Roadmap to Prosperity

Strategic Goals for Oregon’s Economy

Accelerate Oregon's Economic Growth

Achieve a sustained state Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate – meaning an increase in the state’s economic output – that outpaces the national average. A real-world example of this would be a business expanding its operations, e.g., manufacturing more products, hiring additional workers to meet increased demand, and ultimately generating more revenue from higher sales. This goal reflects Oregon’s commitment to building a dynamic, resilient, and inclusive economy, one that drives innovation, supports high-quality living-wage jobs, and delivers long-term prosperity for all Oregonians.

Goal:

Grow Oregon’s GDP in alignment with our historical pattern of outpacing national activity. To facilitate this outcome, the roadmap establishes a near-term target of growing GDP from 1.7 to 2.2 which could increase general fund resources by more than $4 billion through the 2029-31 biennium.

More living wage jobs, now

Catalyze job growth by investing in high-opportunity sectors, expanding workforce development programs, strengthening regional economic ecosystems, and leveraging public-private partnerships. A real-world example of this kind of strategy is a coordinated, two-pronged approach. First, a post-secondary education institution partners with local businesses and the state to create a new training or certificate program tailored to emerging industry needs. Second, once the program is in place, employers launch a hiring process for newly created positions that specifically require the training, ensuring a direct pipeline from education to employment. This approach not only addresses current labor market demands but also prepares Oregon’s workforce for the jobs of the future, equipping Oregonians with the skills and credentials needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy. Oregon will foster the conditions necessary to generate meaningful employment across all communities – urban, rural, and underserved.

Goal:

Move from #23 in the CNBC Workforce Rank into the top 10 states in the country. America’s Top States for Business Workforce category measures the availability, quality, and productivity of the state’s labor pool. It evaluates several metrics, including worker availability/shortages, education levels, worker training and development, net migration, labor force participation rate, productivity, and health.

Retain and Grow Oregon Businesses

Set up Oregon businesses to thrive by expanding access to capital, technical assistance, and critical infrastructure. A real-world example of this is establishing a pool of public funds that businesses can apply for, paired with technical assistance and accelerated permitting. This support allows companies to expand their operations here at home – online through streamlined approvals and on the ground through growth that spans city blocks or even acres. Through targeted support and strategic investment, the state will help to empower businesses to scale, innovate, and deepen their roots in Oregon’s economy.

Goal:

Move from #39 in the CNBC Top States for Business Overall Rank into the top 10 states in the country. America’s Top States for Business is an annual, data-driven analysis that ranks all states on the factors that matter most to companies when making site selection decisions. The study is designed to identify which states are best at creating a competitive and prosperous environment for business and economic growth.