The Plan Maps Out Priorities, Strategies, and Actions for the State’s Economic Development Agency
The new strategic plan identifies most pressing economic development challenges facing the state of Oregon, from both quantitative analysis and qualitative perspectives of stakeholders. The resulting priorities and strategies specifically address the shifting economic landscape, changing demographics, and unique strengths of Oregon’s industries, businesses, and entrepreneurs.
“While Oregon’s economy has one of the best GDP growth in the nation, low unemployment levels, and record export growth, I’m focused on ensuring economic growth reaches all corners of the state, particularly in our rural communities,” Governor Brown said. “That’s why Business Oregon’s new direction lays out clear priorities focused on innovation, growing our small businesses, stabilizing our rural economies, and promoting shared prosperity throughout Oregon.”
“This plan is targeted and outcome-focused,” said Business Oregon director Chris Harder. “Our strategic plan will inform our initiatives, work plans, program implementation, and budget decisions. And we know outcomes of our work will not be achieved alone, our partnerships throughout the state will determine our shared success.”
Business Oregon communicated with hundreds of stakeholders, including many OEDA members. Participants included state legislators and elected officials, local governments, tribal leaders, heads of regional business development organizations, business CEOs, representatives of academic institutions, entrepreneurs, and Business Oregon staff.
Priorities identified in the plan are:
- Innovate Oregon’s Economy
- Grow Small and Middle-market Companies
- Cultivate Rural Economic Stability
- Advance Economic Opportunity for Underrepresented People
- Ensure an Inclusive, Transparent, and Fiscally Healthy Agency
The full plan and supporting analysis is available on Business Oregon’s website.