OtherStartup PDX Challenge Semi-Finalists Named; Public Vote Begins

Contributed by Anne Mangan, Portland Development Commission

The Portland Development Commission has narrowed a field of 240 applicants for the Startup PDX Challenge to 16 semi-finalist companies in Portland’s search for the best new members of our growing entrepreneurial community. Up to six startup businesses will receive a $10,000 working capital grant, a full year of rent-free office space in Portland’s Produce Row, and free professional advice and services.

The Challenge selection committee will consider each semi-finalist’s application, personal interview, and the results of a public vote in determining the winners. The general public is invited to visit the Produce Row website to learn more about each semi-finalist and vote for their favorites. Public voting begins Thursday, May 2 at 8:00 a.m. and runs through midnight Thursday, May 9.

Patrick Quinton, PDC Executive Director, said, “The response to Startup PDX Challenge – the first of its kind on the West Coast – demonstrates Portland’s national emergence as a top destination to grow a business. We look forward to welcoming the winning entrepreneurs to our expanding network of experienced, innovative companies competing in the global economy.”

The 16 semi-finalists are ActivEd; Alum.ni; ClutchPlay Games; CoPatient; Edison Gauss Publishing; Ento; Measureful; Newsti.ps; OnTheGo Platforms; Safi Water Technology; Seamus Golf; Shine On Rainwear; Smart Mocha, Inc.; SpaceView and Walker Tracker, all from the Portland metro area; and Society43 of Eugene.

Challenge winners will be announced on Wednesday, May 29. The move-in date into the Produce Row space is slated for late June and will include a welcome/meet and greet event.