Technical Assistance

Each year Venture Portland provides approximately 3,000 hours of training and technical assistance to business district leaders. Technical assistance addresses all aspects of business district operations from insurance coverage to membership growth. One-on-one technical assistance guides business district leaders through the process of applying newly acquired skills in a realistic setting.  Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Business District Annual Check-up

This user-friendly tool is designed to help business districts implement best practices around infrastructure, membership and finances.  Like going to the doctor for an annual physical, Venture Portland encourages business districts to complete the Check-up each year.  The fillable-pdf is easy to complete and submit electronically and includes options to request assistance from Venture Portland. Venture Portland staff will walk you through the process and recommend steps to strengthen your association.

Business District Annual Check-Up™ (PDF Fillable Form)

Benchmarking Success

Do you know how successful your district is when it comes to building strong membership, running a signature event or developing an effective social media presence? Use the Benchmarking Success™ tool to evaluate where your District stands and then apply for funding through Venture Portland Benchmark Grants to help your District grow. 

Benchmarking Success™ Tool (PDF Fillable Form)

Mentoring Connections

Mentoring Connections link emerging and established business district leaders to share best practices including successful event models, vendor resources and valuable lessons learned through past projects.  Contact Venture Portland to get connected today.

Grant Office Hours

Grant Office Hours provide one-on-one assistance during each grant cycle to support the early stages of project planning. Staff are also available the week before grants are due to review final drafts and provide any late-stage assistance needs. Learn More ››

Catalytic Investment Initiative

Now in its third year, the Catalytic Investment Initiative is designed to respond to the disparity among Portland’s business associations.  Participating Catalytic Investment Initiative districts possess a unique demographic and economic profile, business district size, built form and lack of infrastructure pose unique and significant challenges. As a result, participating neighborhood business district associations require targeted support, creative metrics and innovative strategies to ensure small business, and business association, success. Learn More ››