Our Mission
Our History
The City of Portland’s Office of Economic Opportunity was established in 2016 as part of a strategic goal set by the City Council to enhance economic integration for immigrants and underserved residents. Recognizing the crucial role that immigration plays in the city's economic growth, the Economic Development Committee conducted extensive research and public engagement on this topic, including six public hearings, over 25 meetings with community stakeholders, a public conference, and in depth research into regional and national best practices.
Through this process, stakeholders highlighted the need for improved economic opportunities for not only immigrants but also youth, people of color, and other underrepresented populations. This consensus underscored the belief that the City has a vital role to play in fostering an inclusive workforce and region, and as a result of these discussions, the Office of Economic Opportunity was created to facilitate access to high-quality job training and workforce preparation, while also serving as a connector among service organizations, employers, community leaders and job seekers.
Mission + Vision
At the Office of Economic Opportunity, we believe in the power of collective impact — the idea that by working together across sectors, we can create lasting change and elevate opportunities for all Portland residents. Our office serves as a connector, bringing together community organizations, businesses, and government agencies to address key areas of economic opportunity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that every individual has the support and resources they need to thrive.
Mission: To develop and strengthen the connective tissue- infrastructure- that aligns and integrates community services, ensuring effective collaboration across sectors for enhanced economic opportunity, joint policy development and accessibility for Portland’s residents.
Vision: A future where all individuals have access to coordinated services that meet their needs, facilitated by a robust infrastructure of shared goals, an interconnected community and collaborative efforts that lead to sustainable economic mobility, resilience, and well-being for all.