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Igniting innovation across Oregon's Mid-Willamette Valley.

Powered by SEDCOR and Business Oregon, Launch Mid-Valley delivers the resources, connections, and support you need to build a thriving business in Marion, Polk, and Yamhill counties.

 

Launch Mid Valley Startup Bootcamp Weekend Kicks Off THIS MONTH!

The countdown is on! Launch Mid Valley Startup Bootcamp Weekend is happening January 31 to February 2, 2025, at Linfield University’s W.M. Keck Science Complex.

We can’t wait to see you there!

This 2.5-day immersive experience is your chance to transform ideas into action.

Whether you’re a first-time founder, an aspiring entrepreneur, or a professional curious about the startup world, you’ll walk away with essential skills, strategic insights, and powerful connections.

👥 Who Should Attend:

  • First-time founders with big ideas
  • Aspiring entrepreneurs seeking practical insights
  • Professionals exploring the startup ecosystem

💡 What You'll Gain:

  • Hands-on learning from seasoned entrepreneurs
  • Key startup skills and strategic frameworks
  • A network of like-minded innovators
  • Personalized mentorship

Space is limited, and time is running out! Don’t miss this opportunity to ignite your entrepreneurial journey!

Make this month the start of something incredible. We’ll see you at Startup Bootcamp Weekend!

Startup Bootcamp Weekend at Linfield Keck Science Center
 

Meet Our Keynote Speaker: Bob Dalton of Sackcloth & Ashes

What if something as simple as a blanket could change lives and inspire a nationwide movement?

In 2013, Bob Dalton asked local homeless shelters what they needed the most. Their answer, blankets, inspired him to create Sackcloth & Ashes.

Sackcloth & Ashes operates on a powerful 1:1 model: for every blanket sold, one is donated to a local homeless shelter.

But these aren’t ordinary blankets. Made with 100% recycled materials using a water-free, dye-free, and chemical-free process, each one is a testament to Bob’s commitment to sustainability and social impact.

Over time, Bob’s mission grew beyond blankets. He launched Love Your City, a platform that connects people to local nonprofits and amplifies grassroots stories through podcasts and multimedia. 

Now, Bob is bringing his story and passion to the Launch Mid Valley Startup Bootcamp Weekend as a keynote speaker and judge. He also has an exciting surprise announcement for our community!

 

🚀 JOBS Plus Program: Boost Your Workforce, Your Way 🚀

Finding the right talent doesn’t have to be a challenge. With the JOBS Plus Program, businesses can connect with work-ready temporary employees who are receiving public assistance—all while enjoying financial incentives and tailored support to fit your hiring needs.

Here’s why JOBS Plus works for employers:

  • Handpick Your Team: You define the role, select the worker, and train them your way.
  • Significant Savings: Receive reimbursement for wages (up to Oregon’s minimum wage), payroll taxes, and workers’ compensation premiums.
  • Flexible Terms: Offer up to 40 hours per week for six months and end the partnership anytime if needed.
  • Tax Benefits: Access incentives like the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC).
  • Streamlined Process: Simple onboarding and ongoing support for a seamless experience.
Launch Mid-Valley Gift Guide - 2

This isn’t just hiring—it’s an opportunity to evaluate, train, and grow talent in real time, with minimal risk and maximum reward.

Interested in how this program could work for your business? Contact Greg Ivers at 503-947-5403 or email him at gregory.e.ivers@dhsoha.state.or.us to learn more!

 

January’s LMV Visionary: John Mead of Solid Carbon

Concrete is everywhere, from our homes to our roads, and its environmental impact is enormous. Did you know that traditional concrete production is responsible for 7% of carbon emissions contributing to climate change?

Enter John Mead, co-founder and CEO of Solid Carbon, who is on a mission to change that.

With groundbreaking tech innovations, Solid Carbon produces carbon-negative concrete. It’s a solution that doesn’t just reduce emissions but actively sequesters carbon out of the atmosphere.

From sustainable homes for Habitat for Humanity to factory floors in McMinnville, John and the Solid Carbon team’s projects showcase how quality, sustainability, and profitability can go hand in hand.

John is a featured speaker at the Launch Mid Valley Startup Bootcamp. His team is in France for the fourth season of the Holcim Maqer Accelerator Program, where they’ll present their game-changing concrete products. We’re rooting for him!

 

🚀 Dean Craig: Guiding Willamette Valley Businesses to Success 🚀

Startup Bootcamp Weekend at Linfield Keck Science Center

Behind every thriving business is someone who listens, understands the challenges, and offers real solutions.

In Linn, Marion, Polk, and Yamhill counties, Dean Craig, Business Services Director for Willamette Workforce Group, is that person.

Dean is a true connector with over 30 years of experience in human resources and a history of empowering talent. He works tirelessly to align businesses with the right resources and people to overcome obstacles and achieve sustainable growth.

Now, he’s bringing his expertise to the Launch Mid Valley Startup Bootcamp from January 31 to February 2, 2025, at Linfield University’s W.M. Keck Science Complex. This is your chance to work with Dean and learn how to turn challenges into opportunities for success.

📩 Email Malee Ojua, Innovation Navigator, with any questions about Launch Mid-Valley or the Startup Bootcamp Weekend at malee@sacredfirecreative.com.
 
1-1 Advising

Ready to Scale Your Startup?

Launch Mid-Valley Innovation Hub offers 1:1 business advising for traded-sector, scalable startups ready to grow—let’s turn your vision into success! Apply for FREE Advising today! 

 

 
Coffee Club for Startups

Power up your hustle with Coffee Clubs for Startups and Entrepreneurs in the Mid-Willamette Valley!

Sip, connect, and spark game-changing ideas.

Don’t wait—secure your spot today and fuel your entrepreneurial journey!

We've partnered with Indy Idea Hub to bring you this new HubTalk.

Join us on March 13th at 4:30 PM in Independence, to learn more about how to fund your business.

Registration is FREE, but spots are limited—reserve yours today!

 

Got questions? Email Malee Ojua, Innovation Navigator for the Launch Mid-Valley Innovation Hub, at malee@sacredfirecreative.com.

 
This email was sent on behalf of Launch Mid-Valley Innovation Hub. Launch Mid-Valley is a regional initiative focused on empowering entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses throughout Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley. To learn more about Launch Mid-Valley and stay updated, visit our website. Copyright © 2024 Launch Mid-Valley & Sacred Fire Creative. All rights reserved. To unsubscribe click here. If you have questions or comments concerning this email, contact malee@sacredfirecreative.com.