Pacific Power Foundation Awards OEN a $10,000 Grant

November  13, 2007, Portland, Ore. -- Recently, the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network (OEN) was awarded a $10,000 grant from the Pacific Power Foundation to support the OEN Entrepreneurial Services Outreach Volunteer Training Program.  This training is the next phase of a pilot outreach program that was launched in 2006 and will benefit entrepreneurs and investors alike in Hood River, Pendleton, Joseph and Enterprise.

In 2006, OEN received grant funds from the US Economic Development Administration to extend its educational programs to a broader geographic region in the state and to build the infrastructure for a state-wide angel investor network.  An advisory committee, comprised of three Economic Development District and Small Business Development Center Directors, was convened to determine what business development resources were lacking and needed in Hood River, Pendleton, Joseph and Enterprise.  The number one need was “Networking”; the number two need was “Business Plan Development” from concept, to business plan development, mentoring, review and funding.   

To address these needs, a popular OEN networking/educational program, PubTalk™ was replicated and launched in the communities listed above.  This successful program allows ample time for networking before the keynote presentation.  Typically, two early stage companies seeking advice or capital investment present 10 minute “pitches” to the audience directly after the keynote speaker.  As well-seasoned executives, keynote speakers provide advice and guidance related to many of the issues, challenges and opportunities less experienced entrepreneurs will face along the path to success.  To date, six events have been launched, five companies have been profiled, and one of these companies has connected with an investor.

The Entrepreneurial Services Outreach Volunteer Training Program will build on the success of the PubTalk™ program by 1) Identifying and recruiting local volunteer business experts 2) Establishing an Entrepreneurial Services Committee in Hood River, Pendleton and Joseph/Enterprise to plan for future PubTalk™ programs and Start Up Services Workshops, 3) Providing local Volunteer Committee Member Training by experienced OEN volunteer counterparts, 4) Providing on-going e-support via OEN volunteer counterparts and OEN web portal.