth Opportunities for Oregon Companies at Showcases across the State

May 11, 2011

Business Oregon and local partners will host a week of International Road Shows where Oregon businesses can learn how to seize growing export opportunities for their companies.

The road shows will take place during World Trade Week—May 16-20—in Portland, Salem and Eugene. President Obama's upcoming proclamation will highlight World Trade Week as an opportunity for us to reaffirm the importance of trade to our Nation's continued economic recovery and growth.

Oregon exports increased 19 percent in 2010, led by high-tech sales and record shipments to China. Oregon companies registered $17.68 billion in foreign sales last year.

"The International Road shows are an excellent opportunity for Oregon's small- and medium-sized enterprises to learn about the assistance available from state, local and federal government agencies," said Business Oregon director Tim McCabe. "We have experts in place overseas who will be available at these events to answer questions and give advice on how Oregon companies can tap into markets around the globe."

Among the discussions or activities planned: see the full schedule and locations.

Presentations on China (Greater China, including the People's Republic of China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan) and the European Union;
Developing and expanding your products and services in major overseas markets; opportunities for sales and distribution;
Meetings with government representatives and state trade officials.

Road Show Schedule and Locations:
Monday, May 16 & Tuesday, May 17—121 SW Salmon St., World Trade Center, Portland.

Tuesday, May 17—International Business Awards and Scholarship Dinner; Reception 5:30 p.m.; Dinner at 7:00 p.m.; Portland Art Museum, Kridel Ballroom, 1219 SW Park Ave.

Wednesday, May 18—SEDCOR, Chemeketa Center for Business & Industry, 626 High Street NE, Salem or CLIMB Center Portland Community College, 1626 SE Water Ave., Portland.

Thursday, May 19—Eugene Chamber of Commerce, 1401 Willamette Street, Eugene

Friday, May 20—World Trade Center, 121 SW Salmon St., Portland.

Registration is required for all events.

Oregon Sustainability Winners Honored at Future Energy Conference

April 14, 2011

PORTLAND—Governor John Kitzhaber and the Oregon Sustainability Board honored six Oregon companies and non-profit organizations for their commitment to sustainable business practices at the Future Energy Conference on April 13.

Burgerville was chosen as the winner in the large business category. Northwoods Nursery received the award in the small business category. The NGO/Government awards went to the Corvallis School District, Corvallis Sustainability Coalition, First Alternative Co-op and the Port of Portland.

"We are working hard to rebuild Oregon's economy so that it is truly sustainable, and these pioneering companies and organizations are strong examples of how we can achieve this," said Governor Kitzhaber.

The awards recognized organizations that had taken dramatic and comprehensive steps to incorporate sustainability into their operations and set themselves up as examples for other organizations of their type and size. Oregon Secretary of State Kate Brown, who chairs the Oregon Sustainability Board, joined Governor Kitzhaber in handing out the honors.

"It is truly an honor to recognize these organizations for their outstanding efforts in supporting Oregon's economy while reducing the impact on the environment," Secretary of State Kate Brown said. "These private and government groups are real innovators for the future and their work should inspire us all to live more sustainable lives both at work and at home. All the winners deserve our deepest gratitude."

In 2006, then Governor Ted Kulongoski issued an Executive Order directed the then Oregon Economic and Community Development Department (OECDD) [now known as Business Oregon] to establish an awards program to promote and advance the inclusion of sustainable practices in government and the private sector.

More on the 2011 Oregon Sustainability Award Winners:

Large Business Award Winners

Burgerville
Burgerville is a quick-service restaurant company with 39 locations throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington, giving customers fresh, great-tasting food with a mission to "serve with love." Burgerville's values extend beyond serving locally grown berries, all-natural beef, Walla Walla Sweet onions and cage-free eggs. At Burgerville, the commitment to fresh, local and sustainable values is about helping people and communities thrive. The innovative company, established in 1961, is redefining industry norms by providing accessible healthcare for hourly employees and their dependents, purchasing wind power equal to their total energy use, converting used trans-fat free cooking oil to biodiesel and implementing comprehensive resource stewardship and recycling.

Small Business Award Winners

Northwoods Nursery/One Green World
Northwoods Nursery (wholesale)/One Green World (retail), founded by Jim Gilbert, not only grows an extraordinarily diverse selection of fruiting plants, it is a pioneer in sustainable agricultural practices. Located on 66 acres in Molalla, production occurs both in the field and in greenhouses. Since it began in 1979, sustainability has been at the core of Northwoods Nursery/One Green World's operations. The focus of the business, growing edible plants, is one deeply rooted in a desire to promote self-sufficient communities that can sustainably feed themselves. Designations, such as the first nursery to earn Salmon-Safe certification, recipient of the 2009 Businesses for an Environmentally Sustainable Tomorrow (BEST) Award from city of Portland and participant in the Climate Friendly Nurseries Project, illustrate the depth of Northwoods Nursery/One Green World's commitment to sustainability.

NGO/Government Award Winners

Corvallis School District
The Corvallis 509J School District educates about 6,630 K-12 students. Eighty-five unique countries with forty-five unique primary languages are represented within this population. The school district is the fourth largest employer in Corvallis. The students occupy two high schools, one alternative school, two middle schools, one Core Knowledge K-8 school, seven K-5 elementary schools (two are Spanish dual immersion) and one charter school that is a rural, place-based school. The school district maintains strong partnerships with the city of Corvallis and the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition. In addition, there is strong collaboration with local entities, such as Benton County Soil and Water Conservation District, STEPs (Scientists and Teachers in Education Partnerships) at OSU, Wildlife Stewards Program at OSU Extension, Corvallis Environmental Center, Freshwater Trust and the Multi Cultural Literacy Center. The district formed a Sustainability Steering Committee in 2008 to create a deliberate, comprehensive plan for becoming a Sustainable School District in which sustainability is modeled in its operations and integrated into its curricula.

Corvallis Sustainability Coalition
The Corvallis Sustainability Coalition is a network of more than 170 organizational partners and hundreds of individual volunteers. It was formed in 2007 to bring together businesses, non-profits, faith communities, educational institutions and government entities in the Corvallis area to accelerate the creation of a sustainable community. Its primary purpose is to foster communication and collaboration among those in the community working on different aspects of sustainability. In 2008, the Coalition developed and implemented a community-wide planning process that included three town hall meetings attended by more than 800 community members. The result was a Community Sustainability Action Plan that focuses on 12 topic areas. The plan is currently being implemented by the Coalition's action teams and organizational partners. Utilizing a grassroots-led process, the Coalition has created a model for communities pursuing all three core components of sustainability—environmental, economic and social.

First Alternative Co-op
First Alternative Co-op, started in 1970, is a natural foods grocery store with two locations in Corvallis and sales of $15 million per year. The cooperative has more than 7,100 owners, and all profits from the business go back into the business or back to the owners, in the form of a patronage dividend. Part of the cooperative's mission includes giving back to the community, which they accomplish through their Outreach Department funded through 1.5-2% of the cooperative's annual sales.

Port of Portland
The Port of Portland is the regional port authority for the Portland metropolitan area. The Port's three airports, four marine terminals and numerous industrial parks are located near major rivers, wetlands, neighborhoods and parks—therefore, how it does its work matters. Guided by environmental and sustainability policies and a Port-wide environmental management system, the Port pursues its mission to meet the region's transportation needs while improving quality of life. While the Port has five main environmental programs integrated into its marine and aviation business lines, the award is primarily for the innovative new headquarters building that was completed in 2010. A showcase of sustainable building techniques and features, the building also reflects the way the Port goes about meeting its transportation mandate: by making business decisions that support long-term economic health, integrate community concerns into its work, and reflect a deep and broad commitment to environmental stewardship.

For more information, visit sustableoregon.net.

250 New Jobs Coming to Downtown Coos Bay

March 28, 2011

First Call Resolution Unveils Third Oregon Location

Shimadzu USA Will Expand Canby Manufacturing Operations; Add More than 50 Family Wage Jobs

March 4, 2011

Please visit the Governor's Web site to read the release.

Oregon Delegation Travels to Japan to Spur Business Expansion and Recruitment Opportunities

February 28, 2011

SALEM—A 17-member Oregon delegation landed in Japan this week to attend Asia's largest exposition featuring the latest in solar, fuel cell and battery technology and to recruit clean technology investment to the state. The delegation also will host two, "Invest in Oregon" seminars in Osaka and Tokyo, both of which have sold out with 110 Japanese firms signed up to attend and meet with Oregon officials about investment opportunities.

The delegation includes economic development officials from the state of Oregon, the cities of Hillsboro, Gresham and Salem and from private sector firms such as Portland General Electric and CH2M Hill. Metro President Tom Hughes and Salem Mayor Anna Peterson joined the delegation to help promote increased business investment and tourism from Japan in the Portland Metro region as well as the Willamette Valley.

"This mission is about building and developing business relationships between Oregon companies and potential overseas investors," said Tim McCabe, Business Oregon Director. "The development of these critical relationships will help grow Oregon's economy for decades to come."

McCabe said the latest trip to Asia is a great example of the value of the public private partnership approach dubbed "Team Oregon." The "Team Oregon" approach brings together key players from both the public and private sector to help increase clean tech investment throughout the state of Oregon.

McCabe said the efforts add value in three critical ways: 1) they help existing Oregon companies win more clean tech business in Asia (CH2M Hill, Gerding Edlen and Inspec are all on the trip); 2) they help educate leading Japanese firms about investment opportunities in Oregon; and 3) they help develop and grow existing partnerships between clean tech firms and Oregon communities such as Gresham, Hillsboro and Salem all of which have previously benefited from overseas clean tech investment from such firms as SolarWorld, Ferrotec, Inc. and Sanyo Solar. Initial contact between Business Oregon and these companies came at trade shows like PV Expo.

The two "Invest in Oregon" seminars will be held today in Osaka and tomorrow in Tokyo. The seminars and receptions are invitation only to the leading Japanese companies. The seminars were organized by Business Oregon in partnership with the Japan America Society of Oregon (JASO) and have been generously sponsored by Delta Airlines, the Port of Portland, InSpec Group, Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt and Taylor Schwabe America Access.

The delegation also will join 900 photovoltaic exhibitors gathered at the PV System Expo in Tokyo beginning March 4. The show, the largest held in Asia, features representatives from 60 countries and regions who will be on hand to showcase technologies related to the manufacturing of solar cell/module, fuel cell and battery technology.

Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber Announces Grant Opportunity for Biomass

February 14, 2011

State plans to increase jobs in the forest products industry

From SoloPower:

SoloPower Announces New Solar Panel Manufacturing Facility in Oregon

January 13, 2011

SAN JOSE, Calif., January 13, 2011—SoloPower, Inc., a California-based manufacturer of flexible, thin film solar cells and modules, announces it will locate a high volume manufacturing facility in Wilsonville, Oregon. The initial phase of this expansion will be the construction of a 75 MW manufacturing line which will create 170 new jobs. Upon completion, the facility is expected to have nameplate capacity of 300MW, employ approximately 500 people, and have a total investment of approximately $340 Million. This state-of-the-art production facility will greatly enhance SoloPower's ability to provide powerful, flexible, lightweight solar modules to its growing list of global customers.

"SoloPower is bringing exactly the kind of new jobs Oregon needs. By bringing their manufacturing headquarters to Wilsonville, we are continuing on the path toward establishing a stronger clean technology manufacturing base in Oregon." said Governor John Kitzhaber.

Today the Small Scale Energy Loan Program (SELP) Advisory Committee recommended approval to the Oregon Department of Energy for a $20 million loan to SoloPower. SoloPower also has applied for a Business Energy Tax Credit (BETC) of $20 million from the state of Oregon. These state programs will enable the company's efforts to rapidly scale up production, while providing an economic boost to the community, creating jobs and supporting local businesses. Simultaneously, SoloPower is in discussions with the United States Department of Energy to obtain a loan guarantee under Section 1703 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to support the construction of the additional production lines.

"We are very pleased to welcome SoloPower and its advanced technology solar panel manufacturing operation, including its manufacturing headquarters, to Wilsonville," said Tim McCabe, the director of Business Oregon. "This innovative thin film solar panel manufacturer, and its 170 new jobs for Oregonians, will make a great addition to North America's #1 solar manufacturing cluster located here in Oregon."

Wilsonville Mayor Tim Knapp said, "The City of Wilsonville is proud to bring this exciting new business to Wilsonville, and we are committed to supporting the solar industry help fulfill national and state goals furthering sustainability and energy independence. The City is partnering with Business Oregon with the help of Clackamas County to promote smart job-growth in the private sector. SoloPower's considerable investment in Wilsonville has the potential to produce several hundred family-wage jobs that represents a tremendous opportunity for the city, Portland metro region and the state."

"Over the past year, SoloPower has considered several alternative sites. Oregon is an exceptional location for our long-term growth," stated SoloPower CEO Tim Harris. "SoloPower greatly appreciates the partnerships it has formed with the State of Oregon, the Oregon Department of Energy, Clackamas County and the City of Wilsonville. Oregon's business friendly environment, excellent support programs, and highly skilled work force made locating our new manufacturing facility in Oregon an easy decision."

From the Office of the Governor:

Business Oregon Certifies Three Industrial Sites for Job Creation

January 12, 2011

Business Oregon, working with its state and local partners, recently certified three large industrial sites as ready for business development and job creation in as few as 180 days.

The three new sites bring to 68 the total number of certified sites since the program's inception in 2003. The new sites include 81 acres in the same Prineville industrial park that houses a new Facebook data center; 101 acres on a former superfund site in The Dalles, Oregon; and 40 acres of recently zoned industrial land in Ontario, Oregon.

"As I stated yesterday, finding ways to certify more industrial land to create jobs for Oregonians is a priority of my economic development strategy," said Governor John Kitzhaber. "These three new sites will provide rural Oregonians new job opportunities as we work to create jobs throughout the state."

Certified Industrial Sites are considered project ready—where the typical impediments to development have been identified and resolved and building can begin within 180 days of a development decision. Issues related to environmental clearances, zoning, utilities and transportation are addressed by the appropriate state, local and tribal agencies prior to confirmation of the site's readiness to be developed. All certified sites are reviewed by an independent certifier for adherence to the program's strict guidelines.

