Question 1

What kind of businesses can access the Hub?

Accepted Answer

The Hub is open to all emerging and small businesses. However, it has a few priorities.
The Hub focuses on innovation-based, traded-sector businesses. “Traded-sector” means your products or services are/or can be sold across state lines. “Innovation-based” means that your business is based on or benefits from emerging technologies (anything inventive and new: for example, a new sustainable material that’s better for the environment, an innovative process that reduces costs, or AI-enabled design).
High priority is also given to on accessibility and prioritizes businesses owned by marginalized communities (e.g. BIPOC, women, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and other historically underserved groups).

Question 2

What kind of services does the Hub provide?

Accepted Answer

The Hub is a connector. It provides one-to-one meetings to learn about your business and then connects you with a network of local and regional partners that support mentorship, access to funding opportunities, technical assistance, business development support, and industry-specific resources.

In some cases, the Hub can also provide mentors or skills and educational programs.

Question 3

Do I need to be based in Portland to access this service?

Accepted Answer

No. This program services business owners in Multnomah, Clackamas, and Washington counties.

Question 4

Is there an expiration date for this program?

Accepted Answer

This program is funded by Business Oregon and is active through June 30, 2025. We hope to secure additional grant funding to keep The Hub open beyond that date.

Question 5

Is there an income restriction?

Accepted Answer

No, there are no income eligibility requirements.

Question 6

Is there a cost for this service?

Accepted Answer

No, the resource navigation services provided by this program are free of charge. However, different resources that the Hub refers you to may have eligibility requirements or service costs.