STARTING A BUSINESS IN OREGON

Region: Pacific Northwest 

Capital City: Salem

State Governor: Tina Kotek

Principal Cities: Portland, Salem, Eugene, Gresham, Hillsboro, Bend

Oregon: Where Business Grows

Unlock growth opportunities with the Oregon advantage: from a skilled workforce to supportive state-run programs and a business-friendly ecosystem. Get to know a vibrant state, known for its natural beauty, innovative spirit and strong business environment.

Located in the Pacific Northwest, Oregon boasts a thriving economy driven by key industries such as High Technology, Bioscience and Metals and Machinery. Oregon’s business environment is characterized by a collaborative spirit, supportive infrastructure and cutting-edge research making it a prime location for both startups and established companies seeking growth.

Sweeping view of the Oregon coast including miles of sandy beach

Diverse talent pool
Oregon’s universities are at the forefront of academic excellence, preparing students to lead in its key industries, while in 2025 Oregon was the number one destination for domestic migration, attracting top talent from other states.

Dedicated business support
Oregon’s supportive business ecosystem is fueled by a strong network of incubators, accelerators and industry associations that empower companies to succeed.

Established sector communities
Oregon has become a prime destination for major industry players across several key sectors. Companies like Intel, Genentech and Boeing have set up operations in the state.

Ingrained innovation
Ranked as the 7th leading state for innovation, Oregon is a powerhouse of creativity and technological advancement.

A location to expand and thrive
1-2 hour flights to key locations (LA, San Francisco, Seattle, San Jose, Oakland, Vancouver), with Pacific Rim trade access and easy distribution to California.

Cross-industry collaboration
Oregon’s dynamic economy is powered by the intersection of its major industries, where tech, manufacturing and bioscience overlap and collaborate.

Oregon's Economy State Statistics

4.24 % million
Population
5.2 % %
unemployment rate
$ 330.25
GDP in billion
$ 70823
Per capita personal income
$ 34.37
exports in billion
$ 2.22
labor force in million

Oregon's competitive advantage

Located in the Pacific Northwest, Oregon is a dynamic state known for its diverse economy, innovation, and high quality of life. With its mix of vibrant urban centers like Portland, a growing tech sector, and a strong foundation in industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and clean energy, Oregon offers a fertile ground for business opportunities. The state’s commitment to sustainability, its skilled workforce, and a culture that fosters creativity and entrepreneurship make it an attractive destination for start-ups, established businesses, and investors alike.

Across the 50 states, Oregon ranks:

  • 6th

    For quality of life
    Thanks to the state’s beautiful scenery and outdoor culture. In addition, Oregon was voted the top wine destination in the world in 2025 by VinePair.

  • 7th

    In the innovation index
    Home to a thriving ecosystem of startups, tech companies, and research institutions that drive cutting-edge advancement.

  • 13th

    For economic performance
    Based on a 10-year look at GDP growth, domestic migration, and employment growth.

  • Top 5 for infrastructure

    Strong connectivity and logistics performance
    For exporting goods, supported by efficient transportation networks and strong connectivity through the state’s airports and ports, facilitating seamless distribution across the US and internationally.

    •  
Portland night lights

Key Industries in Oregon

High Technology

Oregon’s Silicon Forest, known for its interconnected growth in its Semiconductor & Electronics and Software & IT sectors, has made a name for the state across the globe.

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Bioscience

Oregon’s Bioscience industry, encompassing Life Sciences & Medicine and Medical Devices, produces groundbreaking research, life-changing products and increased venture capital and foreign direct investment.

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Metals & Machinery

Oregon boasts a rich history in the metals industry, encompassing both primary metals production and burgeoning sectors in Machinery, Aerospace & Defense.

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Food & Beverages

Businesses in Oregon’s Food & Beverages sector produce some of the country’s highest-quality products- all built on a diverse range of agricultural goods.

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Outdoor Gear & Apparel

Oregon’s Outdoor Gear & Apparel Industry, including Apparel & Footwear and Outdoor Gear sectors, thrives on regional expertise and benefits from proximity to the Pacific Rim for easy interaction and exchange with Asia.

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Forestry & Wood Products

Oregon’s Forestry & Wood Products industry, the largest softwood lumber producer in the US, leverages its 30.5 million acres of forestlands and cutting-edge innovation to produce high-quality, value-added wood products.

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Business Services

Oregon’s Business Services Industry is an emerging market for Professional & Technical Services, including Consulting, Advertising, Public Relations, Architectural Services, Graphic & Industrial Design, Market Research, Company Management & Customer Support.

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Existing Investors Oregon

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Contact Information starting a business in Oregon

Sonja Afflerbach
Director Europe FDI 
Frankfurt, Germany

Business Oregon
c/o SSH Consulting GmbH
63069 Offenbach / DE

Laure Mermet
European Representative
Co-located in Paris, France / Milan, Italy
 

TBD