Mine the PDC Data Center for Metro-Area Stats and Business Information

PDC’s website Data Center offers a one-stop source for community data, with current reports on numerous data sets including quality of life, demographics, labor, utilities, new economy indicators, education and training. In addition to the Data Center, Portland Prospector online database represents a sampling of available real estate in the metro area. PDC staff can also provide a customized site search based on your exact specifications, such as building type (industrial/flex/ office), square footage, locations, sale or lease, and vacant land. Visit www.pdc.us/research or contact Lynne Boussi at PDC, 503-823-3342.

Development Opportunity Services (DOS)

PDC’s small business “toolkit” includes not only the Business Finance Loan Program and Storefront Improvement Program, but also the Development Opportunity Services (DOS) program. These three programs are often used together to assist small businesses and property owners with planning and implementing projects. DOS is a matching grant program to determine the development potential of commercial and mixed-use properties. It provides technical assistance and resources to help property owners, and in some cases tenants, evaluate possible uses and improvements for underutilized or vacant properties. DOS is available in seven urban renewal areas (Oregon Convention Center, Interstate, Lents, Central Eastside, Downtown Waterfront, River District, South Park Blocks). Local businesses which took advantage of a DOS grant and then continued into an expansion project include Triad Speakers and Courtesy Vending. For more information visit www.pdc.us/DOS, or contact Estee Segal at PDC, 503-823-3317.

PDC Business Finance Programs Mean Real People Finding Real Solutions

PDC’s loan, grant and other assistance programs are helping local company Second Story Interactive build out new space in north Portland, and Second Story principal Brad Johnson sums up the project in positive terms. “After nearly two frustrating years of building searches, the Portland Development Commission helped us find an awesome out-of-the-box solution in the heart of the area we most wanted to be in—and they are helping make the transition more affordable.”

Behind each of PDC’s business finance transactions is a real story like Second Story (read more about it in the Fall 2005 PDC Quarterly). To find out more about PDC Business Finance, contact Alan Stubbs, 503-823-3321 or visit www.pdc.us/business.

Industry Events Coming Up

Portland’s Transportation Competitiveness is the topic of the next Distribution & Logistics Industry Breakfast, February 22, 2006, 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. at the Governor Hotel. Companies involved in electronic commerce are invited to attend the upcoming E-Commerce lunch in early March; date and location to be announced. For more information on either event, contact Melanie Rund at 503-823-3323.

Spark Your Next Meeting With Help From the PDC Speakers Bureau

The PDC Speakers Bureau offers an excellent opportunity for your group to bring a stimulating, fact-filled and relevant subject to life in an upcoming meeting. Topics include PDC’s Vision for the Future, PDC Yesterday and Tomorrow; and overviews of PDC’s Housing and Economic Development programs. Presentations are aimed at neighborhood associations, business associations, non-profits, commercial and housing developers, contractors, homeowner groups, service clubs and chambers of commerce. To schedule a speaker contact Christine Egan at 503-823-3759, or fill out the online request form.

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