Central Oregon’s Business Support Resources

Central Oregon’s Business Support Resources

Central Oregon is a great place to start a business where the entrepreneurial spirit is encouraged through a strong business support network. The Deschutes Public Library is a part of that network along with the following organizations that support business development throughout the tri-county region.

• SCORE Central Oregon is part of the national network of volunteers who provide entrepreneurs free and confidential business counseling services throughout the area.
• Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO), Redmond Economic Development Inc. (REDI), and Sunriver/La Pine Economic Development (SLED) are affiliated nonprofit organizations that encourage economic development throughout the region. EDCO focuses specifically on the traded-sector.
• Chambers of Commerce in Bend, La Pine, Redmond, Sisters, and Sunriver support businesses and their communities throughout the county. They provide numerous networking and promotional opportunities for members.
• The Center for Business, Industry, and Professional Development at COCC offers comprehensive professional development, customizable and industry-specific workforce trainings, and expert business advice and education to help existing and future business owners grow and succeed. The Small Business Development Center is one of their programs and focuses on enhancing Central Oregon’s economic interests.
• There are also a number of industry specific organizations including Bend Startup Central, focused on the tech industry, the Oregon Outdoor Alliance for those in the outdoor industry, and Cultivate Bend, focused on the consumer packaged goods industry with an emphasis on food and beverage.
• BusinessXpress is State of Oregon’s “one stop business shop” online portal with resources starting, expanding, and operating a business in Oregon.
• Business Oregon is the State of Oregon’s economic development agency. They administer more than 80 grant, loan, tax incentive, and other programs to further the development of businesses, communities, and economies in Oregon.