Launch Mid Valley Recognized in Statewide Small Business Support Award
Nov 14, 2025
LMV Recognized in Statewide Small Business Support Awards, Strengthening MEDP Partnership Through Launch Mid-Valley
Business Oregon has announced $4.5 million in grants to 28 organizations providing technical assistance to Oregon’s underserved small businesses and entrepreneurs—and among the statewide awardees is the Strategic Economic Development Corporation (SEDCOR).
This competitive biennial grant program, the Technical Assistance for Underrepresented Businesses Program, supports organizations delivering hands-on, culturally responsive services such as business planning, financial coaching, branding, technology assistance, and access to capital. With 65 applicants requesting nearly $18 million, the process was one of the most competitive to date.
A Win for the Mid-Willamette Valley—and for Regional Collaboration
SEDCOR’s award will directly bolster small business support across the Mid-Willamette Valley through a comprehensive training and coaching program designed to help entrepreneurs scale and build long-term sustainability.
A key component of this work is delivered through the Launch Mid Valley initiative—a long-standing collaboration between SEDCOR, the McMinnville Economic Development Partnership (MEDP), and regional partners dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship, startup growth, and small business resilience throughout Yamhill, Marion, and Polk Counties.
Through Launch Mid Valley, SEDCOR and MEDP coordinate resources, workshops, mentorship, and one-on-one technical assistance designed to meet business owners where they are, from early-stage concept to growth-phase scaling. The new grant funding will deepen this regional effort, expanding access to coaching and training for founders who have historically lacked equitable access to entrepreneurial support.
Strengthening Regional Economic Vitality
The awarded organizations—ranging from culturally specific chambers of commerce to rural business development nonprofits—demonstrate the statewide commitment to ensuring entrepreneurs in every part of Oregon can access the tools needed to thrive.
For the Mid-Willamette Valley, SEDCOR’s recognition affirms the strength of regional coalitions like Launch Mid Valley and highlights MEDP’s continued leadership in fostering an inclusive, innovative small-business ecosystem.
To learn more about the Technical Assistance for Underrepresented Businesses Program, visit Business Oregon’s website.
