By Laura Swanson
Tillamook’s selection as a Ford Family Foundation “GRO Program” recipient comes at an excellent time. The Economic Development Council of Tillamook County Director Terre Cooper is ready to gather community input and identify needs to develop businesses and an entrepreneur support network. “This program is perfectly suited to Tillamook,” commented Cooper. “The community was built by those with a pioneering, entrepreneurial spirit.” Through the GRO program* grassroots efforts will assist building businesses with mentorships, monthly meet-ups and more.
What does the Economic Development Council do?
During the pandemic, the EDC was the conduit for grants and funding to local businesses, and its impact is “behind-the-scenes.” To assist businesses, Cooper is working on infrastructure to support businesses – big picture issues: broadband, housing, child care. “We’re the connectors to state agencies, policy, organizations like Col-Pac, people and resources that will benefit business in Tillamook,” explained Cooper. “We’re here to work on solutions for local businesses countywide.”
Membership in the Economic Development Council of Tillamook County
Formed in 1995, the EDCTC is an intergovernmental agreement between the county, cities and ports in Tillamook County, as well as key organizations with the intent to improve the standard of living in Tillamook County through the development of family wage jobs.
The EDC welcomes all businesses and individuals who are interested in improving the vitality of the Tillamook County economy to join at www.edctc.com/membership.
The EDC provides:
- Information on tax incentives that may be available for business expansion
- Assistance in locating a variety of available financing options include the EDCTC Revolving Loan Fund
- Assistance to businesses interested in relocating to Tillamook County
- Assistance with Oregon Enterprise Zone applications
EDCTC is proud to work in partnership with the Tillamook Small Business Development Center, Tillamook Bay Community College, Business Oregon and Regional Solutions, WorkSource Oregon, Tillamook Employers Council, Pacific NW Works, local business and schools, Chambers of Commerce, and other state and local agencies.
The benefits of EDCTC membership for businesses is being part of the conversation – What do you want this community to be? Where to do you want it to go? What do you want it to look like? It’s a collaboration of building a sustainable economy that works for Tillamook County. “We aren’t talking about growth for growth’s sake,” said Cooper. “It’s about balance, planned economic growth that happens in the way the community wants it to,” she continued.
Often asked about why the EDC isn’t “bringing more businesses to Tillamook County.” Cooper counters, “That would be irresponsible – there’s no housing or staffing. We need to focus on infrastructure, attainable, workforce housing, training programs and supporting the businesses that are here. Progress is about change, but we are not trying to change the culture and character of the community. We are here to help the community to be its best self.”
The Ford Family Foundation GRO program is about growing businesses within Tillamook County. The community was built by pioneers — the original entrepreneurs! Through a variety of engagement events and community outreach, the EDCTC hopes to identify business and services that needed and help to facilitate new business development.
Meet & Greet – GRO Tillamook launch – April 26th from 5:30 to 7 pm at the Partners for Rural Innovation building.
Watch for more information about the Tillamook “GRO” program and opportunities for the public to engage with the Economic Development Council.
