Venture Portland Launches Business District Events Hub, Hires Director

With the support of Mayor Wheeler, City Council, and Prosper Portland, and with the help of American Rescue Plan Act funding, Venture Portland has created an Events Hub to support Portland’s Business District Associations (BDAs). The Venture Portland Events Hub will provide information and assistance, technical support, and resources to help volunteer-run BDAs plan and execute public events and promotions. Venture Portland is delighted to welcome McKenzie Malone, our new Events Director, to the team.

McKenzie grew up in Portland and has more than 12 years of event experience. She began her career with the Walt Disney Company in Orlando, FL. After several years with Mickey and Minnie, she excitedly returned home to follow her passion of events and marketing. McKenzie leveled up her skills, first with the NBA (Go Blazers!) and then, the MLB. With the goal of supporting small business and entrepreneurs, she transitioned from the athletic industry and took a role at WeWork. It was there that she discovered her true calling. Currently, McKenzie volunteers at Milk Crate Kitchen and serves on the Emerging Leaders Board for Make-A-Wish, Oregon.

“I am delighted to have McKenzie Malone lead our Events Hub,” said Venture Portland Executive Director, Joy Church. “She has the expertise, talent, and infectious energy that is essential to the success of this exciting new program. Events such as street fairs and block parties are the public-facing activities that showcase what makes each business district unique. Portlanders are excited to attend these types of events again after nearly two years of COVID-related event cancellations.”

Venture Portland will officially roll out their Events Hub in early January 2022.