IPRE’s UO Economic Development Administration University Center is pleased to present our latest Perceptions and Needs of Economic Development Programs in Oregon report. This is the third statewide assessment we’ve completed since 2012. The intent is to help inform economic development practitioners and decision makers on needs related to economic development in Oregon. This report was partially funded through our the Economic Development Administration University Center grant.
Key takeaways from the report include:
- Most respondents indicate that they have economic development goals, strategies, or policies that go beyond the requirements of Oregon Statewide Planning Goal 9.
- Economic development is perceived as important, but many communities do not achieve the outcomes identified in their plans.
- Survey respondents agreed that coordination is essential, not easy, worth the effort, and often ineffective.
- Respondents perceived similar assets and barriers to the 2012 and 2017 Economic Development Needs Assessment.
- Respondents indicated familiarity and understanding of economic resiliency concepts, but do not think communities adequately plan for it.
- Respondent’s greatest identified needs include funding, stronger leadership, a better trained and maintained workforce, technical assistance, and better coordination.
We hope readers find the results both interesting and motivating. You can download the report using the link below.
Economic Development Needs 2024 Final
Feel free to reach out with any questions or comments. You can direct inquiries to Bob Parker.
A big THANK YOU to all of the organizational partners who assisted with survey distribution!