August 14, 2025 2:50 a.m.

The South Coast Development Council has been awarded a $225,000 state grant for 2025-2027 to continue the Southwest Oregon Innovation Hub.

A release said the funding comes through Business Oregon’s Regional Innovation Hub -Launch Track program, with support from the Oregon Innovation Council.

SOIH is one of eight Innovation Hubs across Oregon receiving a combined total of $3.77 million in funding. Innovation Hubs are part of Oregon’s 10-Year Innovation Plan and play a key role in strengthening the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, connecting innovators with the resources they need to launch and grow their business.

With this funding, SOIH plans to support 50 unique companies through direct assistance, helping them with the resources, mentorship, and connections they need to grow.

SCDC serves as the lead organization, fostering collaboration among partners to ensure seamless delivery of entrepreneurial support services. Partners include the Small Business Development Centers at Umpqua Community College and Southwestern Oregon Community College, the Umpqua Economic Development, Southwestern Oregon Workforce Investment Board, the cities of Coos Bay and North Bend and several other organizations.

For more information about the Southwestern Oregon Innovation Hub, go to: https://scdcinc.org/