"Certified industrial sites are attractive to site selectors and developers because they provide more certainty to the development process," said Tim McCabe, Director of Business Oregon, which manages the program. "These sites are an exciting addition to Oregon's certified industrial lands. These sites represent a great job creation opportunity for industry."

Certification is a cornerstone of the state's industrial development strategy. Many of Oregon's highest profile business relocations and expansions have occurred on certified sites, including the 2011 Subaru announcement in Portland's Rivergate District; Genentech in Hillsboro; Facebook in Prineville; Google in The Dalles; Sanyo Solar in Salem; as well as large distribution centers for Home Depot and Lowe's Home Improvement in Salem and Lebanon, respectively.

"An abundance of competitively-priced industrial land offers many options for relocating and expanding businesses," said Jason Carr, Manager of Prineville Economic Development. "The community already offers fiber and broadband capacity not seen in most rural communities, and boasts transportation services through the airport and railroad freight depot."

The state's Certified Industrial Site program began in 2003 as a result of an executive order by Governor Ted Kulongoski. The program was developed in response to concerns that Oregon needs to have more ready to go industrial land in order to remain competitive in the global marketplace.

Additional information on the three new certified sites:

Prineville:
The 81-acre Tom McCall Industrial Park, Phase II is comprised of a pair of industrially zoned parcels owned by industrial park developer Freund/Spencer Investment Group, LLC, and Investor/Developer TYM-USA, Inc. The site is located on the eastern end of the Business Park which also is home to the 125-acre Facebook facility. The Facebook site was certified in 2005 and is the future home of a multi-building data center campus that represent more than $300 million in investment.

For additional information about the certified site in the Tom McCall Business Park contact Louie Hoffman of Steve Scott Realtors or call

The Dalles:
The 101 acres certified in The Dalles is a former federal Superfund site that was delisted in 1996, the extensive environmental and clean-up work has returned this site to productive reuse as one of the largest brownfield redevelopment projects in the US. To make the site shovel-ready, about 29 buildings totaling more than 3 million square feet were deconstructed. Fifty-four thousand tons of concrete were crushed and backfilled on site, keeping significant amounts of concrete out of landfills. The demolition also produced 65,000 tons of recycled material. According to Galen May, Golden Northwest's Project Manager and former Environmental Manager at the smelter, the goal of renovating the site was "to create the same or better job opportunities that were provided by the smelter." May anticipates between 400 and 1,000 direct jobs from the renovation project.

For additional information about the certified site in The Dalles, call Doug MacCourt of Ater Wynne LLP or call or Mr. Galen May, Project Manager,.

Ontario:
The 75-acre Wada Industrial Site is the first certified site in Ontario, Oregon, and the first certified site in Malheur County. The site is owned by the Wada family trust and is certified for general manufacturing and warehousing uses. The site is less than two miles from Interstate 84 and also benefits from being across from the Ontario Municipal Airport. The site was annexed into the city and zoned as an industrial business park in 2009. The certified site should help raise the profile of Ontario as an industrial location. Ontario's location near the Idaho border and its direct access to Interstate 84 make it an excellent site for multi-state distribution and other like facilities.

For additional information from the owner of the site contact Mark Wada, Trustee,. Additional contact: Jim Jensen, Malheur County,.

For additional information about industrial site certification, please contact Business Oregon's Michael Williams at .

Jefferson State Forest Products Announces Grants Pass Relocation

December 23, 2010

Grants Pass, OR—Southern Oregon Regional Economic Development, Inc., (SOREDI) and Business Oregon are pleased to announce that Jefferson State Forest Products of Hayfork, California, is relocating to Grants Pass. Jefferson State Forest Products is one of several subsidiaries of Upstream 21, headquartered in Portland, Oregon. The company will co-locate with Roguewood Furniture (formerly Bentwood Furniture) in Grants Pass, another Upstream 21 subsidiary, and create 15 new local jobs. The relocation process is expected to begin immediately and be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2011.

SOREDI Business Development Manager Colleen Padilla states that "this is yet another effective collaboration of agencies to bring new business to Southern Oregon that create jobs. Special thanks are due to Business Oregon, Josephine County and the city of Grants Pass for their critical investment in this recruitment project."

Upstream 21's mission is to create a family of businesses by acquiring them and operating them as wholly-owned subsidiaries, sharing principles and business practices designed to improve their performance as companies and as members of their communities. Jefferson State Forest Products manufactures a variety of wood products, such as produce bins and store displays from responsibly managed forests and purchases most of their raw materials from small independent sawmills that produce lower volumes of lumber harvested from private lands.

According to Upstream 21 CEO Bryan Gooch Redd, Jefferson State Forest Products and Roguewood Furniture are not being merged and will continue to be separate companies with their own respective employees and operations. This relocation is driven by the unique opportunity for these two companies to collaborate for continuous improvement to design and manufacture even higher quality products at lower costs to their customers, thereby strengthening both companies and their competitiveness in their respective markets.

SOREDI, in close collaboration with Business Oregon, responded to the recruitment project in mid-December with a proposal outlining lower operational costs in Southern Oregon such as highly competitive workers' compensation and offering an incentive package with components from the Governor's Strategic Reserve Fund, Josephine County and the city of Grants Pass. Financial incentives offered from each of the agencies are based on new job creation and the retention of those jobs over a period of time.

Business Oregon Executive Director Tim McCabe states "We are excited about Jefferson State Forest Products' decision to relocate its operations to Grants Pass. These 15 new jobs, along with the recent reopening of the plywood mill in Rogue River by Murphy Co. and Brammo's continued success in Ashland, clearly demonstrate the growing strength of southern Oregon's economy."

Jefferson State Forest Products also may qualify for financial incentives created through the Business Oregon BOOST program if the positions are filled by persons who have been previously unemployed for at least 60 days, and the average wage level is at least 85 percent of that of similar industry wages in the area. The Building Opportunities for Oregon Small Business Today (BOOST) program was created earlier this year through HB 3698 to promote access to working capital that result in immediate job growth and job retention through the making of loans and awarding of grants to traded sector small business in Oregon. Eligible companies may receive up to $50,000 in grant funding.

In addition, Grants Pass is located in the recently consolidated Rogue Enterprise Zone which provides property tax abatement for new capital investments within the zone when at least 10 percent new employment is added. Upstream 21 plans significant capital investments in Grants Pass, including machinery, equipment, process improvements and continuous employee training. Jefferson State Forest Products also has applied for the Oregon Investment Advantage program which could qualify the company for 10 years of corporate income tax exemption on profits earned above the corporate minimum tax.

Oregon Company Wins Awards as Best Clean Tech Company in U.S.

November 18, 2010

SALEM—Beaverton-based Puralytics, Inc., has been named the best clean technology company in the U.S. at the annual Cleantech Open awards held last night in San Jose, California.

The state of Oregon, through the Oregon Innovation Council (Oregon InC) and the Oregon Nanoscience and Microtechnologies Institute (ONAMI), provided $225,000 in financial backing to the company earlier this year. The four-year-old company's Shield 500, a desktop computer-sized purification device with the capacity to purify 500 gallons of water a day utilizes a process called photocatalytics purification that uses ultraviolet rays.

"This is further proof of the importance of funding innovative Oregon startup companies by supporting our state's premiere research institutions," said Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski, who proposed creation of the Oregon Innovation Council in 2005. "Oregon InC's continued ability to back Oregon companies to help them create jobs will be a critical element in our state's ability to compete and win in the global economy."

The Oregon Nanotechnologies and Microtechnologies Institute (ONAMI) awarded Oregon Health Sciences University (OHSU) and Puralytics a $225,000 grant earlier this year to improve and commercialize the water purification technology. It is estimated that the worldwide market for water purification technologies like Puralytics is valued at more than $1 billion, with about $400 million in the United States alone. The development of water purification technology was a major focus for Governor Kulongoski on his recent trade mission to Israel.

"ONAMI has been very pleased with the technical progress made by Puralytics and OHSU on our gap fund project to advance Puralytics' unique and breakthrough technology for the critical water sector," said Robert D. "Skip" Rung, ONAMI's president and executive director, who accompanied Governor Kulongoski on the Israeli trade mission. "We couldn't agree more with the Cleantech Open's selection of Puralytics as its 2010 winner, and we continue to predict great success for this outstanding company."

ONAMI was created to cultivate research and commercialization as a means to advance the leading economic sector in Oregon, and expand the benefits of technology innovation to traditional and natural resource industries. Its commercialization program is designed to bring Oregon technologies to the marketplace and support the companies behind them.

"We focus on the critical early stages of technology commercialization where a gap between research and product often leaves potentially successful enterprises in the so-called 'valley of death,'" said Rung. "We work with university researchers in Oregon, technology transfer offices, aspiring entrepreneurs and development partners to determine the success factors, both technical and business oriented, which lead to commercialization."

Since its inception, the Gap Program has provided $2 million in grants to grow micro- and nano-based businesses in Oregon, and brought nearly $15 million in related investments and grants into our portfolio companies.

Sources: Skip Rung, (ONAMI); Mark Owens, CEO, Puralytics ; Jay Lindquist, ONAMI Gap Fund,

Media Advisory: U.S. Asst. Secretary of Commerce to discuss new ideas for technology, commercialization and entrepreneurship at PSU on Tuesday (Nov. 9)

November 8, 2010

U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John Fernandez will visit Portland State University (PSU) on Tuesday, November 9 to award the i6Challenge Grant and lead a discussion on identifying the nation's best ideas for technology, commercialization and entrepreneurship.

Oregon has been named one of six regional winners of the i6 Challenge, whose $1 million prize will be shared by Oregon's three Signature Research Centers (SRCs), which were created by Gov. Ted Kulongoski and the Oregon Legislature to spur economic development by turning university-based research into new products, companies and jobs.

The SRCs—The Oregon Translational Research & Drug Development Institute (OTRADI); the Oregon Built Environment & Sustainable Technologies Center (Oregon BEST) and the Oregon Nanoscience & Microtechnologies Institute (ONAMI)—will use the grant to develop mentoring and business assistance resources for innovators and startup companies; increase commercialization investments; provide internships and residencies to students and faculty researchers; attract new investment capital to Oregon, and create an independent venture-backed bioscience accelerator program.

Additional funding could potentially follow when the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation award a regional total of up to $1 million in supplemental funding to their Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grantees that are associated or partnered with the winning teams.

With the grant money, the three SRCs will each launch entrepreneur-in-residence programs, teaming experienced business professionals in their technological areas with new entrepreneurs in settings to identify and speed commercialization. The funding also will expand gap funding programs that support early private-public ventures, and mentor students to be well prepared to work in and launch entrepreneurial ventures.

A total of six i6 Challenge Grants were awarded to six different EDA districts in the United States. Oregon is part of the Seattle Region, which includes Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Washington, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, Federated States of Micronesia, the Rep. of Marshall Islands and the Rep. of Palau. More information on the i6 Challenge program is available at www.eda.gov/i6.

The visit will take place at the College of Urban and Public Affairs, Room 710, Meyer Memorial Board Room, 506 SW Mill, Portland, Tuesday, November 9, 2010, 8:30 am.

Sources: Dr. Patricia Beckmann (OTRADI); David Kenney (Oregon BEST)

Oregon honored for leadership in electric vehicles

November 1, 2010

Oregon is first state to receive international industry recognition.

Business Oregon Director Tim McCabe Embarks on Asia Trade Mission

October 28, 2010

SALEM—Tim McCabe, Director of Business Oregon, will lead a trade mission of nine Oregon companies to exhibit at Eco Expo Asia in Hong Kong November 3-6. McCabe also will use the trip to build on the successful groundwork laid by Gov. Ted Kulongoski's May 2010 Asia trade mission with visits planned to Korea, Hong Kong and China.

McCabe said Eco Expo Asia is an ideal platform for Oregon's green manufacturers, services and suppliers wanting to establish a foothold in expanding Asian eco markets. The Hong Kong show will focus on business solutions to climate change. It will feature companies specializing in air quality, energy efficiency, green buildings, waste and recycling, and eco-friendly products.

The Oregon firms joining McCabe on the trip include SSI Shredding Systems, Met One Instruments, West Salem Machinery, Green Touch Design, Baysinger Partners, Oswego Design and Remodeling, Green Technology Solutions, Porteon Electric Vehicle and Apex Drive.

"This is a great chance for existing Oregon companies to seize upon the tremendous potential clean tech related opportunities growing in Asia," McCabe said. "Oregon companies are well positioned to tap into these fast-growing markets to create jobs for Oregonians."

The trade mission to Eco Expo Asia is partially funded by a grant from the Green Export Enabler Program (GEEP), a Market Development Cooperative Program (MDCP), which is a federal grant that assists U.S. small- and medium-sized companies with export opportunities. After Eco Expo Asia, some Oregon companies will continue on to Manila and Bangkok, Thailand to make additional business contacts.

In addition to the Hong Kong show, McCabe also will attend the 25th Electric Vehicle Symposium in Shenzhen, China, sponsored by the Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA) upon behalf of Gov. Kulongoski.

McCabe will begin the trade mission with a visit to Korea where he will call on leading South Korean renewable energy technology companies. McCabe will meet with leading companies in advanced energy storage, advanced LED lighting technology and scale wind turbine component supply in line with Business Oregon's ongoing efforts to establish supply chain connections with Oregon companies.

Business Oregon and MEMC Announce Plans to Expand Portland Solar Materials Manufacturing Plant at Solar Power International 2010

October 15, 2010

LOS ANGELES—The Oregon Business Development Department ("Business Oregon") and officials from MEMC Electronic Materials Inc. (NYSE: WFR), a global leader in the manufacture and sale of wafers and related products to the semiconductor and solar industries, today announced the expansion of MEMC's Portland, Oregon, solar manufacturing facility. The facility was obtained through MEMC's recent acquisition of Solaicx.

MEMC's Portland facility has developed proprietary continuous crystal growth manufacturing technology which yields low-cost, high-efficiency monocrystalline silicon wafers for the photovoltaic solar industry. This technology allows for very high-volume crystal growth compared to the silicon ingots produced in the traditional precision semiconductor manufacturing process.

The company estimates that the Oregon plant will ramp up from about 60 megawatts (MW) in annual production capacity at the time of acquisition, to approximately 300 MW of capacity in 2011. The Oregon plant is expected to employ approximately 130 full time employees after the capacity ramp.

