Hello friends,

Get ready for an action-packed July newsletter filled with exciting opportunities, valuable resources, and inspiring success stories!

Welcome: Collaborative EDO made its debut at the SelectUSA Investment Summit in Washington DC, teaming up with key regional and state partners to highlight Oregon’s unique advantages to recruit new employers to the state.

Innovate: We’re joining forces with the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network (OEN) to catapult local startups into a statewide spotlight in Portland and beyond.

Thrive: Mark your calendars for July 17th! The Bridge Lane program kicks off in Oakridge, Oregon, connecting people with essential resources and boosting economic mobility, thanks to Lane Workforce Partnership.

Spark your curiosity and explore all the amazing things happening this month in our regional economy! 

In partnership,

Matt

Collaborative EDO was honored to pitch Oregon's competitive advantage alongside regional and state partners at this year's SelectUSA Investment Summit in Washington DC.

This federal program and summit, led by the U.S. Department of Commerce, serves to attract job-creating business investment into the United States. This was the first year Collaborative EDO has participated and we are thankful for the warm inclusion by Business Oregon, Port of Portland, Prosper Portland, Portland General Electric, and Greater Portland Inc.

Since 2013, this summit has brought together global businesses and US economic development professionals, facilitating more than $110 billion in new U.S investment projects, supporting over 85,000 jobs across the U.S.

Ready to elevate your startup to new heights and catch the eye of top investors? Join us at "Coffee & Connect," hosted in collaboration with the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network (OEN).

Drop by on July 23rd between 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM at Dark Pine Coffee to discover a wealth of resources available to startups across Oregon. From funding opportunities to networking events and educational workshops, you'll gain valuable information to help your company launch, grow and thrive.

Aspiring for statewide recognition through OEN’s prestigious Entrepreneurship Awards? This event is your golden ticket. Learn the secrets to crafting a standout nomination, discover what judges are really looking for, and find out how to showcase your achievements and innovations like a pro.

OEN’s Executive Director, Cara Turano, will be present to share her expertise and guide you through the process. This is a unique opportunity to hear directly from a leader in the entrepreneurial community and gain firsthand knowledge on how to leverage OEN’s resources.

Elevate your startup, learn from the best, and connect with the heart of the startup community at Coffee & Connect!

The city of Oakridge, with a population of over 3,200, faces significant challenges, including a poverty rate of 26% and a median household income nearly 30% lower than the national average.

On July 17th from 2-7pm the Oakridge community and beyond will be coming together to attend the first quarterly Bridge Lane event. The mission of Bridge Lane is to empower individuals and organizations by providing essential resources, support, and opportunities. 

This new initiative will help bring together resource providers and Community Based Organizations, educational and training resources, and employers who are currently hiring - all in one place - with community members that might not otherwise be reached. Bridge Lane has partnered with the Oakridge School District to make this a fun community event with free backpacks for kids, a bounce house, shaved ice, on-site child care, and raffle prizes that include a Kindle Fire. Hunter Communications has generously sponsored a dinner-time food truck for attendees while they check out all the resources available.

Hunter Communications, a local provider of fiber-optic internet and phone services for residential commercial customers throughout Lane County, recently attended the Em's Career Highlight Night in hopes of attracting new talent.

"When we learned about the event it seemed like a no-brainer as we have numerous positions to fill in our Eugene office," said Stepehen Parac, General Manager and Director of Sales. "We spoke with a wide variety of candidates and took an interest in one in-particular."

Michael Ruppert attended the Career Fair to learn about positions offered throughout Eugene. He was drawn to the Hunter booth due to his previous work experience with employees at the company as well as how easy it was to talk to Hunter representatives that night. “Meeting Stephen at the Career Fair solidified my desire to work at the company. When an engineering position was posted on their website, I applied immediately,” said Ruppert.

Michael began with Hunter in June and is currently an OSP Engineer, focusing his attention on the company’s Fiber-To-The Home expansion. “Michael is an excellent addition to the team and is learning the ropes very quickly,” said Joe Vandecoevering, Director of Engineering at Hunter.

As for Michael, he is excited to continue his career with Hunter. According to him, “I can tell they care about their employees and the work environment is next to none. Here's to a bright and productive future!”

To learn more about careers with Hunter Communications, visit HunterFiber.com/Careers.

This is your chance to enjoy a delightful morning brew while mingling with fellow entrepreneurs and innovators.  Get to know Cara Turano, the Executive Director of the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network. Hear about her journey, insights, and vision for the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Oregon.

Raise a glass under the summer sky!

Join Technology Association of Oregon for Party in the Pinot, a premier wine and food event at the scenic Scholls Valley Lodge. Mingle with Oregon's technology movers and shakers amidst the working farms of Hillsboro. Savor delicious food expertly paired with exquisite Pinots, along with live music and a delightful whiskey bar. It's the perfect summer evening to celebrate with clients, colleagues, or simply enjoy a taste of Oregon's bounty.

This exclusive gathering, for partners, members, and invited guests is co-hosted by Collaborative EDO, Technology Association of Oregon, and Oregon Bioscience Association, and promises a day filled with excitement, networking, and celebration.

Interested in becoming a sponsor? Find out more HERE.