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.