"This is great news for Oregon and for our growing solar industry," said Tim McCabe, the director of Business Oregon, who attended the Solar Power International show along with the MEMC officials. "Market leaders such as MEMC are a critical piece of our plans to grow Oregon's solar industry. Oregon is committed to shortening the supply chain, driving costs down and growing demand for solar power."

MEMC officials recognize the key role of Oregon's early stage investment in Solaicx that supported the technology development and workforce growth during its start up phase.

"We look forward to working with Oregon in the coming months as we become part of their expanding solar manufacturing community," said Ken Hannah, President of MEMC Solar Materials.

MEMC's Oregon facility qualified for the state of Oregon's solar manufacturing and business growth incentives in 2007. Business Oregon worked to recruit the original Solaicx facility to Portland touting the fast-growing solar manufacturing cluster, now the largest in North America, emerging in the state. Oregon has one of the most effective solar manufacturing incentive packages in the U.S. and is in the top ten in overall renewable investments. Support from state government played a critical role in MEMC's decision to expand its operation in Oregon.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain matters discussed in this press release are forward-looking statements, including the estimation that the Oregon plant will ramp up from about 60 megawatts (MW) in annual capacity at the time of acquisition, to approximately 300 MW of capacity in 2011; and that the Oregon plant is expected to employ approximately 130 full time employees after the capacity ramp. Such statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Potential risks and uncertainties include unforeseen delays or difficulties in the ramp-up; the timely availability of required approvals; and other risks described in MEMC's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Form 10-K for the 2009 fiscal year and its quarterly reports on Form 10-Q for the first and second quarters of 2010. These forward-looking statements represent MEMC's judgment as of the date of this release. MEMC disclaims, however, any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

Eaton Taps Wilsonville, Oregon, as Key Site for Electric Vehicle DC Quick Charger

October 13, 2010

Read the release from the Business Wire

State Recognizes Eight Projects for Excellence in Downtown Revitalization

October 7, 2010

SALEM—Oregon Main Street announced its 2010 "Excellence in Downtown Revitalization" award winners today at the annual Oregon Main Street Conference in Albany, Oregon. First Lady Mary Oberst and Gary Van Huffel, Business Development Manager, Business Oregon were co-presenters of the awards.

The eight projects honored are:

Outstanding Achievement in Promotion

Downtown Corvallis Association for their "Rhapsody in the Vineyard" special event
Albany Downtown Association for their "Unwrapping Downtown" retail promotion

Best Economic Restructuring Story

Downtown Dental in downtown Corvallis

Outstanding Achievement in Design

Hillsboro's Venetian Theatre & Bistro building renovation project completed by Denzil Scheller
Rosemary and Larry Abell for the interior renovation of the Pythian Castle for Earth and Vine in Baker City

Outstanding Organizational Project

Amity Downtown Improvement Group's "Appetizers for Improvement" fundraiser

Outstanding Public Partner

City of Roseburg for their downtown Upper-Floor Redesign Project

Innovation Award

Main Street Oregon City for their "Blue Collar Creative" business recruitment campaign

In addition, awards were given to the following individuals for their outstanding contributions to their communities:

Volunteer of the Year

Laura Rambo for her contributions to the Main Street Oregon City program
Certificates of Appreciation also were presented to John Coleman for his contributions to the Downtown Corvallis Association and to Connie Lanham for her contributions to the Albany Downtown Association

Main Street Manager of the Year

Ann Mehaffy, Executive Director, Historic Baker City

"These award winners represent the creativity and hard work taking place across the state to strengthen our downtown communities," said Sheri Stuart, coordinator, Oregon Main Street. "We are pleased to recognize them for their dedication and commitment to creating vibrant communities and growing Oregon's economy."

The first annual awards presentation were a highlight of the Oregon Main Street Conference, a popular annual conference that brings together people with an interest in downtown revitalization. Albany hosted this year's event, which included sessions on small business success during challenging times, attracting customers, comprehensive downtown revitalization efforts for small communities, cultural and heritage tourism, fundamentals of building design and renovation, energy efficiency, developing a comprehensive fundraising strategy, and attracting and keeping volunteers.

Local contacts:
Oscar Hult, Albany Downtown Association,
Ann Mehaffy, Historic Baker City,
Joan Wessell, Downtown Corvallis Association,
Lloyd Purdy, Main Street Oregon City,
Brian Davis, City of Roseburg,
Karla Antonini, City of Hillsboro,
Eve Silverman, Amity Downtown Improvement Group,

OPB's Steven Bass to open Oregon Telecommunications Conference

October 6, 2010

Hood River, OR—"Oregon Telecom: The New Age of Broadband," is the theme of the 15th annual Oregon Connections Telecommunications Conference, scheduled for Thursday and Friday, October 21st and 22nd, at the Hood River Inn and Conference Center in Hood River.

The Keynote Speaker will be Steven Bass, President and CEO of Oregon Public Broadcasting who also serves as a member of the board of directors of National Public Radio. The conference draws attendees from all regions of the state to share ideas, experiences and knowledge about telecommunications. The 2010 conference will explore the importance and value of broadband telecommunications for business, government, education, healthcare, communities and individuals, and the renewed priority interest in broadband funding, technologies and applications. The conference also will honor individuals and organizations that have positively impacted telecommunications development in Oregon.

Conference information and on-line registration are available at www.oregonconnections.info.

Sponsors include LS Networks, Integra Telecom, CoastCom, Charter Business, Association of Oregon Counties, Rio Networks, Comspan, North Sky Communications, Oregon Health Network, CenturyLink, CACHE, Polycom, Business Oregon, Mid-Columbia Economic Development District, the City of Eugene, Q-Life Network, Juniper Networks, the Northwest Access Exchange and Cisco.

Oregon Main Street Selects New "Transforming Downtown" Participants

October 6, 2010

Salem, Oregon—Oregon Main Street is pleased to announce the cities of Astoria, Canby, Cottage Grove, Springfield and The Dalles have been selected for inclusion in the Transforming Downtown Program.

The "Transforming Downtown" level is the middle level of support and services available through the Oregon Main Street network. The network also includes "Performing Main Street" and "Exploring Downtown" levels of participation.

Communities selected to participate at the Transforming Downtown level of the Oregon Main Street program will receive technical assistance to help build a strong organizational foundation to sustain a long-term revitalization efforts. While Transforming Downtown level towns are not Main Street® certified, participation at this level will increase a community's readiness to advance to the Main Street level of the program.

The effort is modeled on the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Main Street methodology, which has been used in more than 2,200 communities nationwide to recapture business interest and vitality in downtown areas.

Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street coordinator, said she has seen increased interest in revitalizing traditional downtowns. This renewed interest may be related to the economic downturn, but also is a result of a growing awareness of the importance of local heritage in contributing to economic development efforts and a desire for livable and vibrant communities.

Currently, there are 70 cities and communities in Oregon participating in one of the three levels coordinated by Oregon Main Street. Communities are eligible to participate in regional training workshops and also receive assistance in starting, organizing and planning their local program. Technical assistance from Oregon Main Street includes historic surveys, community assessments, resource team visits, market analysis and architectural design.

Communities as small as Mitchell (pop. 100) or as large as Salem (pop. 150,000) are using this assistance in this current economy to support and strengthen their existing downtown businesses.

Contact Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator at for additional information or visit the Main Street Web page.

Oregon Wins National Competition to Bring New Technologies to Market Faster

September 23, 2010

Oregon has been named one of six winners of the i6 Challenge, a new $12 million competition by the federal government to identify the nation's best ideas for technology commercialization and entrepreneurship.

The $1 million award, announced Thursday in Washington, D.C., by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke, will be shared by Oregon's three Signature Research Centers (SRCs), which were created by Gov. Ted Kulongoski and the Oregon Legislature to spur economic development by turning university-based research into new products, companies and jobs.

The SRCs—the Oregon Translational Research & Drug Development Institute (OTRADI); the Oregon Built Environment & Sustainable Technologies Center (Oregon BEST) and the Oregon Nanoscience & Microtechnologies Institute (ONAMI)—will use the grant to develop mentoring and business assistance resources for innovators and startup companies; increase commercialization investments; provide internships and residencies to students and faculty researchers; attract new investment capital to Oregon, and create an independent venture-backed bioscience accelerator program.

"This national award validates our innovative approach to economic development here in Oregon, bringing industry and university researchers together in targeted sectors to collaboratively commercialize new products and technologies—which translates into new jobs," said Gov. Kulongoski.

Additional funding could potentially follow shortly when the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation award a total of up to $6 million in supplemental funding to their Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grantees that are associated or partnered with the winning teams.

"The state's investment in its Signature Research Centers continues to pay real dividends," said Tim McCabe, director of the Oregon Business Development Department. "This grant will give us more tools to help businesses and entrepreneurs create the jobs that will help Oregon grow out of this recession with a stronger and more diverse economy."

ONAMI, OTRADI and Oregon BEST are all initiatives of the Oregon Innovation Council, which was created in 2005 to bring together the private sector, the state's four research universities and government to spur an innovation-based economy. The SRCs foster collaboration among hundreds of university researchers and provide support to a statewide network of shared-user R&D labs in green building and renewable energy; nanoscience and microtechnology, and biomedical applications and new drug development.

With the grant money, the three SRCs will each launch entrepreneur-in-residence programs, teaming experienced business professionals in their technological areas with new entrepreneurs in settings to identify and speed commercialization. The funding will also expand gap funding programs that support early private-public ventures, and mentor students to be well prepared to work in and launch entrepreneurial ventures.

"All three signature research centers created by the state offer Oregon businesses and researchers a unique suite of tools, and it's wonderful to collectively receive national recognition for our innovative programs and approach to job creation," said David Kenney, president and executive director of Oregon BEST.

OTRADI will use some of the funding to develop the Oregon Bioscience Accelerator & Entrepreneur Center, an independent, venture-backed bioscience incubator focused on biomedical commercialization, including financing and managing earliest stage startup companies.

"While the three SRC's are focused on three different sectors, there are fundamental entrepreneurship aspects—outreach, finance, business expertise, etc.—that apply across the board, so we're focusing on those aspects to fuel job creation," said Dr. Patricia Beckmann, president and executive director of OTRADI.

"This grant is clear recognition at the national level that what we're doing in Oregon—tapping our intellectual capital and teaming the business community with academia to launch startups and help existing companies—is working well," said Skip Rung, president and executive director of ONAMI.

The six i6 Challenge Grants were awarded to six different EDA districts in the United States. Oregon is part of the Seattle Region, which includes Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Washington, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, Federated States of Micronesia, the Rep. of Marshall Islands and the Rep. of Palau. More information on the i6 Challenge program.

New business arrival makes a splash at Olympic Mills

September 17, 2010

News release from PDC

Applications for the Governor's 2010 Oregon Sustainability Awards Now Being Accepted

September 7, 2010

SALEM, OR—Applications for the 2010 Oregon Sustainability Awards are now being accepted by Business Oregon on behalf of the Governor and the Oregon Sustainability Board.

Oregonians have always put great value on the long-term health of the environment in which they live, work and play, and therefore take the long view when making investments in economic development. Sustainability is an integrated concept in the strategic planning of most Oregon organizations and companies, but some are truly moving to the head of the pack. Governor Ted Kulongoski created the Sustainability Awards to recognize those outstanding efforts.

The Oregon Sustainability Awards are intended to promote and advance the inclusion of sustainable practices in government and the private sector. Any private, public or non-profit organization is eligible to apply. Awards will be given based on merit, but organizations may be grouped by size and/or type in order to make comparing applicants more efficient and appropriate.

Winners must show a commitment to sustainability that goes beyond compliance with regulatory requirements. They will be innovators in their fields and show that becoming more sustainable is not in conflict with achieving the organization's core mission, whatever that may be. The Awards broadly defines sustainable practices as those that strive to optimize an organization's financial, environmental and social performance.

Last year's winners were Harry and David, Truitt Brothers, Duro-Last Roofing, Gingerich Farms, Washington County (Clean Water Services), the Gladstone School District and TEAM Klamath.

More information and a downloadable application is available on the Business Oregon Web site. Applications must be received by 5 p.m., Tuesday, October 5, 2010. Applicants should expect a response approximately two months after the deadline.

For additional information, please contact Business Oregon's Mark Brady at .

Diamond Foods Announces $8 Million Kettle Chips Plant Expansion in Salem, Oregon

August 16, 2010

Expansion will generate 12 percent increase in production workforce and 25 percent increase in capacity

Diamond Foods Release

U.S. Commerce Secretary Selects Business Oregon Commissioner Chandra Brown to Serve on National Manufacturing Council

August 5, 2010

SALEM—Oregon business leader Chandra Brown, the President of United Streetcar, LLC, of Clackamas and an Oregon Business Development Commissioner, today was named a member of the national Manufacturing Council by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke.

Brown, who also serves as a Vice President at Oregon Iron Works, Inc. (OIW), the parent company of United Streetcar, is responsible for overall business development and marketing activities. She also is the primary point of contact for government policy and contract matters and she leads marketing efforts on behalf of OIW in the Pacific Northwest and Washington, D.C. Brown was one of two Oregonians to attend President Obama's Job Summit last December.

Secretary Locke named Brown as one of 24 members of the Manufacturing Council at a ceremony this afternoon at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Locke was joined by members of the Senate Manufacturing Caucus, including Sens. Debbie Stabenow (MI), Sherrod Brown (OH), Jeff Merkley (OR) and Tom Udall (NM).

The Manufacturing Council is comprised of two dozen private sector executives representing a balance of U.S. manufacturing industry sectors, geographic locations and business size. The council advises the Secretary of Commerce on matters relating to manufacturing sector competitiveness and government policies and programs that affect U.S. manufacturers.

"It is an honor to serve on the U.S. Manufacturing Council," said Brown. "The Pacific Northwest has a long history of excellence in manufacturing. I am proud to be able to assist this region and the United States as a whole in helping further develop the manufacturing sector and the jobs it creates."

United Streetcar, LLC, is the first U.S. manufacturer of streetcars in 58 years. The company is already working on orders for 13 streetcars for Portland and Tucson and it is working to secure more work from Seattle and Washington, D.C. Brown said more than 150 jobs may one day be created to build the streetcars at United's Clackamas plant. In addition, the majority of the streetcar supply chain is already in Oregon (including such local firms as Miles Fiberglass, Maranatha Electrical Construction Company, Fastenal, NW Rail Electric and Service Steel) and 70 percent of the streetcar consists of U.S.-made components.

