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Articles by Katie Yates
Chamber unveils 2025 Policy Agenda
Signs of Progress: Successes Worth Building On When the public and private sectors work together, problems can be solved urgently and effectively. Recent progress includes: Downtown foot traffic continues to rise year over year, with an overall 3% increase from 2023 to 2024 highlighted by a growth in daily employee traffic of 8%. After the formation of the Auto Theft Task Force in 2023, vehicle thefts have declined to 2014 levels after reaching record highs in 2021-22.
Chamber releases poll showing notable improvement on voters quality of life
From December 12 to December 20, 2024, DHM Research conducted a hybrid survey of 700 registered voters in the tri-county area. The purpose of the survey was to track opinions about the economy, jobs, and community issues over time, assess voters’ top priorities, and measure voters’ attitudes about multiple tax problems. Survey Data Each year, the Portland Metro Chamber contracts with DHM Research to survey voters and better understand the shared experience of those who live here.
Chamber supports Portland General Electric's Harborton Reliability Project
The Portland Metro Chamber is proud to support Portland General Electric’s (PGE) Harborton Reliability Project, a critical initiative aimed at enhancing the Greater Portland region’s energy infrastructure. This project aligns with the Chamber’s mission to foster economic opportunity and improve the well-being of residents and businesses across the area. Why This Project Matters The Harborton Reliability Project addresses pressing energy challenges in our region.
Member Spotlight: OSU Portland Center
OSU Portland Center Location: 555 SW Morrison Street, Portland, OR 97204 Vice President, Donor Engagement, and Chief Marketing Officer: Kristin Watkins Interim Vice Provost for Extension and Engagement Director: Kristopher Elliott Meet our member, Oregon State University’s (OSU) Portland Center! Oregon State University is a vibrant community of innovators, problem-solvers, and change-makers, committed to building a better future with care for the natural world.
Member Spotlight: Morgan Communications
Morgan Communications Location: PO BOX 19450, PORTLAND, OR 97280 Founder: Oonagh Morgan Hurst Introducing our Chamber member, Morgan Communications! Led by Oonagh Morgan Hurst, a seasoned PR expert with over 23 years of experience, the agency offers services in media relations, branding, content development, crisis communications, and more. Oonagh has worked internationally with clients from startups to global tech giants. Now running her own agency, she’s ready to help your business succeed.
Chamber advocates for MLB team and new stadium in South Waterfront
On October 30, Andrew Hoan, President & CEO of the Portland Metro Chamber, addressed the Portland City Council, highlighting the significant economic, cultural, and social benefits that a Major League Baseball (MLB) team would bring to the Portland region.
Sacramento Best Practices Trip offers perspective on Portland's challenges and opportunities
Earlier this month, the Portland Metro Chamber, in collaboration with Greater Portland, Inc., led a delegation of 100 business and civic leaders to Sacramento, California. The goals: to foster connections with our peer region to the south, explore how they address common challenges, and learn how California’s capital city has fostered economic development. In 2024, Sacramento was identified as one of Portland’s new peer regions in the Portland Metro Chamber’s 2024 State of the Economy report.
Member Spotlight: Gensler
Gensler Location: Sixth at Yamhill Building, 811 SW Sixth Ave., Suite 300, Portland, Oregon 97204 Portland office Managing Directors: Maurice Reid and Hannah Dahlquist Meet our Chamber member, Gensler, a global design firm with an office in the heart of Portland focused on enhancing the human experience through innovative and creative solutions.
Chamber endorses Tootie Smith for Clackamas County Chair
The Portland Metro Chamber urges its members and partners to support incumbent Tootie Smith for Clackamas County Chair. Tootie Smith has deep knowledge of the critical issues impacting Clackamas County, has shown strong leadership and has committed to greater collaboration with the Chamber and cooperation between other leaders across the region.
Meet the women and organizations breaking Portland’s glass ceiling
October 3, 2024 4:00-6:00 p.m. Providence Park Portland, OR Register Now Since 2012, the Portland Metro Chamber has hosted A Place With No Ceiling, an annual gathering to recognize outstanding accomplishments by women business leaders, as well as organizations that champion women’s success. This event brings together hundreds of Portland area women professionals for networking, mentorship, and community-building.
