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Business District Assistance

This program provides assistance to business district nonprofits whose mission is to foster local economic development and strengthen businesses within their geographic service areas. Support includes grant assistance, and training and technical assistance focused on nonprofit and business district management.

Who is this program for?

This program is designed for existing or emerging nonprofit business district organizations located within Portland city limits. Eligible groups include Business District Associations, Neighborhood Prosperity Network Districts, Enhanced Services Districts, and Neighborhood Associations with a business-focused committee or governing body.

Sign up for our email list to receive updates on upcoming trainings, grant opportunities, news, and events.

2026 Workshop/Webinar Series

This monthly workshop series is designed for business district staff, board members, volunteers, and local business owners who play a key role in leading and sustaining district work. The sessions will help strengthen your district’s impact through practical, right-sized training tailored for the people who make Portland’s business areas welcoming, vibrant, and successful.

Beyond training, you’ll also have the opportunity to network and build connections with other business districts across the city—sharing ideas, resources, and inspiration.

Please RSVP and let us know if you’ll be joining us.

Grant Assistance

  • Vibrant Districts Grant

    The Vibrant Districts Grant provides grants to nonprofit business district organizations. Grants can be used to implement projects or events that increase district vibrancy, enhance visibility and promotion of the district, support staffing or operational improvements.

FAQs

We are already available to offer general support. Program-specific services will launch in Fall 2025.

Yes, please contact us at DistrictSupport@ProsperPortland.us and someone from our team will reach out.

No. Business districts will not be required to pay a membership fee to access trainings or participate in the grant program.

For details, please visit the Vibrant Districts Grant page.

We expect to award approximately $100,000 in grant funds during the 2025–26 fiscal year.

This support is intended to support business district organizations. If you are a business owner needing assistance, please connect with the Portland Office of Small Business.

Business woman

Connect with us

Prosper Portland and the City of Portland are committed to providing meaningful access to Business District Assistance.
If you need services in a language other than English, would like program materials translated, or want more information, please contact us at DistrictSupport@ProsperPortland.us

We’re also here to answer questions or hear how we can better support your district.