The Governor's Roadshow Offers Support for Small Businesses in Oregon

Recently two members of our team attended the Governor's Roadshow. There were representatives from ODOT, Department of Corrections, Government Contractor's Assistance Program (GCAP), Kiva and more.

Small businesses provide the vast majority of jobs in Oregon. This workshop helps small business owners transition to an inside track by providing them the information and support they need to be successful. For small businesses that are already successful, it helps them discover new avenues for growth.

We are methodical in our processes. First we met with GCAP. We have taken the first step in implementing the counselor's recommendations.

Strengthening Clusters Virtually

The last post referred to how clusters strengthen neighborhoods. This article builds on that concept, however from a technology perspective.

The State of Oregon has partnered with a crowd funding resource to help small businesses obtain funding. This is not free money. Start ups are eligible. Companies must obtain an endorsement. The entity endorsing the company vouches for it. The loan is offered at zero percent interest, but must be repaid in a specific time frame. Funding comes from many sources. An investor can contribute a very small amount if desired. This is a good resource for companies or nonprofits that need capital, but it requires the company to have a solid business plan to ensure the loan will be repaid.

There is also an entity in Oregon that is fee based. This allows companies and nonprofits to come together and help each other. The average loan is $6700.00. Like any other service there is a structure and a process.

Now lets apply these two discoveries to the concept of clusters. What if churches, groups of like-minded nonprofits or businesses shared resources. Imagine a virtual market place which could strengthen your cluster can use to obtain goods and services, small amounts of financing for capital needs or shared consulting services.  Eighty percent of wage earners in Oregon are employed by small businesses. A strong local infrastructure based on clusters is one method.

Clusters Offer Strength

An article appeared in "The Contact", a church newsletter that serves fifty churches in Oregon and Southwest Washington. This article was on the concept of clusters. In this instance it refers to clusters of churches based on affiliation and geography. The goal is to strengthen communities. This is an excellent step forward. Although it was not expressly addressed, it also sets up a structure to share resources, avoid duplication of services, and opportunities to work together to meet community needs. Working as part of a cluster strengthens the church and local neighborhoods.

The same concept can be applied to small businesses and organizations. The City of Portland accomplishes this through seven Neighborhood Coalitions. These Coalitions have historically received grant funds from the City. Organizations within the boundaries of each coalition could compete for a grant to help strengthen neighborhoods. This year the City is not offering grants due to budget constraints, however current projects will continue. Grants provide encouragement, but the real strength is in the structure. These neighborhood coalitions have had opportunities to work together to produce results. Now they are equipped to succeed with or without the aid of grants.

Turning Moments To Momentum

"What are you working on"? Then comes the explanation. Our creative coach is the gifted writer. She is just finishing her time travel novel. My writing is more on the business side of things-more in the realm of grants, consulting or framing in a business continuity plan.
 
"You write grants? I just started a nonprofit. Do you know a good nonprofit accountant?

In five minutes I learned this nonprofit organizer did some things right. First, she applied for space in an environment with natural project and support partners. Second, she has gone to great lengths to put together an excellent nonprofit board. Third, the Board is working on a five year strategic plan. Last, they are networking, listening and acting on helpful information that fits with their mission and vision.

In a few short moments we discussed the importance of a visual plan, strategies to find potential grant funding, and three methods of assigning a dollar value to communicate the value of volunteer time.  Quickly five websites were offered to demonstrate important aspects of communication. They do an excellent job of communicating plans visually, and demonstrate the benefits of transparent finances and accountability. I was able to point her to an organization that conveys the dollar value of volunteer time in very simple terms. My advice was "count everything". Statistics can be a very effective way to help tell your story.