OEN NewsOEN Seeking Entrepreneurs in Southern Oregon To Participate in Pilot Project
June 23, 2014, Portland, Ore. — The Oregon Entrepreneurs Network (OEN), is bringing its expertise, programs and services to Coos, Curry, and Douglas counties, in efforts to assist entrepreneurs and small businesses throughout southern Oregon. The entry of OEN’s services to the tri-county region is made possible by a pilot project grant from Business Oregon, the state’s economic development agency.
The initial pilot program will provide research data on regional innovators, entrepreneurs, and start-up companies. More importantly, the pilot project seeks to identify the primary barriers that may be inhibiting new product development and job growth. Gathered data could ultimately assist in the development of future state and regional programs to address identified barriers, and to support a stronger entrepreneurial climate in Southern Oregon.
OEN has been assisting Oregon’s entrepreneurs and start-up businesses since 1991, advocating, educating, providing networking opportunities and access to capital for inventors, entrepreneurs and start-up companies throughout the state. Experienced volunteers provide much of the organization’s hands-on assistance to those interested starting businesses.
Sandy Geiser-Messerle, Coos Bay, is OEN’s Regional Catalyst Manager in the tri-county region. Geiser-Messerle brings over 20 years in business and economic development to the pilot project, along with extensive experience in marketing, community building and fund development.
“Sandy’s economic development strategies, experience in grassroots organizing, and strong passion for improving the climate for emerging, growth-oriented companies in Southern Oregon combine to make her ideal for this pilot project,” said Linda Weston, OEN President & Executive Director. “We’re happy to have her on board.”
About Oregon Entrepreneurs Network
Founded in 1991, the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to providing opportunities for Oregon entrepreneurs and improving the business climate for emerging, growth-oriented companies statewide. The organization has members throughout Oregon and southwest Washington. For more information about the OEN, visit oen.org.
For Additional Information, Contact:
Sandy Geiser-Messerle
Regional Catalyst Manager, OEN
541-808-5376
sandym@oen.org
