Google and Oregon’s Leading Innovation Partners Launch Oregon AI Accelerator to Fuel the Next Wave of AI Entrepreneurship
- Metro Region Innovation Hub
- Nov 16
- 3 min read
A coalition of Oregon’s top innovation and academic institutions, today announced the launch of the Oregon AI Accelerator, a first-of-its-kind statewide initiative designed to support early-stage founders building transformative, AI-first companies.
Backed by seed funding from Google, and supported by the Metro Regional Innovation Hub, Portland State University, Oregon Health & Science University, Oregon State University, the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network, the Technology Association of Oregon, and TiE Oregon, the Accelerator will launch its inaugural pilot in February 2026.
The program will bring together 20 early-stage AI startups for a three-month hybrid accelerator experience combining in-person sessions in Portland with virtual programming. Participants will receive mentorship, validation support, and access to Oregon’s thriving innovation ecosystem – without giving up equity – and will compete for up to $50,000 in equity-free grant prizes.
"By investing in entrepreneurs and connecting them to resources statewide, we're helping ensure Oregon remains a place where innovation drives broad economic opportunity." - Katy Bowman, Google
“This program is much bigger than accelerating startups—it’s about helping Oregon small businesses compete and grow in the age of AI,” said Katy Bowman, manager of Google’s community development and engagement program. “By investing in entrepreneurs and connecting them to resources statewide, we’re helping ensure Oregon remains a place where innovation drives broad economic opportunity.”
The Oregon AI Accelerator builds on the success of the Oregon AI Bootcamp, which trained more than 40 founders in June and demonstrated strong regional demand for deeper, hands-on support. The new Accelerator expands on that model with a comprehensive program designed to help founders refine their business models, strengthen technical capabilities, and prepare for investment.
“This initiative represents the collaborative spirit that defines Oregon’s innovation community,” said Joseph Janda, Assistant Vice President for Innovation at PSU. “By bringing together academia, industry, and investors, we’re creating a powerful platform for founders to build scalable companies that reflect Oregon’s values of innovation, equity, and impact.”
The program will be coordinated by the Metro Region Innovation Hub, which is part of Business Oregon's statewide network of regional Innovation Hubs dedicated to maximizing support for innovation-based entrepreneurs.
“The Oregon AI Accelerator is a model for how public, private, and academic partners can come together to make Oregon a true leader in responsible, human-centered AI innovation,” added Jack Phan, the incoming Director of the Oregon AI Accelerator Program.
Applications for the Oregon AI Accelerator open November 17, 2025, and close December 15, 2025. The pilot cohort will run from February 2 through May 15, 2026. While startups from anywhere may apply, at least 50% of the cohort will be Oregon-based to ensure strong local impact and growth.
“This accelerator would not be possible without the generous support of Google and the dedication of our partner organizations,” said Cara Turano, Executive Director of Oregon Entrepreneurs Network. “Together, we’re building the foundation for Oregon to emerge as a global hub for AI innovation, where founders can thrive and meaningful technologies can take root.”
Support for Oregon’s AI Accelerator continues Google’s commitment in Oregon. With data centers in The Dalles and an office in downtown Portland, Google has invested more than $2 billion in Oregon since 2006. Through its tools and products, the company has also helped generate $8.6 billion in economic activity for Oregon businesses and nonprofits.
Learn more about the program here or attend an upcoming information session.