Hello friends,

It has been said that if you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together. We’re excited to share the momentum we are seeing across Collaborative EDO’s three economic development initiatives by way of this June newsletter.

Welcome - In recent weeks economic development partners have hosted an increasing number of visiting employers who are considering expanding to Lane County. Our region is showing well and Collaborative EDO is thankful for the teamwork from Business Oregon, Lane County, the University of Oregon, LCC, Campbell Commercial Real Estate, Cushman & Wakefield and our many local partners in these hands-on business recruitment efforts. Later this month we will be traveling to Maryland for business recruiting, bringing companies back to visit September 7th at the World Class Industries Tailgate.

Innovate - Local early stage startups companies stand to get a boost from OEN’s new ~$100,000 Angel Oregon Technology (AOTech) investment fund, details below. Collaborative EDO will be hosting OEN’s Executive Director Cara Turano on July 23, where entrepreneurs can get the inside scoop on writing a successful application to OEN’s prestigious Entrepreneurship Awards.

Thrive - The new Bridge Lane program kicks off July 17th in Oakridge, Oregon. Bridge Lane meets people where they are and helps make connections to essential resources, removes barriers to employment, and increases economic mobility in our community. The program is backed by Lane Workforce Partnership and boosts the signal of public and private sector partners who are joining in this new effort.

Stay tuned for some exciting announcements in the coming weeks, made possible because of the collaborative approach to economic development in our region.

In partnership,

Matt

The 2024 Oregon Talent Summit, hosted by the State of Oregon’s Workforce and Talent Development Board (WTDB) and the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC), united organizations dedicated to shaping the future of entrepreneurship and workforce in Oregon. Key participants included Collaborative EDO, Lane Workforce Partnership, University of Oregon, WorkSource, and Opportunity Oregon.

Lane County partners engaged in a variety of sessions, addressing critical themes such as data-driven policymaking, industry engagement, funding options for startups, the importance of employability skills, and innovative grant strategies.

Collaborative EDO’s active participation in the Oregon Talent Summit underscores our commitment to maintaining momentum in new knowledge, industry trends and connections. This involvement helps bolster Oregon’s economic competitiveness and create equitable career pathways for all.

Bridge Lane is a combined career and resource fair, sprinkled with some community fun.

Our mission is to make workforce services more accessible to everyone in our community. The Bridge Lane program meets people where they are and connects community members to essential resources, increasing economic mobility. Embracing inclusivity, collaboration, and fun, Bridge Lane removes barriers and creates connection.

Over the next two years, Bridge Lane will create opportunities for all, bringing resources to both rural and urban Lane County.

• Resource providers extend their reach.
• Employers access skilled professionals.
• Education & training providers connect with talent.
• Volunteers find rewarding experiences.

We welcome partners! Together, we will cultivate a vibrant community where everyone prospers.