Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a Port of Portland supplier/contractor? The first step is to register your business with the Port of Portland. Please visit the Business Opportunities section of the Port's Web site.
What determines a small business? The Port defines small business as a business that is certified as an emerging small business by the State of Oregon. To view certification requirements or a list of certified small business, visit the OMWESB Web site.
What is certification? Certification is a process by which a business is, or becomes certified as: minority-owned (MBE) women-owned (WBE) socially or economically disadvantaged (DBE) emerging (ESB) For additional information about certification, go to the following Web sites: Oregon Office of Minority, Women and Emerging Small Business (OMWESB) Women's Business Enterprise Council (WBENC) Northwest Minority Business Council (NMBC)
Must a business be certified to be a supplier/contractor for the Port of Portland? No, however the Port does encourage any business that is qualified for certification to complete the certification process. While certification does not generate business for a company, it can be a useful tool when marketing to certain customers.
Who is the Port of Portland's small business development contact? Rhonnda Edmiston Small Business Development Program Manager Port of Portland 121 NW Everett Portland, OR 97209 Phone: 503.944.7587 Fax: 503.944.7597
What are other small business resources in Portland? Astra Women's Business Alliance Oregon Association of Minority Entrepreneurs Governor's Small Business Advocacy Office Minority Business Opportunity Committee Small Business Administration Oregon African American Chamber of Commerce Oregon Native American Chamber of Commerce Metropolitan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Philippine American Chamber of Commerce Small Business Development Center Portland Business Alliance