Frequently Asked Questions
We help Portland’s Green Cities businesses compete globally. As a Prosper Portland program, we provide business development support for Portland companies that fall under four umbrella categories: Environment (Air, Water, Waste), Mobility (connected, autonomous, ridesharing, e-bikes/scooters), Energy (renewable, storage, efficiency), and Built Environment (green building services, products, infrastructure).
This support includes:
- connecting businesses to appropriate resources,
- introducing businesses to new customers and new markets through trade shows and other special events,
- providing and facilitating financial assistance (whether in-house or through referrals), and
- helping businesses become more diverse and inclusive.
Portland is a recognized leader among green cities and we support a strong network of companies who are acknowledged innovators in clean technologies. These firms want to share their expertise with the rest of the world.
Also, we’re a one-stop shop for companies relocating. We guide companies in making the business case for relocating to Portland. Once the decision is made, we assist with permitting, licensing, site location and assembling an inclusive workforce.
For example, Daimler chose Portland over South Carolina as the place to build its electric trucks starting in 2021. The company is spending $200 million on its Swan Island headquarters and is also planning to create a research and development center for autonomous trucks.
As green jobs grow, Portland residents gain more opportunities. Plus, our emphasis on creating more-equitable workplaces is a magnet for companies and workers alike.
People will look to innovators in the Green Cities cluster for jobs and innovative technologies to manage the growing demand for next-generation solutions.
Portland has experienced enormous growth, but not all communities have benefited. The focus is now on how to ensure that growth is equitable and includes historically underrepresented populations.
Green industry has experienced its own changes, with a convergence of renewable energy, mobility, water and waste innovations.
Portland and the state of Oregon have aggressive climate goals. Portland’s goal is to be 100 percent carbon free by 2050. We will continue working to keep Portland at the forefront of environmental innovation and clean technologies. By partnering with the private sector, we leverage technology and private enterprise to help the city meet its decarbonization and environmental goals.