Business Oregon Creates $250,000 Loan Program

Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Jack Rushall, GoLocalPDX Contributor

Oregon’s state economic development agency, Business Oregon, is creating a $250,000 loan program. The program is designed to help increase revenue and jobs within Oregon, a state known for its national manufacturing contributions.

"We're a state that still makes things and ships them around the world." said Sean Robbins, Business Oregon's director. "From semiconductors to wood products to ocean going ships, Oregon's middle class is fueled by manufacturing."

Currently, 75 percent of Oregon’s 5,200 manufacturers possess 20 or fewer employees. Oregon is answering this concern by employing the Small Manufacturing Business Expansion Program, which aims to fill the gap for 6 to 12 companies.

"Manufacturing is a cornerstone of Oregon's economy and delivers family wage jobs around the state," said Governor Kate Brown. "We must make sure our small manufacturers have the tools to compete globally so they continue to thrive and grow. This program will provide these tools to some who traditionally wouldn't have access."

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