Portland Metro Chamber receives Communications Excellence Award
The Portland Metro Chamber proudly highlighted its recent rebranding success at the ACCE (Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives) annual convention in Dallas on July 17. This convention serves as a platform to showcase the best in communications and marketing work produced by chambers of commerce and similar organizations nationwide. The winning entries represent some of the most innovative and impactful efforts from ACCE member organizations of all types and sizes.
Chamber announces Community Leader Network Program
The Portland Metro Chamber has been proudly advocating for the business interests of the greater Portland region for well over 100 years. We’ve earned the reputation of one of the most influential and effective business organizations in the state, and we could not have done that without you! Together, we have helped align the compass for the advocacy work that all our respected organizations, businesses, education, and cultural institutions strive towards every day.
Member Spotlight: Red Castle Games
Location: 7160 SE Foster Rd, Portland OR 97206 Assistant Manager: Kayla Charlton Meet our Chamber member, Red Castle Games! Red Castle Games is a hub for fun and camaraderie in our city, providing a space for gamers of all levels to discover new and old games, make friends, and share their love of gaming. Learn more about Red Castle Games: redcastlegames.com VIDEO
A Love Note to Portland: Portland Trail Blazers
Portland Trail Blazers share their love for our city! Their contribution to our city goes beyond basketball, amplifying economic growth and attracting tourists. VIDEO
Member Spotlight: Paddy's Bar & Grill
Paddy’s Bar & Grill Location: 65 SW Yamhill St, Portland, OR 97204 Co-Founder: Josh Johnston Meet our long-time Chamber member, Paddy’s Bar & Grill! Paddy’s is Portland’s oldest Irish pub and has been serving traditional Irish food and drinks for over 40 years. They also host Portland’s best St. Patrick’s Day Festival. Don’t believe us, watch for yourself! Learn more about Paddy’s Bar & Grill: https://paddys.com/
A Love Note to Portland: Portland Rose Festival Foundation
Portland Rose Festival Foundation is blooming with love for our city! Nick Brodnicki, Chief Operating Officer of the Rose Festival, shares how they are championing small businesses this festival season.
2024 Rose City 5K Run united both businesses and residents
On Thursday, May 9, downtown Portland played host to an impressive turnout of nearly 400 participants for the fourth year of the Rose City 5k Run presented by Nike. Irrespective of athletic prowess, individuals from all backgrounds were welcomed to participate, either as individual participants or teams, fostering a sense of unity and community.
Member Spotlight: Migration Brewing
Migration Brewing Company Pub Locations: Glisan, Gresham, Williams, and various pop-ups Founders: McKean Banzer-Lausberg, Colin Rath, Eric Banzer-Lausberg, and Mike Branes Meet our Chamber member, Migration Brewing Company! In the Spring of 2017, a pivotal development in their journey took place—they signed a contract with the most sizable beverage distributor on the West Coast, paving the way for the opening of their 20,000-square-foot Gresham production facility in 2018.
City adopts the Chamber's Small Business Report presented by Comcast
On April 10, the Portland Metro Chamber, in collaboration with Comcast and Prosper Portland, had the privilege of presenting our 2023 State of Small Business Report to the Portland City Council. This initiative was made possible through the generous support of Comcast’s RISE program, enabling us to shed light on the challenges and opportunities facing our vibrant small business community.
Calling All Portland Nonprofits: Partner with EPOP for 2024-25
Are you a Portland-based nonprofit looking to amplify your impact and connect with engaged professionals? The Emerging Professionals of Portland (EPOP), a career development program by the Portland Metro Chamber, invites you to apply to become an EPOP nonprofit partner for 2024-25! Each year, EPOP selects 10 nonprofits to partner with from July to June.
The Chamber joins nationwide effort for extension of Affordable Connectivity Program
The Portland Metro Chamber has joined a coalition of chambers of commerce and business organizations across the United States in backing the “Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act.” This bipartisan initiative aims to extend the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides essential support for lower-income Americans to access the internet.
Member Spotlight: El Gaucho Portland
319 SW Broadway Portland, OR 97205 General Manager: Gillian Duff Meet our member, El Gaucho Portland! Join us in celebrating a significant milestone with El Gaucho Portland as they mark their 24th anniversary this week. Their team of expert chefs and dedicated staff are here to provide you with tableside service that goes beyond just a meal.
