Discover how EDCO provides essential resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help your startup thrive in Central Oregon.
Empowering Central Oregon’s Entrepreneurial Community
Central Oregon has earned a reputation as one of the country’s top regions for entrepreneurship. With a dynamic ecosystem that boasts innovative ideas, ample capital, talented individuals, and a robust support network, startups in this area are well-positioned to scale and succeed. According to Entrepreneur Magazine, “The diversity of people bringing businesses here is astounding. A community of big brains, here because they want to be.”
Key Resources Offered by EDCO
Business Financing
Navigating the landscape of business financing can be daunting for new entrepreneurs. EDCO’s team of experienced professionals provides free guidance to help startups identify and secure the right economic development incentives and financing options available in Central Oregon. Whether you’re looking to move, start, or grow your business, EDCO ensures you have access to the programs that best fit your needs.
Coworking Spaces
Central Oregon is home to a variety of coworking spaces designed to cater to the diverse needs of entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers. These spaces offer flexible membership options, high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and vibrant communities that foster collaboration and creativity. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or part of a growing team, coworking spaces in Central Oregon provide the perfect environment to ideate, launch, and scale your startup.
Industry-Specific Support
The region’s thriving industries benefit from EDCO’s industry-specific support groups, which foster close-knit and collaborative relationships. Organizations such as Bend Outdoor Worx (BOW), Cultivate Bend, Oregon Outdoor Alliance, and Central Oregon Innovation Network (COIN) offer invaluable opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and grow within their specific fields. This targeted support ensures that startups receive the tailored assistance they need to thrive.
Coaching & Mentoring
EDCO serves as a hub that connects entrepreneurs with trusted advisors, industry experts, angel investors, venture funding, and other essential resources. Their Venture Catalyst program works directly with early-stage entrepreneurs, empowering businesses to make informed decisions, overcome obstacles, and execute critical steps as they scale. This personalized coaching and mentoring ensure that startups have the guidance they need to navigate the challenges of growth.
Events and Networking Opportunities
Bend Venture Conference (BVC)
Each fall, the Bend Venture Conference brings together hundreds of entrepreneurs and investors from around the country for a two-day celebration of entrepreneurship. Now in its 21st year, BVC is the longest-standing and largest angel investment conference in the Pacific Northwest, serving as a catalyst for startup investment in Central Oregon. Building on the success of the High Desert Innovation Week, attendees can participate in various entrepreneurial events leading up to BVC, enhancing their networking and investment opportunities.
Central Oregon PubTalk
Central Oregon PubTalk is a monthly networking event hosted by EDCO, where entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders gather to share ideas, discuss industry trends, and connect over local brews. Featuring presentations from local startups, success stories from seasoned entrepreneurs, and insights from industry experts, PubTalk fosters a collaborative environment that helps build strong relationships within the business community.
OSU-Cascades Innovation District
The OSU-Cascades Innovation District represents the next step in the region’s expansion, bringing together people and ideas to advance research, technology commercialization, incubation, and economic development. Once fully developed, the 24-acre district will include 500,000 square feet of space dedicated to tech, light-industrial, office, commercial, experiential retail, and multipurpose event and performing arts. Additionally, workforce housing will support the growing needs of the entrepreneurial community.
Why Choose EDCO for Central Oregon Startup Resources
EDCO stands out as a comprehensive support system for entrepreneurs in Central Oregon. By offering a wide range of resources, from business financing and coworking spaces to industry-specific support and personalized coaching, EDCO ensures that startups have everything they need to succeed. Their commitment to fostering a vibrant and collaborative entrepreneurial ecosystem makes EDCO an invaluable partner for any startup aiming to thrive in Central Oregon.
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