SBIR Series 2/4 Review prerequisites, planning, writing style, and aligning applications with priorities. In this part, we will review prerequisites, high level planning, the importance of writing style, aligning an application with division priorities, engaging reviewers, application structure, the importance of advisory committees and academic collaborators, and a detailed approach to creating the Summary and […]

There are many questions looming about the long-term implications of the COVID chapter on a company’s culture, which Peter Drucker noted, “eats strategy for breakfast.” How does working from home impact productivity, and does that affect everyone equally? Who is allowed back in the office, and what does that say about an organization’s culture? Can […]

The Oregon Bio Annual Conference is going digital in 2020 – Dates are confirmed! Save the Date: We’ll see you Nov 17, 18 and 19 from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Planning is underway for three days of engaging panel discussions, presentations and fun!  And, yes our research and company pitches will be back (see […]

SBIR Series 3/4 Research strategies, budgeting, preliminary data, and commercialization.  In this part, we will review the Research Strategy sections: Significance, Innovation and Approach. Budgeting will be discussed in detail. We will also review the importance of advisory committees, academic collaborators and the value of Preliminary Data. We will wrap up with the structure and […]

Yes! The show will go on. We are throwing out the standard script though, and embracing 2020's mandate to go completely outside the box - new award categories, new interactive program, new ways to celebrate the breadth and uniqueness of Oregon's entrepreneurial community. Much like school this fall, there are still loads of details to sort out, […]

Get the inside story on how to apply for SBIR-STTR grant funding.  You’ll get valuable lessons learned from 3 Oregon entrepreneurs who have received SBIR-STTR funding.  Click here for more information and to register.

SBIR Series 4/4 Understand your target audience and see what reviewers look for in your application. Understanding the review process will enable you to: better understand your target audience, inform your grant creation process and interpret and respond to Summary Statements. We will also discuss what reviewers especially look for in your grant application. Event […]

Finance Community This community works to provide education and guidance to the finance professionals of today's technology companies through the following: Educational programs Collaborative events Building professional networks Identifying trends and areas of need where TAO can provide support to our member companies Event Overview M& A Trends and Best Practices - Navigating the New […]

We are excited to announce that TechfestNW and PitchfestNW will be transitioning online! Join us December 2-4, 2020 for a virtual program to hear from renowned speakers and watch startup companies pitch their concepts to a curated panel of venture capitalists and technology experts and connect with your peers in the industry. More details and […]

Grow. Connect. Expand. Early Stage Investor Conference (ESIC) is an annual flagship event designed to inspire and advance innovation across industries. Each year, we bring together an ecosystem of entrepreneurs in emerging technology, established industry-leaders, researchers from top universities, and individual and corporate investors looking for the next big idea. Building off our 2019 success […]

Join us for the 2020 KICDC STARTUP PITCH DAY event–a live, interactive virtual pitch event for 10 successful Korean startups to showcase their disruptive products and solutions on December 8, 2020 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, PST. The rise of Asia is a global phenomenon, and Korea has become one of the innovation powerhouses in […]

It's been six months since the wave of tech industry support for Black Lives Matter and pledges to do better. Has anything really changed? Join Ciara Pressler, founder of Pregame, for a panel discussion on how companies and individual professionals can and should implement their values in business, including diversity & equity and beyond. What […]

You have a game-changing idea... but do you have a game plan? Ideas are easy, but execution is what makes for a strong, sustainable business. Join Ciara Pressler, founder and head coach at Pregame, for an interactive workshop and conversation about what it takes to go from concept to creation: - The difference between a […]

Best practices for product development that will help you scale to commercialization. Getting a product from the lab bench-top to the market can be a risky, complex process. As product developers, we've learned a lot about building and scaling products successfully. In this webinar, you'll learn our best practices for product development that will help […]

LEX (Leadership Exchange) Leadership Exchanges, or LEX, are small groups where c-suite and senior technology leaders can openly and safely discuss critical issues with others WHAT TO EXPECT You will receive recorded remarks from Governor Brown that will set the tone for our evening's discussion along with a little thank you for joining us in […]

Does it seem odd to celebrate 2020? Maybe. It's been a tough year. But it's also been a year of unbelievable growth and engagement for the PDXWIT community and Portland’s technology industry as a whole. We are looking forward to coming together with our host AT&T to look back on a very strange year. The […]

E-commerce! E-blasts! E-gads! How You Can Go Digital with Your Marketing without Going Crazy! If there was something that 82% of your customers were eager to get and it had a low cost to you, would you do it? More than likely…YES! That something is an e-Blast, an e-mailed newsletter from you to your customers […]

SBIR/STTR overview, drafting a competitive application, & additional resources. Join the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute on Aging (NIA) Office of Small Business Research (OSBR), Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio), and New Jersey Biotech (BioNJ) on Thursday, December 17, at 12:30 p.m. ET for a webinar on small business funding opportunities to advance your […]

Join bioscience peers in raising a glass and celebrating the highlights of this year. Prepare one of our specialty drink recipes in advance and grab a fun holiday hat or ugly sweater to participate in the merry making.   Oregon Bio Executive Director, Liisa Bozinovic kicks off the event at 4 p.m. and will introduce […]

Join PDXWIT and Katrina Johnson for an interactive workshop about Data Science. This two-day interactive presentation will provide an introduction to data science, with a special focus on understanding the following concepts: - Big data - Algorithms - Supervised and unsupervised machine learning - Artificial intelligence Key takeaways will also include information on how to […]

Join PDXWIT and Katrina Johnson for an interactive workshop about Data Science. This two-day interactive presentation will provide an introduction to data science, with a special focus on understanding the following concepts: - Big data - Algorithms - Supervised and unsupervised machine learning - Artificial intelligence Key takeaways will also include information on how to […]

The health care system is complicated. The 5 Points of Health Care™ Conference works to simplify this complicated system for innovators looking to make change. Join us for a real and upfront conversation between the five distinct segments: Patient, Payers, Providers, Policymakers and Purchasers. Topics will include the pandemic, systemic racism and national health care reform. Can't […]

ADVOCACY TAO bridges industry and government to drive policies that ensure growth and success for our region's tech industry As the voice of the Oregon & SW Washington tech industry, we work with federal, state and local officials to promote policies that cultivate a strong tech community, in addition to ensuring opportunities for statewide economic […]

Social Media can have a huge impact not only on your business but your brand. This workshop gives a different perspective to our Basic Social Media workshop. Rest-assured your customers are talking to your brand on social media.But, are you listening? Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube offer an opportunity […]

Discover a variety of tactics you can implement immediately to build your Google authority and be more competitive in search results for your business category. SEO is based on over 200 factors that Google considers to determine your rank position. We’ll focus on those factors most highly weighted by Google and those which we can […]

Interactive event about the lifecycle stages of medical devices and IVD. This interactive event will provide an overview of the respective stages of the Lifecycle of a Medical Device and IVD, from the early patent stages through development, regulatory, clinical and commercial aspects, to exit strategies. Event Speaker Jaap Laufer Medical Director, Emergo Group Dr. […]

It’s a new year, so let's try a new thing! Join us for a special edition Virtual Happy (Lunch) Hour hosted by Kiva on January 20th. The theme for this event is “The Importance of Research,” and we will hear from lightning speakers Laure Cast and Rihana Mungin about their research projects! We will also […]

Please join the Portland State Business Accelerator and Christine Slattery, Portland-based attorney, trainer and workplace investigator, for a training session on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. In this training, Christine will discuss how to craft a meaningful value statement for your company, why this is important, and how to bring this statement to life. Additionally, the need of having […]

Founder Experiences: Hope for the Future featuring Dr. Brian Cohn, Ph.D, Chief Scientist, Kaspect. Founder Experiences: Hope for the Future  What we often forget is that the most successful entrepreneurs in the world all started out the same way. They didn’t know what the first step was or what they had to do in the […]

