Eugene, Oregon, has cultivated a dynamic environment for entrepreneurs and small business owners. A variety of local organizations and programs offer support, resources, and funding to help businesses thrive. Here’s an overview of key resources available to Eugene’s entrepreneurial community.
Regional Accelerator & Innovation Network (RAIN) Eugene
RAIN Eugene provides a 16-week accelerator program designed to propel startups forward. Participants gain access to mentorship, hands-on sessions with industry experts, and dedicated workspace. The program aims to connect entrepreneurs with a supportive community, fostering innovation and growth. Learn more about RAIN Eugene.
Lane Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
The Lane SBDC offers no-cost business advising sessions, classes, and events tailored for both existing business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Their services are also available in Spanish, ensuring accessibility for a diverse clientele. Explore Lane SBDC’s offerings.
Onward Eugene
Onward Eugene focuses on fostering inclusive economic prosperity through various initiatives:
- Business Recovery & Expansion: Supporting local businesses to survive, scale, and thrive.
- Entrepreneurship & Innovation: Increasing the number of startups and providing world-class support for new companies.
- Regional Marketing & Business Recruitment: Amplifying the visibility of innovation in the Eugene area to attract businesses.
- Talent & Leadership Development: Collaborating with partners to develop, retain, and recruit a talented workforce.
Discover more about Onward Eugene.
City of Eugene Business Support Programs
The City of Eugene offers several programs to bolster local businesses:
- Business Loan Program: Providing various loans, including Facade Improvement, Business Growth, Downtown, Signage, Art, and River Loans, to support economic growth. Learn about EUG Loans.
- Enterprise Zone: The West Eugene Enterprise Zone offers property tax exemptions for eligible new investments, aiming to stimulate job creation. More on Enterprise Zones.
- Business Access Coordination Program: A proactive initiative to minimize construction impacts on businesses by maintaining communication and finding solutions to ensure continued operations. Details on Business Support.
Fertilab Thinkubator
Fertilab Thinkubator is a non-profit community supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Lane County. They operate two startup business incubator and coworking spaces:
- Fertilab – Eugene: Located at 44 W 7th, offering coworking and biotech lab space.
- Fertilab – Springfield: Located at 138 Main Street, providing coworking space, a conference room, and educational events.
Collaboration is a core value, with members sharing ideas and expertise to help each other succeed. Find out more about Fertilab Thinkubator.
By leveraging these resources, Eugene’s entrepreneurs can access the support and tools necessary to navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business, contributing to the city’s vibrant and diverse economic landscape.