Economic Development

The Economic Development program is responsible for coordination of economic development and infrastructure development activities and administering grant programs supporting these kinds of activities.

In order to avoid duplication of effort, the County relies on other agencies for most of our economic development activities.

The Mid-Willamette Valley Economic Development District provides access to government loans and grants for infrastructure development and business start-up and expansion.

The state agency responsible for community and economic development activities, Oregon Community and Economic Development Department.

For training and advice on business start up and development visit the site of Chemeketa Community College's Training and Economic Development Center.

The Strategic Economic Development Corporation (SEDCOR) is a private, non-profit, membership organization dedicated to enhancing and diversifying the economy of the Mid-Willamette Valley.

Tourism promotion for Polk and Marion counties is provided by Travel Salem.

For specific demographic information, visit the U.S. Census Bureau.

Other partners in economic development include: the Dallas Chamber of Commerce, the West Salem Business Association, the Monmouth-Independence Chamber of Commerce, and the West Valley Chamber of Commerce in the Willamina-Grand Ronde area.