Governor Ted Kulongoski appointed Brown to serve on the Oregon Business Development Commission in February of this year. Brown chairs the board of directors of the Pacific Northwest Defense Coalition (PNDC), which is a nonprofit focused on the advancement of defense industry-related work in the region. She also is a founding member and on the board of the Oregon Wave Energy Trust (OWET), a nonprofit with the goal of promoting the emerging wave energy industry to create jobs and opportunity in Oregon.

"Chandra Brown will make an excellent addition to the Manufacturing Council," said Governor Kulongoski. "Her expertise in manufacturing and business development will serve the council well and will further highlight all of the great business opportunities being created here in Oregon."

The Manufacturing Council was created to ensure regular communication between the Federal Government and the manufacturing sector, as well as to foster collaboration across all U.S. industry sectors to promote new ideas for continuously improving manufacturing competitiveness. The council also works to ensure that the U.S. remains the preeminent destination for investment in manufacturing throughout the world.

"Chandra Brown's appointment is good news for all Oregon businesses," said Tim McCabe, Director of Business Oregon. "There is no better advocate for Oregon and its vibrant manufacturing sector. Now, Oregon's attractive business profile will be raised to an even higher level before business leaders from across the U.S."

BOOST awards grants to two Oregon companies; 30 new jobs created

August 2, 2010

SALEM—Business Oregon today finalized the first BOOST grants to two Oregon businesses resulting in the creation of 30 new jobs at the firms.

Oregon Business Development Department (Business Oregon) officials gave final approval to a $50,000 grant to Miles Fiberglass & Composites, of Clackamas County to create 20 new jobs and a $25,000 grant to Lieb Foods, LLC, of Forest Grove to create 10 positions.

"Business Oregon's top priority is to help existing Oregon companies create and retain jobs for Oregonians," said Business Oregon Director Tim McCabe. "We have had a good response thus far to the new BOOST program, and I want to encourage Oregon businesses to visit our Web site or speak to a member of our team to find out how we can help grow your business."

Business Oregon officially launched BOOST—Building Opportunities for Oregon Small Business Today Fund—on June 1 to offer more financial resources to help Oregon small businesses access much needed capital. The Oregon State Legislature created BOOST earlier this year when it passed House Bill 3698 sponsored by House Majority Leader Rep. Mary Nolan of Portland. Interest in the program increased in July and Business Oregon has now received six loan applications totaling $500,000 as well as six grant requests, which if approved, will create 80 new jobs in the state.

"Since BOOST started, we've seen interest from small businesses in Oregon increase steadily, and results are already evident," said Nolan. "We don't intend for the public sector to be the primary issuer of credit to small businesses, but when banks are ignoring decent businesses, BOOST is exactly the right fix."

The program is designed to promote better access to working capital that results in immediate job growth and job retention. Business Oregon will provide small businesses both loans—for businesses seeking permanent working capital and grants—for businesses that can create new, permanent full-time jobs here in Oregon—under BOOST.

"We will be qualifying for this program by hiring a total of 20 people for the expansion of our Ice Energy product line, the United Streetcar component parts and Wind Turbine Field Service Repair Technicians division," said Lori Luchak, the President of Miles Fiberglass & Composites. "The BOOST grant allows us to continue to hire more people as we ramp up in each of these areas."

Miles Fiberglass, located in Happy Valley, produces composite and fiberglass products using a variety of techniques. Recently, the company, which employs about 75 workers, broadened its products into the renewable energy sector to include various wind industry components as well as well as providing contract repair service technicians. Some component parts that the company has the capability of producing include nacelles, blades and blade caddies.

Located in Forest Grove, Lieb Foods is a leading contract package manufacturer of high quality jams, sauces, and bottled teas and juices. The company employs about 60 people and its facility is USDA certified Organic. The BOOST grant of $25,000 will help defray the costs of creating 10 new jobs at the company's Oregon facility.

What Is BOOST?
The BOOST loan program is a revolving loan fund that provides up to $150,000 in fixed-rate financing for up to four years for small businesses with fewer than 100 employees in need of operating capital. Loan proceeds may be used to support daily operations such as rent or mortgage payments, utilities, marketing expenses and certain fixed assets including equipment. Participants must be a traded-sector business in manufacturing, processing or distribution. Loans must be secured with collateral.

The BOOST grant program will award grants as an incentive to Oregon businesses that create new, full-time jobs in Oregon. Businesses with 100 or fewer employees, must create and retain new full-time jobs for a period of at least six months, must be a traded-sector business in manufacturing, processing or distribution, and must demonstrate that comparable wages are provided to their employees. Up to $2,500 may be awarded to an applicant for each full-time job created and retained with an annual maximum of $50,000 per applicant in a calendar year.

Business Oregon Commissioner Junki Yoshida Honored by Japanese Foreign Minister

July 22, 2010

SALEM - The Japanese Government recently announced that it had awarded the Foreign Minister's Commendation to Oregon businessman Junki Yoshida.

The honor is awarded once a year to individuals and groups worldwide with outstanding contribution to the friendly relationship and mutual understanding between Japan and their countries.

Yoshida, 60, is the Chairman and CEO of Yoshida Group and a well-known businessman and philanthropist. He has contributed greatly by nurturing a good relationship between Oregon and Japan in various capacities, such as an advisor to Oregon's top public officials and a Port of Portland commissioner. Yoshida has served on the Oregon Business Development Commission since February 2008.

"We are very proud of Junki for receiving this award," said Tim McCabe, director of the Oregon Business Development Department (Business Oregon). "Junki has served Oregon and his community in so many positive ways through his volunteer service and his successful business ventures."

Through teaching karate and producing the famed line of Yoshida sauces, he has also promoted Japanese culture and food in the U.S. He is very active in giving lectures both in Japan and in the U.S. about his life story, inspiring many youths and encouraging mutual understanding between the two countries. The award ceremony for Mr. Yoshida will be held later this year.

Program Helps Communities Explore Renewable Energy Options

June 30, 2010

SALEM—Communities across Oregon will get some help this week in analyzing how renewable energy could be a part of their ongoing community development strategy.

Business Oregon's Infrastructure Finance Authority (IFA) has approved eight grants to Oregon communities through the Renewable Energy Feasibility (REF) fund. The funding authority was set up in 2006 under Executive Order by the Governor as a method to assist municipalities in financing renewable energy feasibility studies.

"As regions throughout the state look to renewable energy as part of their energy portfolio in the future, we wanted to make sure there was a resource to help with the necessary feasibility studies," said Lynn Schoessler, director of the IFA and deputy director of Business Oregon. "This program is a helpful component to the state's clean technology development strategy."

There has been great interest in the program thus far, Schoessler said. The fund has exhausted its allotted amount—which has ranged from $150,000 to $200,000—each year since its inception in 2006.

Under the REF rules, a renewable energy feasibility study provides an analytical assessment of the technical and economic viability of an existing or proposed publicly-owned facility or infrastructure project that uses renewable energy resources to generate electricity, heat and/or to manufacture a fuel. Renewable energy resources are defined as water, wind, geothermal, solar, biomass, waste materials or waste fuels.

REF applicants must clearly demonstrate that proposed feasibility studies encourage energy efficiency and address the cost-effective use of available renewable energy resources.

Only public entities such as cities, counties, tribes, ports and special districts are eligible to apply. Complete information on the program is available online at www.orinfrastructure.org.

Communities receiving this latest round of financing include:

Recommended for Funding ($158,000):
Douglas County—Wave Energy Project: $45,000 REF Grant, $15,000 local match, project total $60,000
Tillamook County—Tillamook Co Bio-energy Project: $20,000 REF Grant, $70,000 local match, project total $90,000
Baker County—Boiler Conversion Project: $25,000 REF Grant, $10,000 local match, project total $35,000
Tumalo Irrigation District—Columbia So. Lateral Hydro Project: $5,250 REF Grant, $1,750 local match, project total $7,000
City of Bandon—Fish Hatchery Hydro Pump Project: $7,500 REF Grant, $2,500 local match, project total $10,000
Rock Creek District Improvement Company—Rock Creek Hydroelectric Project: $5,250 REF Grant, $1,750 local match, project total $7,000
Hood River County—CBAB Courthouse Biomass Project: $20,000 REF Grant, $5,000 local match, project total $25,000
City of Medford—Facilities Solar Feasibility Project: $30,000 REF Grant, $10,000 local match, project total $40,000

Totals:
REF Grant $158,000; total local match $116,000; Total Funds $274,000

Business Oregon launches program promoting small business capital

June 1, 2010

Business Oregon has officially launched the BOOST program—Building Opportunities for Oregon Small Business Today Fund—to offer more financial resources to help Oregon small businesses access much needed capital.

The Oregon State Legislature created BOOST during its special session earlier this year when it passed House Bill 3698 sponsored by House Majority Leader Rep. Mary Nolan of Portland. The program, administered by the Oregon Business Development Department (Business Oregon), is designed to promote better access to working capital that results in immediate job growth and job retention. Business Oregon will provide small businesses with both loans for businesses seeking permanent working capital, and grants for businesses that can create new, permanent full-time jobs here in Oregon.

"Small business owners spoke, and we listened," said Majority Leader Nolan. "We heard time and time again that to create jobs for Oregonians we needed to increase access to working capital for Oregon small businesses. BOOST will help Oregon businesses hire Oregon workers."

Business Oregon officials began accepting applications for BOOST funding last Friday in conjunction with the end of the 90-day implementation period prescribed in the legislation.

The BOOST loan program is a revolving loan fund that provides up to $150,000 in fixed-rate financing for up to four years for small businesses with fewer than 100 employees in need of operating capital. Loan proceeds may be used to support daily operations such as rent or mortgage payments, utilities, marketing expenses and certain fixed assets including equipment. Participants must be a traded-sector business in manufacturing, processing or distribution. Loans must be secured with collateral.

The BOOST grant program will award and make grants as an incentive to Oregon businesses that create new, full-time jobs in Oregon. Businesses with 100 or fewer employees must create and retain new full-time jobs for a period of at least 6 months; must be a traded-sector business in manufacturing, processing or distribution; and must demonstrate that comparable wages are provided to their employees. Up to $2,500 may be awarded to an applicant for each full-time job created and retained, with an annual maximum of $50,000 per applicant in a calendar year.

"Business Oregon's number one priority is to do everything possible to help existing Oregon businesses retain their current workforce and to create new job opportunities for Oregonians," said Business Oregon Director Tim McCabe. "With the BOOST program, the Legislature has given us a very important tool we can use to help Oregon small businesses throughout the state."

For more information on BOOST and the resources available for Oregon businesses has been posted on our Web site.

Business Oregon releases 2009 Innovation Index

May 17, 2010

SALEM—Oregon maintained its "B" average in the latest evaluation of the Innovation Index, a key measure of the state's strengths and weaknesses in creating an innovation-based economy.

The state scored a 71 in the 2009 Oregon Innovation Index, which was released Monday by the Oregon Business Development Department. That grade is down five points from 2008, but still shows the state continues to perform above average on many of the benchmarks necessary for turning innovative research into new jobs and businesses, including: public-private partnerships for research and development; ready access to capital; statewide entrepreneurial networks, and targeted investments in emerging industries where Oregon has a global competitive advantage.

The state saw strong performance in the number of new university startups, which attempt to build companies around new research; the number of new patents issued; foreign exports, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and Research and development investments. But those positive indicators were offset with poor performance in the number of federal SBIR/STTR grants, which help new tech companies grow; venture capital Investments; new company creation, and average wage and technology sector employment.

"This year's index underscores the importance of innovation in state competitiveness and growth at a time when the national economy is recovering from The Great Recession," said Michael Anderson, economist for Business Oregon. "The results highlight the crucial need for Oregon to continue focusing on directed pro-innovation policies through organizations like the Oregon Innovation Council. Policies that support innovation foster job growth in the medium term and development in the long term."

The report also noted that key to building an innovation-based economy is creating an environment that can support it.

"That environment includes a strong educational system, from kindergarten through graduate schools; a dynamic workforce that creates new ideas, produces patents and creates marketable technologies; and enterprising businesses that create products and sell them to the world," the report found. "Oregon's innovation-based economy uses people, ideas and businesses to create the economy of the 21st century."

About the Report
Business Oregon and the Oregon Innovation Council (Oregon InC), a public-private partnership charged with creating an innovation-based economic strategy, identified key factors necessary for a healthy innovation economy. The first Innovation Index, published in 2004, evaluated nine indicators to track Oregon's progress. It was updated and expanded in 2007 to include 20 indicators to ensure that at each stage of the innovation process, the expected outcomes and the environment that leads to innovation were being measured. The 2009 Index continues the framework established two years ago and provides the most recent data for each of the indicators.

The Oregon Innovation Council ("Oregon InC") is a private-public statewide advisory council created by the 2005 Oregon Legislature and charged with developing a biennial public investment plan to stimulate economic development and job growth across the state. The council works in partnership with Business Oregon to create, retain, expand and attract businesses that provide sustainable, living-wage jobs for Oregonians through public-private partnerships, leveraged funding and support of economic opportunities for Oregon companies and entrepreneurs.

Business finance experts from around the U.S. to meet in Portland

May 10, 2010

PORTLAND—Business Oregon will host the nation's premiere event for hundreds of development finance officials from across the nation beginning today in Portland.

The 24th annual Development Finance Summit of the Council of Development Finance Agencies is being held at the Hilton Portland & Executive Tower on May 10-13.

The summit is the largest annual gathering of leaders and innovators in the development finance industry. Hundreds of finance professionals, who will be welcomed officially on Wednesday by Portland Mayor Sam Adams, from across the nation will explore the latest trends in the development finance industry.

"We are proud to host the top minds in development business finance and welcome them to Oregon," said Tim McCabe, the director of Business Oregon—the Oregon Business Development Department. "We are looking forward to sharing Oregon's business development success stories and to seizing the opportunity to learn from our colleagues across the nation."

