Prosper Portland
Prosper Portland is the economic and urban development agency for the city of Portland, focusing on building an equitable economy through support for small businesses, workforce training, and job creation. The agency collaborates with partners to drive resources to various city areas, facilitating capital projects and community development.
Services
Prosper Portland offers a range of services aimed at building an equitable economy in Portland. These services include supporting small businesses, improving access to workforce training, and creating jobs for local residents. The agency also provides technical assistance, loans, and access to new markets for Portland companies operating in high-growth sectors. Additionally, Prosper Portland invests financial and human capital into various real estate projects and property ownership initiatives that focus on historically underserved neighborhoods and communities of color.
Economic Development Programs
Prosper Portland runs several key economic development programs to support the city's growth. The Economic Opportunity Initiative Workforce Development Program connects Portlanders to job training and job opportunities. The Community Livability Grant Program aims to enhance the livability of neighborhoods through projects that provide community benefits. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the agency formed the COVID-19 Economic Relief and Recovery Response to help guide the city's economic recovery efforts.
Leadership and Governance
Prosper Portland is headed by an executive director who reports to a five-member volunteer board. This board is composed of local citizens appointed by the mayor and approved by the City Council. The leadership structure ensures that the agency's activities align with the city's broader goals of economic growth and equity.
Mission and Vision
Prosper Portland's mission is to create economic growth and opportunity for the residents of Portland. The agency's vision is for Portland to be one of the most globally competitive, equitable, and healthy cities in the world. Their work is driven by a commitment to advancing equity, particularly racial equity, and making it a foundational aspect of their community and economic development initiatives.
Community Partnerships
Prosper Portland collaborates with various partners to direct public attention and resources to different parts of the city. These partnerships facilitate capital projects such as the development of parks, streetscape improvements, and community centers. By working closely with local organizations, Prosper Portland aims to create vibrant neighborhoods and communities, focusing particularly on areas that have been historically underserved.