The Housing & Economic Development Department is focused on cultivating a healthy and vibrant economic climate, including the working waterfront, as well as fostering housing development opportunities in the City of Portland. We strive to maintain and grow a diversified tax base that supports strong employment opportunities while positioning Portland to compete in the global marketplace.
Comprehensive assistance is available to businesses at every stage of development and growth, whether just starting up, expanding, or relocating to the city. Our services are designed to streamline doing business in Portland and are free and confidential. For more information on the City's loans and grants click here.
Our Housing & Community Development team supports a wide variety of projects and programs including social and neighborhood services, public facilities, and infrastructure in eligible neighborhoods and housing rehabilitation and housing development. The team works in partnership with residents, non-profit agencies, and City departments to benefit low and moderate-income residents and improve the neighborhoods in which they live. The team also administers the City's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.
New Resources Available for Renters and Landlords (7/28/2021): If you're a renter having trouble paying your rent, utilities, or other housing costs - or if you're a landlord trying to stay afloat with tenants in this situation - help may be available. State and local programs are distributing billions of dollars in rental assistance to help renters stay housed during the Pandemic.
The mission of the Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) in the Department is to foster a sense of belonging for all. OEO works to support racial, ethnic, and linguistic minorities to gain access to economic, civic, cultural, and social inclusion. For more information click here.
The mission of the Office of Creative Portland in the Department is to support the creative economy through the arts by providing essential resources, fostering partnerships, and promoting Portland's artistic talents and cultural assets. For more information, click here: