The Oregon Regional Accelerator and Innovation Network, or RAIN, is an initiative formed by the governor’s Oregon Regional Solutions project to establish a unique public/private partnership among the University of Oregon, Oregon State University, and the cities of Eugene, Springfield, Albany and Corvallis. As of Thursday, May 29, 2014, RAIN now operates as an independent entity and virtual non-profit organization.
The central RAIN initiative includes two nodes based in Corvallis and Eugene. Each node includes an accelerator that works with local startup companies and other development organizations to develop our region and create a network of support structures for new companies.
The Eugene Regional Accelerator is helping our area transition to a knowledge-based future where creativity, innovation, and technology drive the economy. To achieve this, we are running a local accelerator program and supporting development by connecting entrepreneurs, investors and development organizations from around our community.
In an effort to support local high-tech, food, and consumer product companies we are also working closely with the University of Oregon and other local incubator programs to provide shared laboratory and research space at low rates for new startups.
Our most prominent resources include The Eugene Regional Accelerator and our StartUp Eugene newsletter. We also host an open calendar of local startup events where community members can submit their startup events and get them syndicated to calendars around the area.
As The Eugene Regional Accelerator continues to grow, we plan to make other resources available, including shared laboratory space in the University of Oregon’s research park. In the meantime, make sure you check out our resources page for a list of resources available to local entrepreneurs.
Contact us at info@raineugene.org if you would like to support or seek support from our organization. The Eugene Regional Accelerator represents local businesses and development organizations that are committed to supporting the innovation ecosystem in our area.
We host two cohorts of startup companies each year. The cohort meets for twelve weeks. You can learn more by visiting our The Eugene Regional Accelerator page.
One of the easiest and best ways to get involved is to stop by one of the Eugene Startups meet-up sessions. Check our calendar for their next meeting.
Yes and no. Our objective is to create an environment that fosters startup companies and provides incentives for them to stay in the area, but the solutions to that problem are larger than any single organization. The Eugene Regional Accelerator is a place to have a conversation about turning the South Willamette Valley into an ideal place to start a new company.
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