Get Connected: Small Business Networks and Associations

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Get Started: Resources to help jump start your business including writing business plans, getting funding, start-up assessment tools, and applying for permits

Small business classes and counseling

Get Informed: Online Magazines, Blogs, and Podcasts Dedicated to Small Business

MercyCorps NW

Connect with other entrepreneurs and business networks through social networking sites, business associations, and your local chamber of commerce.


Join a Social Network

  • Linkedin - A social networking site for businesspeople and professionals.
  • Biznik - A social networking site geared specifically towards entrepreneurs.
  • Jigsaw - An online directory of business contacts and companies.


    • Find Chambers of Commerce

  • Portland Chamber of Commerce
  • East Portland Chamber of Commerce
  • Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
  • African American Chamber of Commerce of Oregon
  • Oregon Native American Chamber of Commerce
  • North Clackamas Chamber of Commerce
  • Christian Chamber of Commerce of the Northwest


    • Find a Business Association

  • Portland Business Alliance - Greater Portland’s Chamber of Commerce.
  • Venture Portland - An alliance of Business District Associations (BDA’s) in Portland, OR
  • National Association for the Self Employed - Provides a broad range of resources for the self employed and small businesses.
  • LGBTQ Portland Area Business Association - Promotes business and offers support to Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Transgenders and their allies in business.
  • Urban Entrepreneurs Network - A network of minority and women-owned businesses in Portland and Vancouver.
  • Oregon Association of Minority Entrepreneurs - An association offering support and news updates to minority entrepreneurs.
  • Women Entrepreneurs of Oregon - Organization for women entrepreneurs in Oregon.
  • Oregon Microenterprise Network - A statewide association of microenterprise development programs and their supporters.
  • International Association of Self-Employed Communication Professionals - An association catering to self employed communication professionals.
  • Trillium Artisans - A nonprofit network for artisans in Portland offering business classes, discounted fabrics, and the opportunity to sell through the Trillium storefront.
  • Oregon Entrepreneurs Network - The largest entrepreneur network in Oregon, OEN provides support activities and mentoring to the entrepreneurial community to foster business growth and employment opportunities in Oregon.