The State Lands Building in Salem houses the central offices of the Oregon Business Development Department. (Oregon State Archives Scenic Images collection)
Present Duties
The department operates as Business Oregon, the state’s economic development agency. Business Oregon has primary offices in Salem and Portland, along with staff located in 12 regions across the state. The agency’s mission is to invest in Oregon businesses, communities and people to promote a globally competitive, diverse and inclusive economy. Business Oregon is focused on five priorities: innovating Oregon’s economy, growing small and middle-market companies, cultivating rural economic stability, advancing economic opportunity for underrepresented people, and ensuring an inclusive, transparent and fiscally healthy agency. Core agency functions include rural community development and infrastructure financing; business retention, expansion and recruitment; export promotion and international trade; industry innovation and research and development; entrepreneurship support and small business assistance; and support for arts and cultural organizations.
The overall work of the department is guided by a nine-member commission with additional input and expertise provided by several other advisory bodies and boards.
Agency Website
Contact Information
Mailing Address:
755 Summer St. NE, Suite 310, Salem 97301
Phone: 503-986-0123; TTY: 1-800-735-2900
Web:
oregon.gov/biz/
Contact:
Sophorn Cheang, Director
Administrative Rules Coordinator:
See Contact List for Business Development
Legal & Legislative Information
Statutory Authority: ORS
285A.070