Become a Sponsor of Coraline's Curious Cat Trail in Portland
This August and September, downtown Portland will buzz with creativity as Coraline’s Curious Cat Trail brings unique cat sculptures to its streets. It’s more than an art exhibition; it’s a celebration of community and generosity, benefiting Oregon Health & Science University Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. Businesses and individuals can sponsor unique cat sculptures, created and decorated by local artists.
Chamber advocates for Expanded Business Incentive Tax Credit to revitalize downtown
On February 28, Jon Isaacs, the Executive Vice President of Public Affairs for the Portland Metro Chamber, testified to Mayor Ted Wheeler and City Commissioners Rene Gonzalez, Mingus Mapps, Carmen Rubio, and Dan Ryan, advocating for significant amendments to the Downtown Business Incentive Tax Credit (DBITC) Code.
Member Spotlight: Alberta Eye Care
Alberta Eye Care 2021 NE Alberta St. Portland, OR 97211 Co-Founders: Dr. Laura Armstrong and James Armstrong Meet our member Alberta Eye Care, a small and family-owned business in Portland. With a focus on comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, and optical services, they provide personalized care that caters to each individual’s unique needs.
Coraline’s Curious Cat Trail descends upon downtown Portland in celebration of 15th anniversary of Laika’s debut film
LAIKA, the Visit Downtown Campaign, Wild in Art, and OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital will kick off the countdown to Coraline’s Curious Cat Trail on Thursday, February 22nd from 4:30-6:30 pm at LAIKA Studios. Coraline’s Curious Cat Trail is coming to Portland this August. The trail will feature 30 almost six-foottall ‘Cat’ sculptures stationed throughout downtown Portland, creating a free art trail for visitors complete with maps, a dedicated website, and social media.
A Love Note to Portland: Woonwinkel
Woonwinkel celebrates the creative spirit of downtown Portland and the small businesses that make it thrive. VIDEO
Chamber endorses Senate Bill 1553
On February 12, Jon Isaacs, the Executive Vice President of Public Affairs for the Portland Metro Chamber, spoke before the Senate Committee On Judiciary chaired by Senator Floyd Prozanski and Vice Chair Senator Kim Thatcher, advocating for the endorsement of Senate Bill 1553, especially with Senator Lieber’s amendments.
Chamber testifies in support of House Bill 4002
On February 7, Jon Isaacs, the Executive Vice President of Public Affairs for the Portland Metro Chamber, addressed the Joint Committee on Addiction and Community Safety, chaired by Senator Kate Lieber (D-Beaverton) and Representative Jason Kropf (D-Bend), advocating for immediate action against the rampant proliferation of fentanyl in Portland.
Chamber releases poll showing voters are concerned about quality of life
From December 13 to December 19, 2023, DHM Research conducted a hybrid survey of 500 registered voters in the tri-county area. The purpose of the survey was to track opinions about the economy, jobs, and community issues over time, assess voters’ top priorities, and measure voters’ attitudes about multiple tax problems. Key Findings 78% of voters say that quality of life is getting worse- remains consistent to 2022.
Chamber Releases 2024 Policy Agenda
Over the past five years, Portland has faced a cascading series of crises that have measurably damaged our city’s reputation and spurred the realization that the condition on the streets is simply not consistent with Portland’s values. After decades of growth, Portland began to lose population.
Why funding the I-5 Rose Quarter Improvement Project is critical
Opinion piece originally published by Portland Business Journal on 2.6.24 The Oregon Department of Transportation’s Rose Quarter Improvement Project would construct a highway cover, multimodal street improvements and a separate pedestrian and bicycle bridge over I-5 connecting each side of the Albina neighborhood.
Auto Theft and Retail Theft Task Force reports on progress
On February 5, the Portland Metro Chamber joined Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson, Portland Police Bureau Chief Bob Day, Multnomah County Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell, Gresham Police Chief Travis Gullberg to update the public on the progress of the Auto and Retail Theft Task Force.
Member Spotlight: Huber's Cafe
411 Southwest 3rd Avenue Portland, OR 97204 Owner and President: James Louie Introducing Huber’s Cafe, a proud member of our Chamber for many years! With a legacy dating back to 1879, Huber’s proudly holds the title of Portland’s Oldest Restaurant. Indulge in their famous traditional turkey dinner or savor their expertly crafted signature drink, Spanish Coffee, served with flair right at your table.
