Nestled in the Willamette Valley between the breathtaking scenery of the Cascade Mountain sand Oregon Coast Range, the City of Eugene prides itself on being one of the most livable cities in the United States. Eugene’s natural beauty, cultural attractions and other desirable attributes continue to attract people and businesses to the area.
Home to more than 150,000 people, Eugene is Oregon’s second largest city. It covers approximately 41.5 square miles. The Willamette River runs through the heart of the city and joined by the McKenzie River to the north of town.
Eugene’s economy is supported by a number of industries and by businesses of all sizes. At the heart of the Eugene economy are the homegrown small- and medium-sized businesses. Most of Eugene’s businesses employ fewer than 20 workers. Including sole proprietorships and limited partnerships, there are more than 10,000 businesses in and around Eugene. Manufacturing, retail trade and healthcare and social assistance make up nearly 40% of total employment in Lane County. Since it is home to the University of Oregon and a Federal courthouse, government employment helps add stability to Lane County’s economy.
Yet don’t take our word for it, check out what others are saying about the Business Climate in Eugene/Springfield:
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In 2010 Entrepreneur Magazine named Eugene the top town in the country for “Green Scenes: Where capitalism meets eco-consciousness.” In its August issue, Entrepreneur Magazine ranked the top cities in 10 categories important to entrepreneurs, including physical environment and creativity.
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U.S. News Media Group’s 2011 America's Best Colleges rankings of 1,400 schools. The UO ranks 111 in the "Best National Universities" list of top tier institutions. In 2010, UO ranked 115 in the category. In addition, the UO Lundquist College of Business ranked 42 in the top 50 "Best Business Programs" list.
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The University of Oregon has continued its climb among colleges and universities ranked highest for “innovation yield” – the rate at which they turn research into revenue. The UO moved up to No. 16 nationally – its highest ever – for the 2010 fiscal year, which is the most recent period reported in an annual nationwide survey according to data published by the Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM).
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Oregon ranked among top ten in the country in Forbes.com’s 2011 list of Best States for Business. The Forbes.com ranking is based on data collected in six categories: costs, labor supply, regulatory environment, current economic climate, growth prospects and quality of life.
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Locally-owned businesses are at the heart of the American economy. They create jobs, boost local economies and add vibrancy to nearby communities. In 2011 The Washington Post ranked Eugene as the 16th best city in the country for independent businesses.
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In 2011 Livability.com ranked Downtown Eugene as among the top 10 downtown’s in the country for mid-sized cities.