On Wednesday, McCabe will be joined by Oregon Business Development Commission Chairman Wally Van Valkenburg, who will moderate a panel discussion of the Business Oregon Model of economic development. McCabe and Van Valkenburg will be joined by other top officials from Business Oregon in the discussion of Oregon's economic development strategies, its successes and the challenges that lie ahead.

In addition to the Business Oregon-led discussion, this year's program provides opportunities for attendees to address a diverse cross-section of development finance topics. The 2010 Annual Summit will touch on more than 25 different financing concepts, tools, programs, strategies and solutions to the challenges our industry faces. General sessions will provide overarching views of the entire development finance industry while the concurrent tracks will explore numerous finance concepts in-depth.

About CDFA
The Council of Development Finance Agencies is a national association dedicated to the advancement of development finance concerns and interests. CDFA is comprised of the nation's leading and most knowledgeable members of the development finance community representing more than 270 public, private and non-profit development entities. To learn more, please visit www.cdfa.net/.

Governor Kulongoski announces 2009 Oregon Sustainability Award Winners

April 19, 2010

Read the Governor's Office press release.

Oregon business leaders testify before U.S. International Trade Commission in Portland

March 12, 2010

Portland—State officials today testified before the U.S. International Trade Commission in Portland today on the challenges facing small- and medium-sized Oregon businesses that export goods and services.

Business Oregon Director Tim McCabe was joined by Katy Coba, director of the Oregon Department of Agriculture and Gregg Borossay, a Senior Manager in Trade & Carrier Development with the Port of Portland.

McCabe told the commissioners that Oregon's exports are a critical part of the state's economy and praised the current administration's efforts to double the nation's exports.

"I want to emphasize the critical importance of international trade and exports to Oregon's economy," said McCabe. "I applaud President Barack Obama's National Export Initiative and his desire to have the Export-Import Bank increase export financing for small- and mid-sized businesses and his proposal that the amount of credit available be increased to $6 billion in the next year."

McCabe said federal officials needed to look for opportunities to help small- and medium-sized businesses through more grants to allow them to market their manufactured goods at trade shows; improved federal-state collaboration in trade promotion programs; priority funding for the Foreign Commercial Service so it may reopen previously closed international offices; and by reducing "visa challenges" around the United States for foreign visitors.

The information gathered at the hearing will be used by the USITC to prepare two reports for the U.S. Trade Representative, the President's cabinet-level trade advisor. The reports will look at the characteristics of small- and medium-sized businesses that export goods and services, the impediments they face and strategies to overcome these constraints, and benefits of increased export opportunities.

The U.S. ITC held two public hearings nationwide, one in St. Louis and today's hearing in Portland.

Oregon Business Development Commissioner Steve Emery named Oregon State Small Business Person of the Year

March 9, 2010

SALEM—Oregon Business Development Commissioner Steve Emery has been chosen as the 2010 Oregon Small Business Person of the Year by the US Small Business Administration.

The SBA recognized Emery's achievements as president and CEO of the Culver, Oregon-based Earth2o water company. Earth2o bottles and distributes pure 100% natural spring water, sourced directly from the aquifer that feeds Opal Springs.

"We are very proud of Steve for winning this honor," said Tim McCabe, Director of the Oregon Business Development Department. "Steve has served the state for the last three years as OBD commissioner and brought a critical perspective and good ideas to our efforts to retain and create jobs for Oregonians."

Earth2o is the top selling spring water in the Pacific Northwest and the third largest branded water sold. Emery joined Earth2o in 1999, after serving as Vice President/General Manager for Columbia Distributing in Portland from 1994 to 1998. He has more than 11 years experience in regional and international sales and marketing for wine distributors as well.

"It is an incredible honor for myself and the employees of Earth2o," said Emery. "Like most small businesses in our state, our success hasn't come without its challenges. During this time we have stayed true to our core beliefs of providing a natural product in the most sustainable way possible with strong support for our community. We are fortunate that the Northwest distributors, retailers and consumers share those values which have led to the success of our brand."

Emery served as the past Chairman of the Governor's Small Business Council and acted as the director of two non-profit organizations: The Freshwater Trust and the National Spring Water Association. He was appointed by the Governor to oversee the Oregon Nanotechnology and Microtechnology budget, converting University research into commercial applications.

As an award winner, Emery has been invited to participate in events for National Small Business Week 2010 this May in Washington, D.C.

Earth-pure, Northwest-perfect, Earth2o is 100% natural spring water sourced from a single pristine location in Opal Springs, OR. It is one of the world's best waters by nature: unprocessed, unmanipulated, naturally filtered by thousands of layers of volcanic basalt native to the area. Earth2o's core company principles of sustainability, responsibility and service to the community turn a respect for nature into exemplary business practices. See more of our story at www.earth20.com

Business Oregon and Ferrotec announce plans for Portland solar manufacturing plant at PV EXPO 2010 show in Tokyo

March 2, 2010

TOKYO—The director of the Oregon Business Development Department, Tim McCabe, and officials from Ferrotec, a world leader in the manufacturing of Single Crystal Si Growing System and Quartz Crucible, today announced the planned opening of the company's new solar crucible manufacturing plant in a suburb of Portland, Oregon.

The Ferrotec Portland area plant will open in mid-2010 and will producing quartz crucibles to support Oregon's established and rapidly growing solar manufacturing. The company is locating in Birtcher Center at Townsend Way in Fairview, located in the business park certified through the Governor's Industrial Site Certification program in 2004. The company estimates the Oregon plant will employ 30 full time employees after the start up phase. Ferrotec is designing the plant to provide rapid response to the growing Oregon and West Coast solar industry. Quartz crucibles are essential components of the ingot manufacturing process and Oregon has over 425 MW of Crystalline solar manufacturing capacity currently in production with additional capacity scheduled for the near future.

"This is great news for Oregon and for our growing solar industry," said McCabe, who was attending the third annual Tokyo PV Exposition along with Ferrotec officials. "Market leaders such as Ferrotec are a critical piece of our investment plans to grow Oregon's solar industry. Oregon is committed to shortening the supply chain, driving costs down and growing demand."

Ferrotec officials said Oregon had beaten out competing states to land the manufacturing facility.

"After investigating a number of potential locations for establishing a facility in the United States, we selected Oregon for its combination of business opportunities, support structure and incentives necessary to make our investment a success, said Akira Yamamura, president of Ferrotec Corporation. "We look forward to working with Oregon in the coming months as we become part of their expanding solar manufacturing community and make this new facility a reality."

Ferrotec's Oregon plant qualifies for the state of Oregon's aggressive solar manufacturing and business start up incentives. The state of Oregon has one of the most effective solar manufacturing incentive packages in the U.S. and is in the top ten in overall renewable investments. Ferrotec officials said support from state government played a critical role in the company's decision to locate its operation in Oregon.

About Ferrotec
Founded in 1980, Ferrotec Corporation (JASDAQ: 6890 (OTC) is a worldwide leader in the supply of materials, components and precision system solutions for businesses and products. For additional information about Ferrotec products, visit the company's web site at www.ferrotec.co.jp

Oregon Senate approves appointment of Chandra Brown and Gregory Semler to Oregon Business Development Commission

February 25, 2010

Business Oregon Director Tim McCabe today announced the appointment of two new members to the Oregon Business Development Commission.

"I am very excited about the addition of Chandra Brown, of Oregon Iron Works, and Gregory Semler, of Pivotal Investments, to the Oregon Business Development Commission," McCabe said. "These two business leaders will bring expertise and vision to the guidance of Business Oregon's efforts to retain and create jobs for Oregonians."

The Oregon Senate formally approved Governor Ted Kulongoski's appointment of Brown and Semler on February 8. Both new commissioners will begin serving at the commission's March 19 meeting in Newport.

Brown, whose term will expire in June 2011, has worked for Oregon Iron Works, Inc., for the past 16 years and has held a variety of positions during her tenure with the company. She is currently OIW's Vice President of Special Projects, Marketing & Security, as well as President of United Streetcar; OIW's wholly-owned subsidiary.

Brown is responsible for overall administrative, operational and marketing activities for all OIW Special Projects. She also is the primary point of contact for all Congressional Marketing activities and she markets on behalf of OIW in Washington, D.C. In the past several years, she has helped secure more than $40 million dollars in federal appropriations and has assisted in raising OIW's profile to be one of the 10 Overall Most Admired Companies in Oregon as published in the Portland Business Journal.

In addition to her work at OIW, she serves on many non-profit boards and does community volunteer work. She is on the board of directors and chairs the Pacific Northwest Defense Coalition (PNDC), which is a non-profit for the advancement of defense work in the region. In 2005 she also was appointed to the Oregon Innovation Council (OR Inc.) by Oregon's Governor, Ted Kulongoski. She is a founding member and on the board of the Oregon Wave Energy Trust (OWET), a non-profit with the goal of promoting the emerging wave energy industry to create jobs and opportunity in Oregon. She also serves on an arts advocacy board, the Creative Advocacy Network, created in 2008, the Oregon Women MBAs board, and has served on OMSI's gala committee.

Semler, whose term will expire in June 2013, is the co-founder of the first clean technology venture fund in the Northwest. Portland, Oregon-based Pivotal Investments is the first venture capital firm in the Northwest focused on delivering superior financial return through investments in companies that will be leaders in the emerging sustainable economy.

Prior to founding Pivotal Investments, Semler was a clean technology entrepreneur with more than 20 years of chief executive experience at advanced technology companies. His experience includes successfully financing high-growth companies, executive recruitment, management of product development efforts, acquisitions, strategic alliances, OEM partnerships and direct-to-consumer marketing and distribution.

Semler has been operating clean technology companies since 2000, most recently as president and CEO of ClearEdge Power, a Portland, Oregon-based privately financed company creating fuel cells for industrial and residential power applications. Before that, he was the President and Chief Executive Officer of PolyFuel, a Silicon Valley company creating fuel cells for portable, and consumer electronics applications.

Business Oregon Director responds to Chicago Mayor Daley's recent criticism of Oregon's business climate

February 5, 2010

SALEM, OR—Business Oregon Director Tim McCabe has sent a letter to Chicago Mayor Richard J. Daley in response to his recent criticism of Oregon's business climate:

February 5, 2010

Dear Honorable Mayor Daley:

On behalf of all Oregonians, and in particular state business development officials such as myself, I want to thank you for your recent remarks about Oregon's business climate. We truly appreciate your good sportsmanship and sense of humor when you said the recent vote by Oregonians to raise business and certain income taxes was good news for the Windy City. In fact, you went as far as to vow to visit our state to snag a few unhappy Oregon companies and bring them back to the Land of Lincoln.

Let me welcome you by letting you know about a few things you might find upon your arrival. First, in case you have forgotten, we have no sales tax here in Oregon. Second, our property taxes, in particular those on commercial properties, are some of the lowest in the nation. Finally, I am sure you know that the Tax Foundation's recent 2010 Business Tax Climate report found Oregon to be the 14th best state in the nation in which to do business. And, yes, that was after our voters passed the tax increases.

Before you arrive, perhaps you can verify for me some facts about the business climate in your neck of the woods. Illinois ranks 30th in the same 2010 Business Tax Climate report, correct? You have some of the highest property taxes in the nation (12th) and a state sales tax (6.25%) that ranks as the 10th highest in the nation. Of course, Chicago has the highest sales tax (10.25%) of any major U.S. city and parts of Cook County levy an 11.5% sales tax. Illinois also has the 5th highest unemployment insurance tax in the U.S. I just want to make very sure I have my facts straight when Oregon business leaders ask me about the advantages they will enjoy when they join you in Illinois.

We here in Oregon want to thank you for highlighting our state's positive business climate. Did you think Oregon business owners would not realize how much more expensive it would be to operate in Chicago? We are happy to have you draw even more attention to the fact that Oregon is home to more solar manufacturers than any place in North America and was 4th in the nation last year in adding new wind energy capacity.

I look forward to meeting you and buying you a tasty Oregon beer during your visit (yes, the Portland metro area has more breweries than any place in the world) and telling you more of the many reasons why Oregon is a great place to live and to do business.

All the best,
Tim McCabe, Director
Oregon Business Development Department—Business Oregon

Facebook Picks Prineville

January 21, 2010

Please visit the Governor's web site to view the press release.

Recovery Act grant awards for green jobs training

January 20, 2010

Please visit the Governor's web site to view the release.

Newly formed Oregon Broadband Advisory Council to meet January 28

January 11, 2010

(Salem)—The newly created Oregon Broadband Advisory Council is scheduled to meet in Salem on January 28, 2009. The council's mission is to develop and ensure the implementation of statewide broadband strategies with a focus on extending broadband access to underserved populations across Oregon. The council also is charged with reporting to the legislature on the affordability and accessibility of broadband technology in all areas of the state and on the extent of broadband technology use in healthcare, energy management, education and government.

The council members represent leaders from Oregon's cities, counties, telecommunications service providers, Tribes, educators, economic development organizations, public safety agencies, healthcare providers, e-government, the Public Utility Commission and the Oregon Legislature.

The January 28 agenda will include council mission and legislative charge, federal broadband stimulus programs, Oregon broadband initiatives and strategic planning. State Rep. Jefferson Smith will also address the council. The meeting will be held in the State Lands Building at 775 Summer Street NE in Salem.

The council members appointed by Gov. Ted Kulongoski are:
   Rich Bader, EasyStreet Online Services
   Ray Baum, Public Utility Commission
   Jonathan Dolan, Oregon State University
   Miles Ellenby, Oregon Health and Science University
   Joe Franell, Eastern Oregon Telecom
   Kathy George, Yamhill County Commission
   Adam Gryzbicki, AT&T
   Mary Beth Henry, City of Portland
   Jeff Johnson, Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue
   Lonny Macy, Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs
   Dugan Petty. State of Oregon, Chief Information Officer
   Dave Sabala, Douglas Electric Cooperative

Other council members include State Senator Ted Ferrioli appointed by the President of the Senate and State Representative Tobias Read appointed by the Speaker of the House.

Certification of Tribal Industrial Land is a first for the state of Oregon

January 5, 2010

SALEM, OR—The 60-acre Coyote Business Park, owned by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), has become the first certified industrial site located on Tribal Trust land in the state of Oregon, state business development officials announced.