A Love Note to Portland: Portland Gear
Portland Gear proudly conveys their passion for Portland, highlighting the excitement around the opportunities with their new downtown store. VIDEO
Chamber Supports Housing Regulatory Relief Project and Proposed Amendments
On January 9, the Portland Metro Chamber, representing thousands of businesses and individuals committed to addressing Portland’s pressing challenges, testified to the Portland City Council to express support for the Housing Regulatory Relief Project. The Chamber commends the City’s focus on increasing housing production as a pivotal strategy to tackle the housing affordability crisis, reduce homelessness, and foster economic prosperity.
2023 Regional Transportation Plan Adopted
The Metro Council formally approved the 2023 Regional Transportation Plan on November 30th. This collaborative effort between the Portland Metro Chamber and Oregon Metro includes the High-Capacity Transit Strategy. The decision aligns with recommendations put forth by the Metro Policy Advisory Committee and the Joint Policy Advisory Committee on Transportation.
2023 PDX Holiday Pop-Ups: Downtown for the Holidays!
Portland Metro Chamber and Downtown Portland Clean & Safe are excited to unveil the lineup for this year’s Holiday PDX Pop-Up Shops. Discover unique finds like green beauty products at Blush Beauty Bar, colorful socks at Wee Sock Shop, positive fashion at Energy iz Everything, and individualistic streetwear at Akepele Apparel.
We're Hiring A Director for Downtown Activations
Join an exceptional team committed to reviving downtown Portland! The Portland Metro Chamber and Downtown Portland Clean & Safe are hiring an event and customer service expert to lead the charge in revitalizing and transforming downtown Portland. The role of Director for Downtown Activations entails the revitalization and transformation of downtown Portland through the coordination of dynamic events and placemaking initiatives, alongside the management of tourism information.
A Love Note to Portland: Energy Iz Everything
Discover the passion of Energy Iz Everything as they make a positive impact on social change in downtown Portland. From savoring the vibrant food scene to embracing the breathtaking nature, their love for this city is truly inspiring! VIDEO
A Love Note to Portland: Aluma Aesthetic Medicine
Aluma Aesthetic Medicine expresses their appreciation for the city’s craft ethos and conveys their affection for Portland as a small business! VIDEO
A Love Note to Portland: Portland General Electric
Check out how Portland General Electric has been dedicated to serving the Portland community for over 130 years!
A Love Note to Portland: Melvin Mark Brokerage Company
Melvin Mark Brokerage Company demonstrates its enduring dedication to Portland and its ongoing efforts to create a meaningful influence on the city. VIDEO
Chamber spearheads creation and funding for Downtown Hotel Security District
The Portland Metro Chamber and its affiliate partner, Downtown Portland Clean and Safe, have successfully advocated for the creation of a new Hotel Security District in downtown Portland with increased funding to support enhanced security for Downtown’s vital hospitality and tourism sector.
Celebrating the next generation of women leaders in the business community
The Portland Metro Chamber is honoring special achievements by women leaders and companies that support women in various industries in the Pacific Northwest. Reegan Rae is the first female Co-CEO of Arnerich Massena; an independent investment firm in Portland. Lane Powell, one of the Pacific Northwest’s oldest law firms, and Quinn Thomas, a world-class marketing communications agency.
Chamber testifies in support of economic growth and support to local employers
On Thursday, August 31, the Portland Metro Chamber (PMC) testified before Portland City Council in support of three resolutions, Agenda Items 733-735, changing the East Portland and Portland Enterprise Zones (E-Zones) and granting an employment increase waiver for Daimler, a significant local employer. In a noteworthy session, all three resolutions passed unanimously with a 3-0 vote. Jay Clark, PMC Director of Government Relations, delivered a compelling testimony in favor of these resolutions.
A Love Note to Portland: TMT Development
Discover how¬†TMT Development‘s unwavering dedication has made a lasting impact on Portland. VIDEO
Member Spotlight: Aluma Aesthetic Medicine
1421 SE 13th Ave Portland, OR 97214 alumapdx.com Medical Director & Founder: Dr. Nathaniel Brigham Operations & Founder: Aimee Brigham We are thrilled to introduce our newest member, Aluma Aesthetic Medicine! Inspired by treatment advances that create more natural results, Aluma focuses on providing personalized, uncompromising aesthetic care while applying a comprehensive, evidence-based approach.
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