Summary:
Oregon leads the US with a 9.9% increase in business establishments, adding 18,273 new businesses.
Bend, Oregon is a hot spot for startups, attracting entrepreneurs with its supportive ecosystem.
Strong entrepreneurial spirit, abundant resources, and a strong sense of community are key drivers of Bend's success.
Bend has evolved from limited early support for startups to a flourishing environment with resources like Bend Tech and the OSU-Cascades innovation hub.
Oregon: A Hotbed for Entrepreneurship
Oregon is making waves in the world of startups, claiming the top spot for the highest percentage increase in business establishments across the US. Data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals a staggering 9.9% growth in Oregon between 2022 and 2023, with a total of 18,273 new businesses. Bend, a city in Central Oregon, is a key driver of this entrepreneurial boom.
Why is Bend So Appealing to Entrepreneurs?
- Strong Entrepreneurial Spirit: Bend attracts individuals with a strong entrepreneurial drive. They've created an ecosystem where creativity and innovation thrive.
- Supportive Resources: The city boasts an impressive array of resources for startups, including incubators like Bend Tech, the OSU-Cascades innovation hub, and a thriving Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development organization (EDCO).
- Sense of Community: The success of Bend's entrepreneurial ecosystem is driven by a strong sense of community pride, with individuals working together to support early-stage companies.
While Bend's startup scene is thriving, it wasn't always this way. Gary Bracelin, Founder and President of Bend Outdoor Works, remembers a time when support for new businesses was limited. Thankfully, those early challenges have been overcome, paving the way for the flourishing startup environment we see today.
Bend's entrepreneurial success is a testament to the power of a supportive community, readily available resources, and a shared passion for innovation.
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