Oregon Workers’ Compensation Costs Expected to Keep Falling
The decline mirrors a national drop in workers comp, but Oregon’s low-cost rival states with less robust protection.
Economy and Finance
Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Dips to 3.4%, Matching Record Low
Manufacturing sector continues to struggle, though there are some bright spots, including transportation equipment.
KeyBank, MESO, Thorns Announce Women-Led Business Pitch Competition
The winning pitch will get a $20,000 prize; all applicants will receive business mentorship and counseling.
Oregon Unemployment Falls for Fifth Consecutive Month
Oregon’s near-record low unemployment mirrors national trends, with government, services, and hospitality recording the biggest job gains.
Comcast RISE Launches Grant Program for Struggling Small Businesses
Applications will be accepted until the end of June.
What Kimberly Branam Wants for Portland
Prosper Portland’s director is optimistic about the city’s prospects and her agency’s efforts to overcome a troubling past.
Sparking Community
An empty storefront in downtown Burns has been remade into a creative space and small-business incubator.
Sponsors See “Path Forward” for Cannabis Banking Bill
The SAFE Banking Act has passed out of the House of Representatives seven times but failed in the Senate.
Intel Confirms Job Cuts Are Coming but Offers Few Specifics
More than 500 California Intel employees lost their jobs in January, but Oregon numbers were not announced.
The Power of Partnership
How the Coos, Curry, and Douglas Counties Business Development Corporation’s award-winning Economic Recovery Initiative set up small businesses and nonprofits in Southern Oregon to thrive