The newly certified site, located just east of Pendleton is part of a larger 520-acre parcel located directly off Interstate 84—a strategic location for companies looking to manufacture and distribute products throughout the Pacific Northwest. The site is certified for warehouse distribution, general manufacturing and call center development. The tribally-owned site is the latest example of the successful economic development program at CTUIR. Previously, the Tribes successfully recruited health care and technology firms to the adjacent Coyote Business Park North.

"Getting Coyote Business Park certified is recognition that we have an outstanding location and we're ready to do business," said William Tovey, Economic Development Director for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

"Certified industrial sites are attractive to site selectors and developers because they provide more certainty to the development process," said Tim McCabe, Director of Business Oregon, which manages the program. "This is an historic and an exciting addition to Oregon's certified industrial lands. It makes a lot of sense to work to expand our mutually beneficial relationship with our nine sovereign Tribes."

For additional information about industrial site certification, please contact Business Oregon's Michael Williams at . For additional information about Coyote Business Park, contact Lisa Breckenridge at the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation or call .

Governor awards grant to Novellus Systems for workforce training; company plans to create more than 100 new jobs in Tualatin

December 17, 2009

SALEM—State officials today announced Governor Ted Kulongoski's recent award of a grant from the state's Strategic Reserve Fund to Novellus Systems, Inc., intended to help offset workforce training costs associated with the company's announced consolidation of its manufacturing operations in Tualatin.

The company's consolidation is expected to result in the creation of more than 100 new jobs at its Tualatin facility. Novellus Systems, Inc., was founded in 1984 in San Jose, California, and is a leading provider of advanced thin film deposition and surface preparation equipment used in fabricating integrated circuits for the global semiconductor industry. The company has maintained a plant in Tualatin since 2000.

"This is great news for Oregon and our advanced manufacturing sector," said Governor Kulongoski, in announcing the award. "Technology leaders such as Novellus remain an integral part of one of Oregon's key industry sectors, and we have every intention of helping those companies expand here."

The Strategic Reserve Fund grant will help offset a small portion of the training costs associated with Novellus Systems' investment in Oregon. The state will forgive repayment of the award based on new jobs created and maintained at the Tualatin site through mid-2012. Novellus Systems has an extensive in-house training program in Tualatin, and plans to train new employees there.

State officials said Novellus' decision would help shore up Oregon's critical advanced manufacturing base.

"We continue to focus our economic development efforts on helping existing Oregon companies grow and prosper, said Business Oregon Director Tim McCabe. "The recent predictions of an end to Oregon's advanced manufacturing leadership are obviously false given Novellus' decision to increase its investment and expand its manufacturing operations here in Tualatin."

Novellus officials said support from state government played a critical role in the company's decision to expand its Tualatin operations.

"The consolidation of our manufacturing operations in Oregon was enabled by the foresight of the Oregon Governor and Legislature to support business in their state," said Rick Hill, CEO and Chairman of the Board for Novellus Systems. "Novellus is an international company, supported by a global workforce. Our employees live and work around the world, and our ability to maintain their employment is paramount to us. Our search for business-friendly environments throughout the world is never-ending, since it is essential that we remain competitive for our employees and shareholders. We will continue to migrate our business infrastructure to regions where government supports job growth. Oregon has taken a major step to help companies compete abroad, and their support is a great first step in helping to maintain employment here in the U.S."

Novellus has engineering and manufacturing facilities in San Jose, California, and Tualatin, Oregon, as well as sales and service operations in 13 countries.

Governor announces appointments to new Broadband Advisory Council

December 16, 2009

Salem—Governor Ted Kulongoski today announced appointments to the newly-created Oregon Broadband Advisory Council. The council's mission is to develop and ensure the implementation of a statewide broadband network with a focus on extending broadband access to unserved and underserved communities across Oregon.

"This new council will be charged with ensuring that citizens in every corner of our state can take full advantage of the commerce, education, and health and safety benefits that broadband Internet access provides," Governor Kulongoski said. "The group also will encourage public-private partnerships to promote the deployment of broadband technology."

The legislature created the council during the 2009 legislatives session under HB 3158. It is charged with reporting to the legislature on the affordability and accessibility of broadband technology in all areas of the state and on the extent of broadband technology use across sectors, including healthcare, energy, education and government.

The members of the council are:
   Rich Bader, EasyStreet Online Services
   Ray Baum, Public Utility Commission
   Jonathan Dolan, Oregon State University
   Miles Ellenby, Oregon Health and Science University
   Joe Franell, Eastern Oregon Telecom   Adam Gryzbicki, AT&T
   Mary Beth Henry, City of Portland
   Jeff Johnson, Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue
   Lonny Macy, Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs
   Dugan Petty, State of Oregon, Chief Information Officer
   Dave Sabala, Douglas Electric Cooperative

Other council members are Senator Ted Ferrioli appointed by the President of the Senate and Representative Tobias Read appointed by the Speaker of the House.

Council meetings will commence in January and will be open to the public.

For more information, contact Chris Tamarin, telecommunications liaison for the state of Oregon by email or by calling .

Governor announces Recovery Act Grant for wood pellet facility in John Day

November 10, 2009

press release

Applications for the Governor's 2009 Annual Sustainability Awards now being accepted

November 9, 2009

SALEM, OR—Applications for the 2009 Governor's Sustainability Awards are now being accepted by Business Oregon on behalf of the Governor and the Oregon Sustainability Board.

Oregonians have always put great value on the long-term health of the environment in which they live, work and play, and therefore take a long-term view when making investments in economic development. Sustainability is an integrated concept in the strategic planning of most Oregon organizations and companies, but some are truly moving to the head of the pack. Governor Ted Kulongoski created the Sustainability Awards to recognize those outstanding efforts.

The Governor's Sustainability Awards are intended to promote and advance the inclusion of sustainable practices in government and the private sector. Any private, public or non-profit organization is eligible to apply. Awards will be given based on merit, but organizations may be grouped by size and/or type in order to make comparing applicants more efficient and appropriate.

Winners must show a commitment to sustainability that goes beyond compliance with regulatory requirements. Winners will be innovators in their fields and show that becoming more sustainable is not in conflict with achieving the organization's core mission, whatever that may be. The Awards broadly defines sustainable practices as those that strive to optimize an organization's financial, environmental and social performance.

Last year's winners were Sokol Blosser Winery, Full Sail Brewing, Klamath Brewing, New Seasons Market, ShoreBank Enterprise Cascadia and the Eugene 2008 Olympic Trial Committee.

For more information, a downloadable application or to nominate a business, please visit the Sustainability Awards page. Applications must be received by 5 p.m., Monday, November 30, 2009. Applicants should expect a response approximately one month after the deadline. For additional information, please contact Business Oregon's Mark Brady at .

Oregon Main Street Program announces new state coordinator

November 6, 2009

Salem—The Oregon Main Street Program is pleased to announce the hiring of Sheri Stuart as the new Oregon Main Street Coordinator. Sheri has the experience and creativity to assist Oregon communities with the Main Street Approach^TM and help build Oregon's program to be one of the best in the Nation.

Ms. Stuart brings nineteen years of downtown revitalization experience to her new position with Oregon Main Street. She began her career as the executive director of the Port Townsend Main Street Program in Washington State. Under her leadership, the program received numerous state awards and the downtown saw 42 net new businesses started, 154 net new jobs created and close to $3 million in rehabilitation investment. Ms. Stuart also worked as a program officer with the National Trust Main Street Center for eight years where she was responsible for coordinating and delivering technical services to small- and mid-sized communities and urban neighborhood districts across the country. Most recently she was the assistant coordinator of the Washington State Main Street Program.

Gary Van Huffel, the coordinator from 2008 and 2009, observed great interest from Oregon communities to revitalize their downtowns during this economic recession, increased self-reliance by local communities, renewed awareness of local heritage and dedicated volunteers. The Main Street Approach works because it is a practical program that helps communities build on their unique assets and values.

Currently, there are 63 cities and communities participating in one of the three levels of Oregon Main Street: Performing Main Street, Transforming Downtown and Exploring Downtown. Starting in 2008, these communities participated in regional training workshops and were assisted in starting, organizing and planning their local program. Technical assistance was provided with historic surveys, community assessments, resource team visits, market analysis and architectural design. Communities as small as Mitchell (pop. 175) or as large as Salem (pop. 155,000) are using this assistance in this current economy to support and strengthen their downtown businesses.

The Oregon Main Street program is jointly housed with Oregon Business Development Department and the State Historic Preservation Office (Oregon Parks and Recreation Department) and is a coordinating member of the National Trust Main Street Center. The Main Street Approach^TM is a comprehensive downtown revitalization program that uses historic preservation as one of its most important tools. The state program assists communities in the revitalization of their unique downtown places using this proven approach.

Call for Renewable Energy Feasibility Fund project proposals

November 4, 2009

The Infrastructure Finance Authority (IFA) will accept proposals for project funding from the Renewable Energy Feasibility Fund (REFF) until 5 p.m., December 15, 2009. The fund provides grants and loans from the Special Public works Fund to help public agencies finance renewable energy feasibility studies.

Feasibility studies should determine the viability of potential municipally-owned projects that could use renewable energy resources for: generating electricity, heat or manufacturing an alternative fuel such as ethanol or biodiesel.

Renewable energy resources are defined as:

water
wind
geothermal
solar
biomass
waste materials
waste fuels

Successful implementation of feasibility studies by Oregon municipalities can contribute to the reduction of Oregon's dependence on fossil-based energy sources.

Public agencies that are eligible to apply for the loans and grants include:

cities;
counties;
county service districts;
tribal councils;
ports;
special districts as defined in ORS 198.010; and
airport districts.

The maximum grant award is $50,000 or 75 percent of total project cost whichever is less. A total up to $200,000 will be available in this 2009 Call for Proposals. Applications (Intake Forms) will be used to determine which proposals will be invited to submit a complete application for funding consideration.

All inquiries should be directed to the IFA regional coordinator responsible for your region. REF Fund program information, the application form and resources are available on the IFA Web site.

Business Oregon unveils new Web site

October 7, 2009

SALEM—Business Oregon has launched an updated Web site at www.oregon4biz.com. The site profiles Oregon's business environment, its competitive advantages, key industries, as well as services and programs available through Business Oregon, the state's business development agency.

The site also is connected to its "sister" site, at www.orinfrastructure.org, which covers the community development programs and services of the state's new Infrastructure Finance Authority.

"The new site can tell our story in a much more compelling way, and use some of the projects we've worked on to highlight our success, and the success companies can find here in Oregon," said Business Oregon Director Tim McCabe. "We looked at other economic and business development websites from other states as well as countries, and believe the new site challenges them all as a compelling and concise communications tool for doing business in Oregon."

The new Web site's features include:

A modern graphic design, intended to integrate high-tech/innovative feel, with a natural, active, outdoor image to better fit the brand image of Oregon;
A balance of information on Oregon as a globally competitive business location, the services Business Oregon can offer, and the services the Infrastructure Finance Authority can offer;
More dynamic content, such as an interactive map with examples of Business Oregon projects around the state;
Specific program information presented in a more user-friendly and intuitive way than ever before;
A mobile-friendly version of the site; and
An exciting new Desktop application that users can keep running in the background on their computers, with contact info, news feeds, events and a calendar.

Concurrent Notice of Public Hearing and Public Comment Period

October 7, 2009

The Oregon Business Development Department (OBDD), Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) and the Oregon Department of Human Services are seeking public comment on the proposed 2010 Action Plan relating to funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG), Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME), Housing Opportunities for Persons with HIV/AIDs (HOPWA) and the Emergency Shelter Grant Program (ESG). The three agencies are jointly submitting the 2010 Action Plan, which includes the proposed 2010 CDBG Method of Distribution to HUD for a variety of housing and community development activities. Descriptions of the activities are contained within the plans.

The agencies are seeking public comment on these plans through October 9, 2009. A public hearing will be held at 12:00 pm on October 7, 2009, at OBDD, 775 Summer Street, NE, Salem, Oregon, in conference room 201. The draft plans can be accessed from the Community Development Block Grant program web page or from Housing and Community Services Web site.

Written comments on the proposed 2010 Action Plan will be received until 5:00 pm on October 9, 2009. Comments regarding the CDBG Method of Distribution can be forwarded to Mary Baker, OBDD, PO Box 866, Klamath Falls, Oregon 97601 or by email at . Comments regarding the Action Plan can be forwarded to Loren Schultz, OHCS, 725 Summer Street NE, Suite B, Salem, Oregon 97301 or by email at .

Infrastructure Finance Authority Board named; will hold inaugural meeting October 23

October 6, 2009

SALEM—Governor Ted Kulongoski has completed the appointment of an independent, nine-member Infrastructure Finance Authority Board to oversee financing of community development and infrastructure projects across Oregon.

The IFA Board will hold its inaugural meeting at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, October 23 at the Oregon Business Development Department offices in Salem.

The new board, established by the Oregon Legislature's passage of HB 2152 earlier this year, will help oversee the work of the Infrastructure Finance Authority (IFA), the new community development arm of Business Oregon—the Oregon Business Development Department. The Governor recommended creation of the IFA in 2008 as a way to better administer the infrastructure programs serving Oregon communities.

"We needed a better way to identify and prioritize the infrastructure needs of our communities across the state," Kulongoski said. "The Authority and its board—with expertise on what communities need to thrive, as well as in public finance, will ensure that limited state resources are invested wisely and leverage the most federal and private funds as possible."

Under the legislation, Governor Kulongsoki appointed six members of the Infrastructure Finance Authority Board. An additional three members were appointed by State Treasurer Ben Westlund, Senate President Peter Courtney and House Speaker Dave Hunt. Lynn Schoessler will serve as executive director of the IFA. Schoessler previously headed Business Oregon's Community Development Division.

"For the first time, a specific entity has been named to address the infrastructure finance needs of the state," said Schoessler. "This is new for Oregon and follows the approach of many western states. The board also makes program policy, so state programs can be reviewed and improved if necessary.

Schoessler said since the legislature has representation on the board, the hope is their more direct involvement will result in an even greater understanding of the infrastructure needs of Oregon communities.

"I believe that with these experienced stakeholders as members of the IFA Board, there will be more collaboration concerning what projects are funded and a greater sense of accountability in funding community development projects," said Business Oregon Director Tim McCabe. "I am excited about this new collaboration and confident in the skills of IFA Executive Director Schoessler to deliver a new standard of service and results statewide."

