Despite the countless challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, Greater Portland Inc. managed to create new jobs and drive tangible growth for the Greater Portland region. GMI POST sat down with GPI President and CEO Monique Claiborne as she shared the factors that paved the way for new investments and economic opportunities in Greater Portland.
“Even during the two-year global shutdown, we attracted over 1,200 jobs, which have resulted in $65 million in direct income and about $250 million in sales and output for the region,” said Claiborne.
According to the GPI chief executive, the Greater Portland region’s thriving business environment is driven by innovation, collaboration, and other unique advantages of doing business in the area. These factors include Greater Portland’s prime West Coast location, its top-ranked infrastructure that can easily connect companies to the global market, world-class industrial properties, and the region’s highly-educated workforce.
Claiborne said as of 2022, 55% of the region’s population had a bachelor's degree, which was well above the national average of 34.98%.
“We have a strategic plan that will make Greater Portland the destination of choice for leading global brands. From offering confidential, no-cost services for companies that are considering the region to connecting businesses that are already here in the region, we are committed to ensuring the success of companies, across sectors, in Greater Portland,” said Claiborne.
The GPI President and CEO highlighted two sectors that were driving the most growth in the region: its computer, electronics, and semiconductor sector; and its apparel and outdoor retail and gear industry. Some of the global computer and semiconductor brands with headquarters in Greater Portland include Intel, Lam Research, HP, Tektronix, HP, and Siemens. Meanwhile, global apparel & outdoor brands such as Adidas North America, Nike, and Columbia Sportswear Company are also in the region.
Asked for a message to companies interested in doing business in Greater Portland, Claiborne said, “Your money will go further in Greater Portland. GPI is here to assist you with anything you might need, from making introductions to other businesses to providing workforce data and securing tax abatements, grants, and incentives. We are here to help move your business forward.”