Contact: Shawn Uhlman, PDC, 503-823-7994
February 14, 2013
Portland Development Commission has a sweet deal to announce this Valentine’s Day: the launch of Startup PDX:Challenge, Portland’s search for the right match for our growing entrepreneurial community. Applications open Thursday, February 14 for an international competition to select up to six startup businesses to receive a $10,000 working capital grant, a full year of rent-free office space in Portland’s Produce Row, and free professional advice and services. For-profit startups in any industry are invited to apply.
Portland is deeply grounded in a sense of community and collaboration. It’s no coincidence that in this city known for its bikes, brews and beauty, startups have grown and thrived – including three area firms which landed on the Forbes 2013 list of the Most Promising Companies. Startup PDX:Challenge – the first of its kind on the West Coast –is yet another example of Portland’s national emergence as a top destination to grow a business and join a network of experienced and innovative peers competing in the global economy.
Patrick Quinton, PDC Executive Director, said, “The Challenge leverages our partnerships with the city’s outstanding service providers and accelerator programs. We are hoping to attract entrepreneurs who can tap into our startup ecosystem to create the next generation of successful Portland companies.”
Submissions are due April 4. Facts, FAQs and application are at www.startuppdxchallenge.com
More about the Portland entrepreneurial community:
Come to Portland, We’re Finally Ready to Rock
The Wall Street Journal, 2/1/13
How Could the Valley be any Better?
The Wall Street Journal, 2/1/13
Looking for Top Talent? Portland’s Got It
The Wall Street Journal, 2/1/13
