BREAKOUT SESSION A

Oregon’s Innovation Hubs: Supporting Small Businesses into Scalable Startups

Santiam 4/5

This session brings together three Regional Innovation Hub leaders from across Oregon for a dynamic conversation on how communities can strengthen local innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems. Panelists will explore what it takes to move emerging businesses along the commercialization pathway—from early-stage ideas to sustainable, traded-sector growth—while highlighting the unique opportunities and challenges facing smaller and rural communities.

Through the lens of Oregon’s Regional Innovation Hub program, the discussion will offer practical insights into connecting entrepreneurs with the resources, partnerships, technical assistance, and networks they need to scale, compete, and contribute to long-term regional economic vitality.