The New IFA Board members are:

Erik J. Andersson of Portland. Erik is an economic development manager at Pacific Power. Previously, he worked for five years for Governor Ted Kulongoski and in economic development posts for the state and Jefferson County.
Daniel T. Bradley of Silverton. Daniel has served as the general manager of the Oak Lodge Water District since 2003. Prior to that, he was the general manager of the South Fork Water Board for seven years. He also served on the Oregon Health Division's Drinking Water Advisory Committee for nearly a decade.
Gary D. Neal of Boardman. Gary has served as the general manager of the Port of Morrow for the last 20 years. He also is a board member of the Bank of Eastern Oregon and the Oregon Ports Association. Gary will bring valuable and direct experience with infrastructure financing to the board.
Jon. S. Nelson of Corvallis. Jon has served as Corvallis city manager since 1993. Prior to that post, he served as city manager of Pendleton for eight years. His background brings valuable local government perspective to the IFA Board.
Carol E. Samuels of Portland. Carol is Senior Vice-President for Public Finance at Seattle-NW Securities Corporation. Carol also served in a similar position at U.S. Bank of Oregon. She is an expert on financing the needs of public and local government districts and brings a strong understanding of investors' needs to the board.
Don A. Lindly of Newport. Don has served as a Lincoln County Commissioner since 1991. Don also was a past president of the Association of Oregon Counties and headed the AOC's Economic Development Committee.
Laura Lockwood-McCall Director of the Oregon Debt Management Division. Lockwood-McCall is a respected industry veteran with more than 20 years of municipal financing experience in four states. She has been director of the Treasury's debt management office since 2004. She was appointed by State Treasurer Ben Westlund.
State Representative Terry Beyer of Springfield. In 2007, Rep. Beyer was re-elected to serve a fourth full term in House District 12 (Springfield). In the Seventy fifth Legislative Assembly, Rep. Beyer served as Chair of the House Transportation Committee and as a member of the Agriculture, Natural Resources and Rural Communities Committee and the Ways and Means Sub-Committee on Transportation and Economic Development.
State Senator Frank Morse of Albany. Senator Morse was born and raised in Lebanon. He entered the Morse Bros. family business in 1972. He has been the Albany Division Manager, Vice President of Operations, Executive Vice President, President and then Chairman. When Morse Bros. merged with MDU Resources Group, he continued as President until he retired in 2000.

Business Oregon awards $3.5 million in Federal Recovery Grants for community development projects

August 25, 2009

SALEM—Business Oregon announced it has awarded $3.56 million in federal recovery dollars to three Oregon communities under the Community Development Block Grant program.

The federal grants, funded from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), will help construct a senior citizens center in Silverton, improve the wastewater system in the city of Haines and provide a new drinking water reservoir for the Hebo Water Authority in Tillamook County.

"These stimulus dollars will help create dozens of family wage jobs in Oregon communities when they need them most," said Governor Kulongoski. "Community development block grant funds will help these communities have safe and clean drinking water and community facilities for their citizens."

"These projects are planned, designed and ready to go," said Lynn Schoessler, Executive Director of the Business Oregon's Infrastructure Finance Authority.

The Recovery Act grant of $1.2 million will allow the city of Silverton to construct a 4,000- to 5,000-square-foot senior center with modern and efficient commercial kitchen, larger dining area and offices for center staff. The city, in partnership with Silverton Area Seniors, currently serves the city's senior population in a leased 800-square-foot space located downtown. The existing facility is too small and not conducive for redevelopment.

The city of Haines in northeastern Oregon will use $1.25 million in recovery funds to make mandated improvements to its wastewater system in accordance with Oregon Department of Environmental Quality standards. The improvements include: wastewater treatment and storage improvements, effluent disposal system replacement and irrigation pumping, improved piping and valve repairs, dike repairs, new chlorination system and primary lift station upgrades.

The Hebo Joint Water and Sanitary Improvement Authority, located in Tillamook County, currently has inadequate and unsafe drinking water storage and treatment. Currently, the authority utilizes three, welded steel tanks salvaged from the Mt. Hebo Air Force Base which together provide 133,333 gallons of storage, but are estimated to be over 40 years old. The $1.216 million in recovery grant dollars will fund construction of a new 310,000-gallon reservoir, chemical feed building and replace equipment, a transmission line, pressure reducing valves, as well as water meters.

In addition to the Recovery Act Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) awards, the Infrastructure Finance Authority also announced regular quarterly CDBG awards totaling $2.39 million to six Oregon communities. Business Oregon will hold full and half day CDBG training workshops in Salem on September 15-16 and in Pendleton on September 17-18 for city and county officials and grant administrators as well as CDBG-funded construction contractors.

Since the early 1980's, the Infrastructure Finance Authority, formerly the state's Community Development Division, has administered the state of Oregon's CDBG program with funding from HUD. The program serves non-metropolitan cities and counties of Oregon. The IFA reviews applications for funding under the CDBG program on a quarterly basis or until all funds available for the year have been obligated.

Community Development Block Grants 2nd Quarter 2009 Project Summaries

City of Klamath Falls—$800,000:
The city of Klamath Falls is proposing to assist Klamath Family Head Start acquire the building they currently lease in order to make improvements. Acquisition of the building will lower their monthly operating expenses and allow for further improvements. The city will combine the $800,000 grant with $1,419,500,000 of matching funds to acquire the property.

City of Amity—$1.0 Million:
The city of Amity owns and operates a municipal wastewater treatment which has exceeded the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit (NPDES) issued by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The DEQ approved wastewater facilities plan identifies several improvements needed to comply with the NPDES permit. The city will combine the $1,000,000 grant with $406,160 in matching funds to design and construct these necessary improvements.

City of Glendale—$54,000:
The city of Glendale operates a municipal wastewater treatment and collection, which receives an excess amount of infiltration and inflow which has caused numerous National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit violations. The city of Glendale previously applied for and received a $96,000 CDBG grant for the completion of a wastewater facilities plan needed to fulfill a requirement mandated by Oregon DEQ. The city will combine this $54,000 grant increase with $1,000 of locally committed funds to complete the environmental report and geotechnical analysis on the wastewater treatment plant site.

City of Richland—$101,200:
The city owns and operates a municipal non-discharging lagoon and collection system operated under a Water Pollution Control Facilities (WPCF) permit. The original wastewater system was constructed in the 1970's. The pumps are old requiring continual maintenance and the lagoons are near capacity. The city needs a wastewater facilities plan to develop recommendations of upgrading and improving the system. The city will use this award to procure the services of a professional engineering firm to prepare a DEQ approved wastewater facilities plan.

City of Port Orford—$134,309:
The city of Port Orford has a small water impoundment area on the North Fork of Hubbard Creek. This water source is inadequate in meeting the needs of the city residents, especially during the summer months when the creek runs dry and the water level with the impoundment decreases. This project is part of the city's approved water master plan. The city needs to complete the preliminary engineering for a larger impoundment area in the same location. The city will combine the award with $62,591 in matching funds to complete the necessary engineering work.

City of Rogue River—$300,000:
The city has requested the award to fund improvements to their downtown plaza including streets, lighting, curbs, gutters, sidewalks and tree wells. The proposed project will complete improvements identified in the Downtown Conceptual Design in the city's Revitalization Plan prepared by Oregon Downtown Development Association.

Legislature Passes Bill Renaming and Reorganizing State's Economic Development Efforts

July 1, 2009

The Oregon State Legislature has approved legislation (HB 2152) renaming the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department and refocusing its efforts to help existing Oregon businesses retain and create jobs as well as to build vital infrastructure in communities across the state.

Upon the signature of Gov. Ted Kulongoski, the department will be renamed the Oregon Business Development Department, also to be known as Business Oregon. Gov. Kulongoski proposed the reorganization of the department last year in an Executive Order with the goal of giving the agency a more strategic focus on the needs of existing Oregon businesses.

"I am very pleased that the department has completed its reorganization plan and received legislative approval," said Kulongoski. "I recommended the changes so that the new Oregon Business Development Department can be even more effective in helping existing Oregon businesses create and save jobs. I look forward now to working closely with Business Oregon officials to do just that."

Business Oregon Director Tim McCabe said the agency's strategic aim will focus more intensely than ever on assisting existing Oregon businesses to create and retain jobs for Oregonians.

"The agency has a long, successful history of creating jobs and helping communities across the state," McCabe said. "Now, more than ever, as we prepare to move out of the current recession, we will help Oregon businesses grow and compete in the 21st century economy."

In addition, as part of the agency realignment, the department's community development activities will now be administered separately by a newly formed Infrastructure Finance Authority (IFA). The IFA was created to ensure that the state's infrastructure needs, namely those around safe drinking water and wastewater systems, were better identified and prioritized in order to ensure the best use of the state's limited resources. The Authority will be overseen by members of an independent Infrastructure Finance Authority board appointed by the Governor.

Four New Members Appointed to State Small Business Advisory Council

June 30, 2009

The Oregon Small Business Advisory Council (OSBAC) recently elected small business owner Stephanie Bailey to serve as its chairperson through July 2012. Bailey, who has served as interim chairperson since March, owns Innovative Market Strategies, a marketing and public relations firm in Klamath Falls.

"I am extremely honored to have been chosen to lead this group of dedicated small business owners," stated Bailey. "We are enthusiastic and committed to raising awareness of issues impacting small businesses across Oregon."

Bailey is one of the inaugural members of the OSBAC and prior to her appointment served as a member of the Governor's Small Business Council for three and a half years. Bailey's company provides marketing services to small businesses and communities in southern Oregon and northern California.

In addition to Bailey's selection as chairperson, Governor Ted Kulongoski recently appointed four new members to serve on the SBAC. Citing the importance of small business to Oregon, the Governor said "SBAC members bring a critical perspective to the table. They are my eyes and ears out in the small business community."

The four new members are: Richard R. Batzer, President and owner of Batzer Inc., a construction services firm in Medford; Kathleen S. Jaworski, owner of Write to Know in Eugene and the former director of the Rural Development Initiatives (RDI) for the last decade; Dwayne E. Johnson of Synconix LLC, a Portland management consulting firm; and Travis L. Stovall of The Stovall Group, a Gresham business consulting firm.

"We are excited with the addition of new energy and perspectives at the council," said OECDD Director Tim McCabe. "We look forward to working closely with the SBAC to assist Oregon small businesses during this difficult time as well as during the upcoming economic recovery."

The Oregon Small Business Advisory Council is made up of eleven members who are appointed by the Governor and each serve three-year terms. The council works in conjunction with the Oregon Economic & Community Development Department (OECDD) to develop recommendations on how best to promote the growth and economic vitality of Oregon's small business sector.

The Small Business Advisory Council meets monthly and all meetings are open to the public. For more information about the OSBAC please contact OECDD's Small Business Services Officer at .

Oregon Safe Drinking Water Program awards 18 Oregon communities $27.8 million in stimulus funds for drinking water projects

May 20, 2009

Governor Ted Kulongoski today announced that the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department (OECDD) awarded federal stimulus funds to 18 Oregon community water systems totaling $27.8 million to help construct and improve to drinking water systems across the state.

"These funds will help communities across the state provide clean and safe drinking water while also creating more than 500 construction jobs for Oregonians," said Governor Ted Kulongoski. "By leveraging these federal dollars, we will deliver projects from Warrenton to Elgin and Fern Valley to Portland that will help improve the public health of thousands of Oregonians."

The federal stimulus dollars are part of $2 billion awarded nationwide by Environmental Protection Agency to fund drinking water infrastructure projects under the Recovery Act. The Oregon Department of Human Services sets the standards for the drinking water system improvements and determines eligible projects while OECDD works with applicants across the state to develop financing packages and manage the Safe Drinking Water Revolving Loan Fund (SDWRLF).

"By leveraging these federal stimulus dollars with existing state safe drinking water funds we have enabled 18 Oregon communities to fully fund pending construction projects totaling more than $45 million," said Tim McCabe, director of OECDD. "This is the best possible use of stimulus dollars here in Oregon: a near-term boost with the creation of more than 500 jobs and the long-term benefit of safe, clean drinking water."

The department combined the $27.8 million if federal funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act with $13.9 million in existing state SDWRL funds and local funds to help finance 18 projects with a total value of $45.2 million. Overall, more than 50 percent of the Safe Drinking Water funds awarded will go to local community water systems in the form of grants or forgivable loans. The remaining amounts were loaned to the communities for 20 years at a 3% interest rate.

"Aging and inadequate infrastructure causes many communities to struggle to reliably provide safe drinking water," said Dr. Mel Kohn, acting state public health director in the Oregon Department of Human Services. "These investments will not only support good jobs but also upgrade drinking water systems that are fundamental to the health of Oregonians."

For the last month, OECDD staff reviewed 112 application submitted from across the state. At least 20 percent of the funds provided have to be used for green infrastructure, water and energy efficiency improvements and other environmentally innovative projects.

Communities are expected to execute contracts by July 30 and federal requirements call for projects to be under construction no later than next March.

The Safe Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund program provides low-interest loans and grants for drinking water systems to finance infrastructure improvements. The program also emphasizes providing funds to small and disadvantaged communities and to programs that encourage pollution prevention as a tool for ensuring safe drinking water.

Since the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program began in 1997, EPA has awarded more than $8 billion in grants, which states have turned into $15 billion of financial assistance to fund safe drinking water projects.

State to Highlight Export Growth Opportunities for Oregon Companies at Showcases Across the State

May 13, 2009

The Oregon Economic and Community Development Department (OECDD) will host four International Road Show workshops next week for Oregon businesses seeking assistance and information on how to expand their export sales.

State officials, along with local partners, will host the lunch hour presentations as part of World Trade Week in Portland—May 18, 19 and 22, in Eugene on May 20 and in Bend on May 21.

The events are designed to help small- and medium-sized business owners expand their knowledge about potential export markets in such places as Mexico, Canada, Japan and the Middle East. Officials from those international partners will be hand to answer questions and provide information on how Oregon businesses can expand and diversify their export markets.

"Export markets are a critical component to growing existing Oregon businesses," said OECDD Director Tim McCabe. "The state has the technical expertise and the international relationships to help Oregon businesses find export opportunities for their products."

