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George Fox University, 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

George Fox University, 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

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OREGON STARTUP CONFERENCE
Where Innovation Meets Community

Why Attend?

Entrepreneurship doesn’t happen alone. It thrives in community​.

The Oregon Startup Conference is where your momentum begins. It’s where ambitious founders, bold investors, curious students, and innovative minds come together to ignite ideas, spark connections, and fuel the future of business.

Step into the room where real conversations happen, partnerships are born, and the big moves are set in motion. This Conference is the catalyst for what’s next.

The Conference

The Oregon Startup Conference is a celebration of entrepreneurship’s power to spark connection, unlock opportunity, and shape the future of our region.

This event is hosted by Launch Mid-Valley, the Mid-Willamette Valley Innovation Hub with funding from Business Oregon, and SEDCOR.

startup champions

Bob Dalton

SPEAKER

Bob Dalton is a social entrepreneur and the founder of Sackcloth & Ashes, a nationally recognized, mission-driven company that donates a blanket to homeless shelters for every blanket sold.

HELEN ANDERSON

JUDGE

Helen Anderson, founder of HelloCare, combines her nursing expertise and entrepreneurial background to create personalized care plans and lead skilled caregiver teams, empowering seniors to maintain health, independence, and dignity in their homes.

Emily Cadiz

SPEAKER

Emily Cadiz is the founder and CEO of Finnegan the Dragon, a preschool that focuses on kids, language development, communication, and reading readiness, recently awarded funding by Business Oregon.

Pallavi Pande

SPEAKER

Pallavi Pande is the founder of Dtocs LLC, a company that produces disposable and 100% environmentally safe tableware and supports communities in US and India

Paul Jensen

JUDGE

Paul Jensen is the President and Managing Member of High Five Advisors, LLC, a consulting firm specializing in wealth management, business strategy, and operational improvements.

Jamie Bianchini

SPEAKER

Jamie Bianchini is a social entrepreneur and adventurer who cycled through 81 countries and leads ventures like LuDela and Purpose In Expenses to blend business with impact.

Kieran Bailey

SPEAKER

Kieran Bailey is the founder of Saije Esthetics and a licensed advanced aesthetician specializing in acne treatment, Hydrafacial, and RF microneedling in Beaverton, Oregon.

Kristy Runge

JUDGE

Kristy Runge is the CEO of HelloCare, a company that provides compassionate, personalized, and on-call care for seniors who have chosen to age in place at home

Patrick Crowley

SPEAKER

Patrick Crowley is the founder and CEO of Chapul Farms, a company pioneering the use of insect agriculture to promote sustainable food systems.

tracy camp

Tracy Camp

SPEAKER

Tracy Camp is the CEO and co-founder of UpSight Security, a cybersecurity startup that leverages AI to combat today’s most advanced cyber threats.

Our Partners and Sponsors

Business Oregon

Business Oregon is the state's economic development agency, investing in businesses, communities, and people to promote a globally competitive, diverse, and inclusive economy.

George Fox University

A Christ-centered institution, George Fox University equips students with knowledge, character, and skills to serve and lead in a global community.

SEDCOR

Dedicated to enhancing the Mid-Willamette Valley economy, SEDCOR builds partnerships to create jobs, foster investment, and support business success.

WaFd Bank

WaFd Bank is a local bank with more than 200 branches in 9 states to serve you Thousands of FEE-FREE ATMs 24/7 online & mobile banking with mobile check deposit Drive up ATMs

Chehalem VIA

supports startups with free workspace, mentoring, and industry connections to accelerate innovation in the Chehalem Valley

Chemeketa SBDC

Helping Mid-Willamette Valley entrepreneurs start, grow, and manage their businesses with expert advising, classes, and specialized programs

Indy Idea Hub

Enabling entrepreneurs and small businesses in Polk County by providing collaborative spaces, mentorship, and resources to spark innovation and drive community growth

Latino Business

The Latino Business Alliance is a Salem-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering Latino entrepreneurs and small businesses through financial growth, community engagement, and professional development

Sacred Fire Creative

Dedicated to enhancing the Mid-Willamette Valley economy, SEDCOR builds partnerships to create jobs, foster investment, and support business success.

McMinnville Economic Development

Driving business growth in McMinnville by connecting companies with the resources, solutions, and opportunities they need to thrive in our vibrant community.

Catherine Summers

Providing premier real estate solutions across Oregon, Bella Casa is dedicated to helping businesses and families find their ideal spaces.

OpenNestq

OpenNestq is a childcare software platform that connects parents with flexible care options and helps providers streamline operations and grow their business.

Agenda At A Glance

10:00 AM – 10:15 AM

Welcome + Opening Remarks

Inspirational Invocation by Tamika L. Herbert

  • Kickoff by event organizers
  • Acknowledgment of sponsors & partners
  • Overview of the day’s schedule and opportunities
  • High-energy welcome from the emcee
Bob Dalton
Nicci Walker
Malee Ojua

10:00 AM – 10:15 AM

Resource Fair (Concurrent)

Explore tools, funding opportunities, mentorship, and support from local and regional ecosystem partners. Open throughout the day in the exhibition area.

 

Bob Dalton
Nicci Walker
Malee Ojua

10:00 AM – 10:15 AM

Success Panel #1

How Startups Are Scaling with Story, Strategy & Social
Learn how startups are building awareness, driving engagement, and converting customers using creative and authentic marketing.

 

Bob Dalton
Nicci Walker
Malee Ojua

Get inside the hustle

Limited seats available. Book yours now