DATA PRIVACY IN 2021 TAO invites you to join us for a panel discussion moderated by Leila Javanshir, certified information privacy expert professional and associate of Miller, Nash, Graham & Dunn on Thursday, January 28th at 9:00 AM. Joined by a panel of cybersecurity experts from across the state of Oregon, Leila will lead a discussion on a variety […]

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN It may seem counter intuitive for a business owner to develop an exit strategy, but it's very important to consider a plan even if you do not intend to sell your company immediately. By having a well-defined exit plan, you will also have a clear goal, and significant influence on your […]

TARGET AUDIENCE startups, entrepreneurs   DESCRIPTION How to build your financial model(s) to project performance, understand key metrics and communicate your growth strategy to investors. Discussion will address the right way to model out SaaS, product and hybrid revenue streams to identify risks/opportunities and smooth out the due diligence process. Kathleen is a seasoned investment […]

Are you a small business owner or entrepreneur interested in learning about trademarks and how to apply for a federal registration? If so, this event is a must-attend. In this first module of our eight-part virtual Trademark Basics Boot Camp, we’ll focus on trademark protection in the United States. The event is free, but space […]

Interactive event about the lifecycle stages of medical devices and IVD. This interactive event will provide an overview of the respective stages of the Lifecycle of a Medical Device and IVD, from the early patent stages through development, regulatory, clinical and commercial aspects, to exit strategies. Event Speaker: Jaap Laufer Medical Director, Emergo Group Dr. […]

A discussion on research, new strains, testing, neurological challenges and vaccines.   We are living in the time of COVID-19, a disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). For almost a year, we’ve witnessed the relentless spread of the disease as it affected young and old around the world. Our health, […]

TARGET AUDIENCE startups, entrepreneurs   DESCRIPTION  Leen Kawas, Ph.D., has served as Athira Pharma’s Chief Executive Officer and as a member of our board of directors since January 2014. Previously, Dr. Kawas served as our vice president. Dr. Kawas serves on multiple boards, including the Washington Governor’s Life Science Advisory Board, Scientific Review Board for […]

Are you a small business owner or entrepreneur interested in learning about trademarks and how to apply for a federal registration? If so, this event is a must-attend. In this second module of our eight-part virtual Trademark Basics Boot Camp, we'll focus on important principles related to trademark searching and effective use of the USPTO’s Trademark […]

Explore databases such as NIH RePorter, SBIR.gov, GRANTS.gov, and beta.SAM When growing your technology business, you need to understand who your customers are, what they want, and who else might be creating similar technology solutions to meet those customer needs. While some of the best methods of learning this involve talking with people, and attending […]

Power Pairing An intimate, online workshop curated for C-Suite, VP and Director-level executive women from tech companies, and those who aspire to senior leadership. We also welcome and encourage executive-level leaders to register women they have mentored or identified as emerging leaders looking to take that next step in their career. WHAT TO EXPECT The […]

Early entrepreneurs, especially tech startups, often struggle with thinking through all the functional aspects of a well-run business, such as R&D, Supply Chain/Procurement, Manufacturing, Marketing and Sales, Human Resources, Accounting, etc. For small startups with just a few employees, these functions still need to be managed, even if it means one person manages wears several "hats." Join […]

I AM TECH OREGON In 2020 TAO began highlighting our members through a "Meet Our Members" series. Many of our featured guests were CEOs or members of the TAO Board of Directors. As we expand on this idea in 2021, we are excited to highlight the voices of technologists who may not be in the historic majority. I Am Tech Oregon will […]

TARGET AUDIENCE startups, entrepreneurs   DESCRIPTION  Venture Capital is evolving. Determining the volume, timing, and type of capital your company will need to succeed is critical to your success as a founder. This session reviews the various types of early stage technology company funding available and how each serves different business models and end-game goals […]

