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The Brief

Funding Overview

• Grant Awarded: The City of Irrigon has successfully secured a $1 million grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration specifically aimed at launching a new small business incubator project.
• Project Scope: This innovative facility is designed to accommodate approximately three to four business tenants, featuring shared facilities that are essential in minimizing startup costs for budding entrepreneurs.
• Construction Timeline: The first phase of construction is projected to complete by December of this year.

Economic Development in Irrigon, Oregon

IRRIGON, Ore. — The City of Irrigon is embarking on an ambitious journey to stimulate its local economy through a groundbreaking small business incubator initiative. This project aims to foster economic growth by supporting entrepreneurs who may find it challenging to afford traditional brick-and-mortar storefronts.

Identified as a crucial element in the city’s five-year strategic plan, this incubator project stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to economic diversification and support.

Grant Funding and Local Contributions

In 2022, the city was awarded the grant of $1 million from the U.S. Small Business Administration, thanks to collaborative efforts with the Port of Morrow. To further bolster this initiative, the Columbia River Enterprise Zone is contributing additional local funding. This enterprise zone generates vital economic development funds sourced from substantial industrial projects, including data centers and renewable energy initiatives, rather than relying on local taxes.

"An incubator’s primary purpose is to assist businesses or individuals in establishing themselves so that they can grow sustainably. One of the significant challenges is the financial burden associated with starting a physical location," explained Aaron Palmquist, City Manager of Irrigon. “We specifically targeted this grant program to assist women, minorities, and others who may face financial hurdles.”

Project Modifications Due to Rising Costs

Due to the increasing costs of construction materials and services, the incubator building will be smaller than initially planned. Nevertheless, it will still accommodate the same number of three to four business tenants, featuring essential shared facilities aimed at reducing operational costs for startups. The city is prepared to invest an additional $300,000 to $400,000 to help bring this project to fruition.

"We had to make some compromises along the way due to rising costs. Our initial grant amounted to a million dollars, and with the city’s extra financial commitment, we will achieve a robust facility," Palmquist remarked.

Long-Term Economic Vision for Irrigon

City officials regard the establishment of this incubator as merely the first step in a broader strategy to transform Irrigon into a self-sustaining economic hub. The ultimate objective is to attract essential services that would encourage residents to stay local for their basic needs instead of traveling to neighboring cities like Hermiston or the Tri-Cities.

Palmquist elaborated, “Imagine someone opening a dental office—they’re fostering a small business that encourages local shopping instead of requiring residents to drive to Hermiston or the Tri-Cities for such services.”

Community Interest and Future Business Prospects

The residents of Irrigon have actively expressed enthusiasm for various business concepts, including essential services like laundromats and salons. While the city has yet to finalize the specific tenants for the incubator, city leaders firmly believe that fostering the growth of small businesses is vital for long-term economic stability.

"The backbone of America truly lies in small businesses," noted Palmquist. "If we aspire for stability and economic growth in Irrigon, nurturing our small business sector will be at the core of our strategy."

Keeping Opportunities Local

City planners have designed the incubator to maintain investments, services, and opportunities within the community. The first phase of the construction project is set to conclude by December, paving the way for an exciting new chapter for local entrepreneurs.

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By utilizing technology to clarify legal language, the incubator can serve as a powerful launchpad for local entrepreneurs, empowering them to thrive in the small business ecosystem while embracing the future with clarity.

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