Tigard is witnessing a surge in economic activity, driven by a thoughtful and inclusive approach to development.
The city’s mission focuses on creating a resilient local economy that fosters connections between businesses and resources, cultivates vibrant mixed-use areas, and expands opportunities for all residents.
At the core of Tigard’s economic development efforts is a dedicated division committed to attracting, growing, and retaining businesses.
This division plays a crucial role in connecting entrepreneurs with essential tools, programs, and partnerships to ensure their success, supporting both established businesses and the new generation of entrepreneurs.
Tigard employs various programs aimed at bolstering business growth and enhancing community vitality, thereby strengthening the local tax base.
Among these initiatives is the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) program, which supports streetscape enhancements, infrastructure improvements, and tenant upgrade projects primarily in downtown Tigard and the Tigard Triangle, allowing numerous businesses to thrive in these areas.
The Tigard TIF Agency also invests in infrastructure, constructs parks, and develops public spaces while partnering with private developers for mixed-use and affordable housing initiatives.
The Enterprise Zone provides valuable property tax relief to firms making significant investments in equipment, facilities, and job creation, while the Vertical Housing Development Zone (VHDZ) incentivizes residential units above commercial spaces to promote mixed-use developments.
Designated Opportunity Zones further enable investors to transfer capital gains into long-term investments in underserved areas, accompanied by federal tax incentives that foster local revitalization.
Tigard’s TIF Agency administers grant programs aimed at stimulating investments and revitalizing crucial areas within the City Center and the Tigard Triangle.
For instance, the City Center Building Improvement Program offers existing businesses in the City Center TIF District 50% matching grants up to $25,000 for exterior renovations.
Moreover, new catalyst businesses entering vacant downtown locations can potentially receive grants of up to $75,000 for interior improvements focused on dining establishments or $25,000 for retail businesses.
Additionally, the Triangle Business Opportunity Fund provides 50% matching grants for renovations of both the interior and exterior of vacant ground-floor commercial spaces in the Tigard Triangle, with caps set at $50,000 for restaurants and $25,000 for other businesses.
Existing businesses seeking exterior improvements can also apply for matching funds of up to $25,000.
These targeted grant initiatives serve as powerful tools for ensuring that the city’s growth aligns with its character while fostering accessibility and opportunity.
Small businesses remain the heartbeat of Tigard’s economy, which is why the city continues to expand programs aimed at supporting entrepreneurs.
Launch Pods at Universal Plaza and the Opportunity Café at the Tigard Public Library provide affordable workspace and coaching for food-based entrepreneurs.
“Los Empresarios de Tigard” delivers culturally relevant business training and leadership development specifically tailored for Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs.
Business advising partnerships connect local entrepreneurs with free coaching, technical support, and access to capital—particularly aimed at historically underserved communities.
The Advance Tigard initiative links local residents with training and career advancement opportunities in key local industries.
The Business Spotlight Series highlights diverse local businesses through storytelling, showcasing their impact on the community.
Notably, the New Business Welcome Program proactively reaches out to newly licensed businesses to help them connect with available resources and foster lasting community relationships.
Further supporting aspiring entrepreneurs, the Business License Fee Waiver waives the first-year license fee for those qualifying for training programs, effectively reducing startup costs and contributing to long-term business stability.
Tigard’s central location, excellent transportation access, and ongoing developments in housing and commerce continue to draw progressive businesses and residents.
What truly distinguishes Tigard is its collaborative spirit, where city administration, business owners, and community members coalesce to shape the city’s future.
In the upcoming year, Tigard plans to finalize a new Economic Development Strategic Plan that will direct initiatives for years ahead.
The focus areas will include expanding capital access, fortifying business assistance programs, and nurturing innovation across all economic sectors.
Continued efforts to celebrate local successes, deepen partnerships, and eliminate systemic barriers will ensure every business has the opportunity to flourish in Tigard.
image source from：tigardlife