Are you a small business owner or entrepreneur interested in learning about trademarks and how to apply for a federal registration? If so, this event is a must-attend. In this third module of our eight-part virtual Trademark Basics Boot Camp, we’ll focus on the requirements for an initial trademark application. Knowing what is needed up […]

Join us for a special edition Virtual Happy Hour hosted by Cambia Health Solutions and centered on PDXWIT’s theme for the month of February: Black Futures && Black History. We will have our usual Recruiter Roll Call and Virtual Job Seekers Lounge, but we will also be introduced to some rad organizations in Portland directly […]

The City of Sherwood Economic Development Office and the Sherwood Chamber of Commerce are partnering with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to present a Cash Flow Training Program.  This is a no cost educational program open to all businesses in Sherwood.  This is not just for businesses in Sherwood but all business in Greater […]

LEADER LAUNCHPAD The TAO Leader Launchpad Community aims to provide an inclusive and empowering group of peers and mentors where the community will offer networking, mentorship, and professional development opportunities focused on helping TAO Members navigate the challenges of ascending the professional ladder into leadership positions. Whether you are just beginning your career, looking to […]

Are you a small business owner or entrepreneur interested in learning about trademarks and how to apply for a federal registration? If so, this event is a must-attend. In this fourth module of our eight-part virtual Trademark Basics Boot Camp, we’ll focus on the USPTO’s Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS), including a live demonstration of a […]

Learn about the key tenets of Steward Ownership and how these principles have the capacity to create a paradigm shift. About this Event Please join the Portland State Business Accelerator and Sarah Joannides, Managing Director, of Alternative Ownership Advisors. Sarah is a champion for change and using business as a force for good. Prior to joining AOA, Sarah spent […]

You are invited to join us at AWS Innovate – AI/ML Edition on February 24, 2021. With 30+ sessions led by AWS experts, get inspired and learn how you can use machine learning to accelerate innovation, streamline operations, deliver better insights, and unlock new possibilities. Overview Welcome to AWS Innovate Online Conference - AI & Machine […]

Join us on February 24th as Allison Hartsoe, Founder and CEO of Ambition Data will tell her entrepreneurial story which started in Silicon Valley, and how she ended up in the Pacific Northwest. Recently recognized as one of "The 100 Most Powerful Women in Technology", Allison will share stories about: Being the only women in the boardroom How […]

Center for Experimental Therapeutics Seminar Series The Center for Experimental Therapeutics unites cutting-edge technologies with a multidisciplinary group of preclinical and clinical investigators to further drug discovery and development. Monthly seminars aim to encourage collaboration, advance innovation efforts and translate scientific discoveries into effective therapies for human diseases. Presented by Brian Druker, M.D. Director, Knight […]

Oregon Bio’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee invites you to join the discussion at our Black History Month Book Club. Read a book or two and take part in important conversations regarding racism in Oregon, health disparities and increasing minority participation in STEM study and careers. Pick a title from the list below to read by Feb. […]

Public speaking is one of the most useful tools to have in your arsenal in both your professional and personal life. Being able to speak to people in small or large groups can be daunting, and learning how to gain confidence will make the experience more enjoyable. Join PDXWIT speaker Sarah Spieglman as she explores […]

Are you a small business owner or entrepreneur interested in learning about trademarks and how to apply for a federal registration? If so, this event is a must-attend. In this fifth module of our eight-part virtual Trademark Basics Boot Camp, we’ll focus on responding to office actions, the official letters that USPTO examining attorneys issue […]

Have an idea for an innovative technology but don’t know where to start? BIP Corp is a 5-week experiential course designed to help you and your team assess and validate your biomedical technology. Gain the basic knowledge and tools to initiate innovation and commercialization of your technology, and develop a competitive business case to secure […]

WHAT IS IMPACT? Technology Association of Oregon's 2021 IMPACT presents a series of conversations and online content supporting our efforts to engage with the community on the themes of Economic Competitiveness, Digital Transformation + Innovation, and Talent + Culture. On Friday, March 5th, join us for three interactive sessions focused on Economic Competitiveness featuring thought […]

