Tigard is on the rise. From iconic shopping destinations that support hundreds of local jobs to innovative workforce programs preparing our residents for the future, our city is strengthening its economic foundation in ways that are intentional, inclusive, and future-focused.
At the heart of these efforts is a simple but powerful mission: build a resilient local economy, connect businesses to resources, cultivate vibrant mixed-use districts, and expand opportunity for all.
Economic Development with Intention
Our Economic Development division is committed to creating and managing opportunities that attract, grow, and retain businesses in Tigard. We help connect entrepreneurs to the tools, programs, and partnerships they need to succeed—and we are proud to support both legacy businesses and the next generation of founders.
Tools That Strengthen Our Economy
Tigard offers a wide range of programs that support business growth while enhancing neighborhood vitality and a thriving tax base:
- Tax Increment Financing (TIF): Supports streetscape, infrastructure, and tenant improvements in Downtown and the Tigard Triangle, helping dozens of businesses thrive. Tigard’s TIF Agency also funds infrastructure, builds parks and public spaces, and partners with private developers on mixed-use and affordable housing projects.
- Enterprise Zone: Offers property tax relief for companies making significant investments in equipment, facilities, and job creation.
- Vertical Housing Development Zone (VHDZ): Encourages mixed-use development by incentivizing residential units built above commercial space.
- Designated Opportunity Zones: Allow investors to redirect capital gains into long-term investments in underserved areas, with federal tax incentives that help catalyze local revitalization.
TIF District Grant Programs
Tigard’s TIF Agency manages grant programs tailored to stimulate investment and revitalize key areas in the two TIF Districts—City Center (Downtown) and the Tigard Triangle:
- City Center Building Improvement Program:
- Offers 50% matching grants (up to $25,000) to existing businesses in the City Center TIF District for exterior improvements.
- New catalyst businesses moving into vacant Downtown spaces may receive up to $75,000 for interior improvements if operating as eating and drinking establishments, and up to $25,000 for catalytic retail businesses.
- Triangle Business Opportunity Fund:
- Provides 50% matching grants for interior or exterior renovations in vacant ground-floor commercial spaces in the Tigard Triangle.
- Grants are capped at $50,000 for eating and drinking establishments and $25,000 for other businesses.
- Existing businesses can apply for up to $25,000 in matching funds for exterior improvements.
These targeted grant programs are powerful tools in shaping a city that balances growth with character—and opportunity with accessibility.
Supporting Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs
Tigard’s small businesses are the heartbeat of our local economy. That’s why we continue to expand programs designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are:
- Launch Pods at Universal Plaza and the Opportunity Café at the Tigard Public Library offer affordable workspace and business coaching for food-based entrepreneurs.
- Los Empresarios de Tigard delivers culturally relevant business training and leadership development for Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs.
- Business advising partnerships connect local entrepreneurs to free coaching, technical support, and access to capital—especially for historically underserved populations.
- Advance Tigard links residents with training and career advancement opportunities in local industries.
- The Business Spotlight Series highlights diverse businesses through interview-style storytelling and showcases their community impact.
- The New Business Welcome Program offers direct outreach to newly licensed businesses, helping them connect with city resources and build lasting community relationships.
- The Business License Fee Waiver encourages participation in business training programs by waiving the first-year license fee for qualifying entrepreneurs—reducing startup costs and supporting long-term business stability.
Looking Ahead
Tigard’s central location, strong transportation access, and growing housing and commercial developments continue to attract forward-thinking businesses and residents. But what truly sets us apart is our collaborative spirit—where city leadership, business owners, and community members work together to shape Tigard’s future.
In the coming year, we’ll finalize a new Economic Development Strategic Plan to guide our work for years to come. This includes:
- Expanding access to capital
- Strengthening business assistance programs
- Supporting innovation across all economic sectors
We will also continue to elevate local success stories, deepen our partnerships, and remove systemic barriers—so every business has the opportunity to grow and thrive in Tigard.