On May 18 at the Nines Hotel in downtown Portland, the Portland Development Commission will co-host OECDD Japan Representative Office Director Jun Mokudai and U.S.-Saudi Arabian Business Council President Edward Burton who will make a presentation about doing business with their respective nations. On May 19 in Portland, ProMexico Investment and Trade Commissioner Ricardo Vargas and Canadian Trade Commissioner Doug McCracken will make similar presentations on export opportunities to their nations.

In addition, the Mayor's International Business Awards dinner will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on May 18 in the Portland City Hall rotunda.

On May 20, the Eugene Chamber of Commerce will co-host OECDD's Mokudai and Burton will again present. On May 21 in Bend, Economic Development for Central Oregon will co-host Mokudai and Burton.

Finally, on May 22 in Portland, the Japan-American Society of Oregon will co-host an Oregon agricultural export panel featuring private-sector and government experts.

In addition, at each of the events one-on-one meetings are available for with the trade officials and OECDD International Trade Officers. Companies must request (see below) a meeting with a specific country representative.

For additional information go to: http://www.oregon4biz.com/tradeweek.htm or request a one-on-one meeting by contacting

Portland May 18-19: Gina Wiedrick at , or
Susan Moon at ,

Eugene May 20: Dave Hauser at , or
Susan Moon at ,

Bend May 21: Dayna Dudkowski at , or
Susan Moon at ,

Oregon Arts Commission to Receive and Distribute Federal Stimulus Funds for the Arts

April 13, 2009

The National Endowment for the Arts has announced $19.8 million in one-time grants under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act) to state arts agencies and regional arts organizations to support the arts sector of the economy. The Oregon Arts Commission will receive $307,600, which it will regrant to Oregon arts organizations to preserve jobs in the arts that are threatened or have been recently eliminated due to the economic downturn.

"Jobs in the arts are a vital part of Oregon's creative economy," said Governor Ted Kulongoski. "Nonprofit arts organizations employ artists, directors, managers, technicians, designers and workers in a variety of trades. They've helped brand Oregon as a state where creativity and innovation are important to all sectors of the economy."

"We're pleased the arts are recognized in the Recovery Act," commented Christine D'Arcy, Arts Commission executive director. "These one-time grants will help preserve up to 25 jobs, helping arts nonprofits weather the current economic storm. Those jobs will support arts organizations as they continue to offer high quality programs to Oregonians and bring visitors to the state. The economic stimulus plan acknowledges the role that the arts play in state and national recovery, employing artists and arts administrators in this difficult time."

"This is a good example of "The Oregon Way" for recovery," D'Arcy added, citing the state's coordinated approach for stimulus activity focused on pioneering, green and creative investments.

The Arts Commission will invest Recovery funds in projects that assist arts organizations in retaining critical staff. Oregon Arts Stimulus Grant guidelines will be posted online at www.oregonartscommission.org by April 17, 2009. Requests for funding will be accepted through an online application process until May 15, 2009.

About the National Endowment for the Arts
The NEA is a public agency dedicated to supporting excellence in the arts—both new and established—bringing the arts to all Americans, and providing leadership in arts education. Established by Congress in 1965 as an independent agency of the federal government, the Arts Endowment is the largest annual national funder of the arts, bringing great art to all 50 states, including rural areas, inner cities and military bases. For more information, please visit www.arts.gov. Since the NEA was established, it has worked in partnership with the 56 state and jurisdictional arts agencies and six multi-state regional arts organizations to meet the Arts Endowment's goal of bringing the arts to all Americans. This dynamic relationship has resulted in an exemplary record of growth for the arts, stimulating an extraordinary economic impact in communities throughout the country. As required by the NEA's legislation, forty percent of all grantmaking funds are designated for these partner agencies.

About the Oregon Arts Commission
The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the Governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts. The Arts Commission became part of the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department in 1993 in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities. In 2003, the Oregon legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the commission's expertise in grantmaking, arts and cultural information and community cultural development.

Related links
National Endowment for the Arts, www.arts.gov
Oregon Arts Commission, www.oregonartscommission.org
The Oregon Way recovery.oregon.gov

Oregon Community Development Block Grants Awarded to Grants Pass, Newport and Lane County

March 6, 2009

The Oregon Economic and Community Development Department (OECDD) recently awarded more than $1.9 million dollars in federal Community Development Block Grant funds (CDBG) to the cities of Newport and Grants Pass as well as to Lane County.

"We are very pleased to partner with communities across the state and help them successfully improve their infrastructure and create jobs," said Tim McCabe, the director of the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department. "OECDD also plans to work closely with local communities across Oregon in the future to help distribute the recently approved federal stimulus dollars through the community development program."

The recently funded projects include $800,000 for senior center improvements in Newport; $1 million for drinking water system improvements in Lane County and $100,000 to help the city of Grants Pass form a microenterprise assistance network.

The federally funded CDBG grants help support Oregon communities in completing important community infrastructure projects aimed at improving community livability for citizens of low to moderate incomes.

The city of Newport will combine the $800,000 CDBG grant with $114,500 of local funds to remodel their existing senior center facility including construction of a full entry and restrooms as well as creating an activity room for seniors. The new facility will provide five meal services per week and benefit 182 seniors the first year after construction.

"It is going to mean some really nice additions to our senior center and the folks who use that facility are really going to enjoy them," said Newport Mayor Bill Bain. "We certainly appreciate all the assistance we received in getting this grant for our community."

Lane County will combine the $1,000,000 CDBG grant with $550,000 from the Row River Water District to design and construct needed improvements to the newly formed district's aging water system. The water treatment system is more than 30 years old and has been cited several times for violations of the Safe Drinking Water Act.

In Grants Pass, the city will match the $100,000 CDBG grant with $31,000 of local funds to form a regional microenterprise assistance program through a partnership involving the municipalities of Grants Pass, Cave Junction and Josephine County. The program will provide classroom training for microenterprises to develop work plans, identify specific business training needs, assess their business enterprise ideas for feasibility and develop individualized business plans. The city anticipates assisting 40 microenterprises with this project.

"What it means for Grants Pass is we are now able to help increase the entrepreneurial network to help grow Josephine County out of its current (economic) situation," said Steve Dahl, economic development coordinator with the city of Grants Pass. "We are very excited to be able to help low-income residents start their own businesses."

Since the early 1980's, the OECDD has administered the state's CDBG program with funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The program serves non-metropolitan cities and counties of Oregon. The OECDD reviews applications for funding under the Community Development Block Grant program on a quarterly basis or until all funds available for the year have been obligated.

For further information about the Oregon Community Development Block Grant program, please contact OECDD or visit www.orinfrastructure.org

Oregon Business Development Day at the Capitol highlights state efforts to create and save jobs for Oregonians

February 18, 2009

SALEM—The state's top economic development officials today outlined their plans for helping Oregon businesses create and retain jobs while positioning the state to succeed in the post-recession, 21st century economy.

Oregon Economic and Community Development Department (OECDD) Director Tim McCabe and Oregon Economic and Community Development Commission Chair Wally Van Valkenburg visited key state legislators during Oregon Business Development Day at the Capitol.

"We want our legislators to know that our emphasis is on creating and saving jobs at existing Oregon businesses as well as our efforts to attract more investment into the state," said OECDD Director McCabe. "Our team is working closely with our economic development partners across the state to help local communities and their residents."

In addition, McCabe and Van Valkenburg echoed the Governor's vision to cement Oregon's position as a recognized leader in innovation and the renewable energy economy of the 21st century.

"Whether it is testing electric cars, building solar panels or encouraging wind energy developments, Oregon has already surged to the front of the pack when it comes to the nation's next wave of economic growth," said Van Valkenburg. "When the current recession recedes—and it will—we want to make sure Oregon is well positioned to grow jobs and wealth from coastal communities to the plains of eastern Oregon."

The state's business development team met with legislative leadership and more than two dozen legislators during the all-day event. The group described the many local successes fueled, in part, by the assistance of the OECDD statewide team of business development officers.

"We have helped create and retain thousands of jobs across the state of Oregon," said McCabe. "But now we must ensure existing Oregon businesses survive this economic storm and the state is well positioned to hit the ground running when it ends. To that end, our efforts will focus on making sure existing Oregon businesses sustain their competitive advantages."

Oregon business development leaders meet with Senate President Courtney, House Speaker Hunt, Majority Leaders Devlin and Nolan and Minority Leader Hanna

February 18, 2009

SALEM—The state's top economic development officials today outlined their plans to help existing Oregon businesses create and retain jobs while positioning the state to succeed in the post-recession, 21st century economy.

Oregon Economic and Community Development Department (OECDD) Director Tim McCabe, Oregon Economic and Community Development Commission Chair Wally Van Valkenburg and members of the OECD Commission and the Oregon Innovation Council visited legislative leadership including Senate President Peter Courtney, House Speaker Dave Hunt, Senate Majority Leader Senator Richard Devlin, House Majority Leader Rep. Mary Nolan and House Minority Leader Bruce Hanna.

"We want our legislative leaders to know about our emphasis on helping existing Oregon businesses create and retain jobs as well as our efforts to attract more investment into the state," said OECDD Director McCabe.

In addition, McCabe and Van Valkenburg echoed Governor Kulongoski's emphasis on producing a highly educated workforce and utilizing innovation to maintain Oregon's position as a recognized leader in the 21st century economy.

"Whether it is testing electric cars, building solar panels and windmills or encouraging nanotechnology development, Oregon has already surged to the front of the pack when it comes to the nation's next wave of economic growth," said Van Valkenburg.

The economic development officials also discussed OECDD's already successful efforts to create thousands of jobs across the state of Oregon at companies such as Climax Portable Tools, Agri-Plas, SolarWorld and FedEx.

State partners with Port of Coos Bay to purchase rail line

February 5, 2009

The Oregon Economic and Community Development (OECD) Commission Thursday approved $12.6 million in bridge loans that will enable the Port of Coos Bay to purchase the rail line that was shut down by Central Oregon & Pacific Railroad (CORP).

As a result of the September 2007 short-line closure—traveling 120 miles between Eugene and Coos Bay—approximately 750 direct jobs at rail-served manufacturing sites in the South Coast region are at risk. The potential loss of jobs in the manufacturing sector also could have triggered in the loss of a larger number of indirect and induced jobs in the region, local officials estimated.

"This rail line is critical to the future economic stability for the Southern Oregon Coast," said Tim McCabe, Director of the OECDD. "This bridge loan is important because of the timeline imposed on the purchase of the line and is one way the state can help preserve jobs and economic opportunities for Southern Oregon."

Prior to the Central Oregon & Pacific (CORP) Railroad's closure of the Coos Bay rail line in September 2007, freight rail service was available to many regional firms including Roseburg Forest Products, Georgia-Pacific Inc., Southport Forest Products, Coos Head Forest Products, American Bridge Manufacturing, Westwood Lumber, AmeriGas and Ferrellgas. The rail service closure has significantly increased shipping costs for all commodities and has resulted in layoffs at various mills. Additionally, several firms have stated that lack of rail service will eventually lead to reallocation of long-term plant investments and possible relocation of manufacturing operations to other rail-served locations.

"Railroads are a vital part of Oregon's transportation system and its support to the state's economy," said Kelly Taylor, Administrator of the Oregon Department of Transportation Rail Division. "For 93 years, this rail line has been instrumental to the economic development of the southern Oregon coast and beyond. Today's action ensures that it will continue to support Oregon's prosperity into the future."

On Thursday, The OECD Commission unanimously approved two Special Public Works Fund loans totaling approximately $12.6 million to allow the Port to have sufficient funds to purchase the line later this month. One loan, for $7.2 million, will be paid off within 24 months following the Port's receipt of federal transportation funds. The second loan—$5.4 million—has a 25-year repayment schedule. In addition, to these loans, ODOT provided $4 million in ConnectOregon financing for the project.

"Oregon could not afford to lose the Coos Bay rail line and access to the harbor at Coos Bay," said Sen. Joanne Verger (D-Coos Bay). "All parties—from state and federal government to communities, businesses and employees who depend upon the rail line—have worked tirelessly to preserve hundreds of jobs and ensure the long-term economic viability of the region."

"Today is a great day for Oregon and the South Coast region," said State Rep. Arnie Roblan (D-Coos Bay). "This has been a difficult and uncertain period for the entire region, and we are excited to move forward with a plan to preserve this critical component of our local manufacturing economy."

Central Oregon & Pacific Railroad (CORP), the current owner of the line, filed a rail service embargo notice with the Association of American Railroads for the majority of the Coos Bay rail line from west of Eugene to Coquille and discontinued railroad service in late September 2007. CORP stated that three tunnels on the line were unsafe and did not comply with Federal Railroad Administration standards. They sought funding assistance plus annual subsidies from ODOT's Rail Division to restore service on the line.

On November 10, 2008, the federal Surface Transportation Board awarded the Port the opportunity to purchase the line for $16,605,987 with the purchase to be completed by February 18, 2009.

New state Business Development Officer aims to create and retain local jobs

January 30, 2009

Portland, Oregon—Chad Freeman joined the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department (OECDD) team as the new Business Development Officer representing Clackamas and Washington counties. As the Business Development Officer for these counties Chad will be responsible for recruiting, retention and development efforts within these communities and will be a representative for the state on local economic development efforts.

"I am really excited to work closely with our partners in Clackamas and Washington counties to build on our record of success in the region," said Freeman. "These are tough economic times, and while the state will focus on helping existing businesses create new jobs while holding on to the ones they already have, we also have to prepare to compete in the 21st century economy after this recession ends."

Freeman relocated to Portland from John Day, Oregon, where he had worked for the past four years as the Executive Director of the Training and Employment Consortium (TEC). During this time, Chad was responsible for delivering workforce and economic development programs over a broad six-county area in Eastern Oregon. During his tenure he initiated a strategic planning process for the Consortium as well as leading the successful implementation of this strategic plan.

Prior to his work at TEC, Freeman served as the Grant County Economic Development Coordinator in John Day between 2003 and 2005 where he was responsible for recruitment, development and marketing while working with rural area businesses. In addition, Freeman has more than five years of experience working in commercial real estate with a focus on the retail sector and development.

Freeman earned both a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and Real Estate and a Masters of Business Administration from Colorado State University.

For additional information please visit our website: http://www.oregon4biz.com or contact your local Business Development Officer, Chad Freeman at .