Are you a small business owner or entrepreneur interested in learning about trademarks and how to apply for a federal registration? If so, this event is a must-attend. In this sixth module of our eight-part virtual Trademark Basics Boot Camp, we’ll focus on the overall trademark registration process, from filing to registration. Understanding the process […]

What does returning to the workplace look like going forward — whether that’s in an office, a restaurant, or a factory floor? With the many changes brought on by COVID-19, businesses are adapting to our new environment.  Together, Technology Association of Oregon and Onward Eugene invite you to join us on March 9th for a […]

So you just launched a company or organization, you have some funding, and you're eager to get started ... but wait! How do you manage your books? How exactly do you set up payroll for your employees? Oh, and then there are taxes -- how exactly does that work? When do you need a bookkeeper […]

Are you a digital health, med-tech, or life science entrepreneur interested in pursuing investor funding? If so, please join us on Wednesday, March 10 from 4 to 6 PM Pacific for a panel discussion with six health-focused investors, followed by an engaging online networking session.  Come learn what today’s active investors are looking for, and […]

Pitch Club is an event where entrepreneurs learn the criteria and methods used by real investors to evaluate their venture as a potential investment. This is done by recreating a typical investor meeting where a few companies pitch and receive feedback from TiE Oregon Charter Members. These meetings follow the same basic agenda of an […]

Learn the strategies on how to file a patent application. This talk will consist of two segments. The first segment will be directed to what you need to include in a patent application to make a valuable patent application filing. The second segment will be directed to strategy considerations on timing your patent application filing(s), […]

A VIRTUAL HAPPY HOUR OF DISCOVERY On March 11, 2021, we will meet our friends and supporters online for our annual fundraiser to celebrate our accomplishments over the past year.  Saturday Academy encourages students to follow their curiosity. Serving grades 2-12 in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) since 1983, we have paved the way for […]

Are you a small business owner or entrepreneur interested in learning about trademarks and how to apply for a federal registration? If so, this event is a must-attend. In this seventh module of our eight-part virtual Trademark Basics Boot Camp, we’ll focus on what happens after registration, including mandatory filings to keep your registration alive. […]

We are excited to have Tory Campbell, Peter Hulseman, and Daniel Rittatore share insights on the local economy and its impact on entrepreneurship. Peter will share economic data at the federal, state and county level, while Tory and Daniel will discuss the potential impact the economy will have on the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Topics will Include: Economic Data for Washington, […]

Are you a small business owner or entrepreneur interested in learning about trademarks and how to apply for a federal registration? If so, this event is a must-attend. In this final module of our eight-part virtual Trademark Basics Boot Camp, we’ll provide a unique opportunity for you to “meet the trademark experts.” Come prepared with […]

Please join the Portland State Business Accelerator and Shayna Liberman, Technology Strategist at Nike and a startup advisor. Early stage startups have to be scrappy, and judicious in their marketing investments. How do founders know where to invest? How to think about their marketing goals? In this virtual Lunch and Learn, Shayna will cover marketing strategy specific […]

Join Terri Butler, Chandana Haque and Aditi Martin as they discuss how incubators and accelerators are critical to advance innovation. About this Event Join featured guest speakers as they discuss the role of co-working hubs, incubators and accelerators in catalyzing health care innovation. This roundtable will be hosted by: Terri Butler, PhD, Associate Director of […]

Industry experts and local company leaders will share Greater Portland's business advantages for bioscience firms. About this Event Our region has all the ingredients for a robust bioscience technology sector: Established firms like Genentech, game-changing newcomers like AbSci and Twist Bioscience, and powerhouse research universities like Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). Register today to […]

TAO Professional Development programming supports tech professionals by helping them to make connections, develop expertise, share best-practices, and amplify their voices as members of the tech industry. A study of 200 companies authored by John Kotter and James Heskett in “Corporate Culture and Performance” showed that over an 11-year period, stakeholder-balanced companies had four times […]