Local businesses in Clackamas County are getting a boost, as officials have opened applications for a grant program aimed at developing the trade sector. The Business Development Grant Program is now accepting proposals, with a total of $650,000 available to applicants in this funding round. Firms interested in scaling up operations or investing in new technology can apply for grants of up to $100,000, with the stipulation that each grant must be matched by the applicant, dollar for dollar.
This grant program, greenlit by the Clackamas County Board of Commissioners back in April 2024, is looking to support growth that includes expanding production or training employees. According to a notice posted by the Clackamas County, "Supporting our traded-sector businesses is essential to the economic vitality of Clackamas County," Laura Edmonds, manager of Clackamas County Office of Economic Development, said. By offering this financial backing, the county aims to bolster local employers and simultaneously inject a shot of competitiveness and innovation into the regional economy.
The program's application window opened on Sept. 4, and will run through Oct. 13, 2025. Interested businesses should prepare to apply electronically, as the county has made it clear—paper applications are not on the table. To provide potential applicants with necessary details, an informational webinar is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. on Sept. 16, 2025. Spaces for the webinar are limited, so registration, which is required, should be taken care of promptly.
For businesses eyeing this opportunity, not a moment should be wasted. The deadline to get applications in is set for 5 p.m. on the closing date of Oct. 13.
