PCC emphasizes shared values, inclusivity and support for small businesses
Photos and story by James Hill
One of the central themes of Portland Community College’s Strategic Plan is a commitment to “Shared Values,” emphasizing support for people, connectedness and empowerment. Through a human-centered approach, PCC seeks to build a vibrant college community where everyone feels valued.
This effort is grounded in cultivating a sense of belonging and care, achieved through shared governance, transparent decision-making and professional development. PCC’s dedication to these values extends beyond its campus, enriching the wider Portland community, especially through its support of small and minority-owned businesses.
For over 45 years, the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at PCC has been a vital resource for local entrepreneurs from all backgrounds, especially in the Portland metro area. The center has empowered thousands of business owners, helping them grow and sustain their ventures. The SBDC’s comprehensive support system combines personalized one-on-one, confidential business advising with training programs led by seasoned business experts, ensuring that entrepreneurs have the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing market.
Getting Your Recipe to Market
Another way the SBDC supports entrepreneurs is its 12-week, intensive class focused on recipe development. GYRM helps local food professionals take their ideas to commercial-ready food products. With partners OSU Food Innovation Center and New Seasons Market, PCC takes students step-by-step to produce, promote and sell their new products.
One of the SBDC’s standout offerings is its no-cost “Intro to SBDC” orientation, which provides local entrepreneurs with educational resources and a structured plan of action tailored to their specific business needs. This program serves as a launching pad for aspiring business owners to develop a clear strategy in finding support for their entrepreneurial journey.
A testament to the success of PCC’s SBDC is the story of a new LGBTQ+-owned small business. Nathan Wade Carter owns How Convenient, which is a unique convenience store in East Portland. Carter, who dreamt of leaving the food service industry to become his own boss, found guidance and support through the PCC SBDC’s Business Builders training program. With personalized advising, he turned his dream into a reality, officially opening his doors on Oct. 2.
How Convenient is not just a store—it’s a community hub where locals can discover everything from classic snacks to artistic greeting cards. Carter emphasizes the value of leveraging the SBDC’s resources, advising other entrepreneurs to, “Use the PCC SBDC as a resource and launch pad for exploration, and ask lots of questions. Trust your gut as to what’s right for you, your business, and your vision.”
You can read more about Carter and his new business on the SBDC webpage.
Beyond individual success stories, the SBDC offers resources for entrepreneurs at every stage, from turning homemade recipes into commercial-ready products (see side bar) to navigating the complexities of exporting and importing.
PCC’s dedication to shared values, inclusivity and community support is evident in every facet of its operations, from small business development to fostering a sense of belonging on campus. As a member of Oregon Pride in Business (ORPIB) since 2023, PCC’s ongoing efforts reflect a long-standing commitment to uplifting the LGBTQ+ community and supporting small businesses.
For more information about PCC’s Small Business Development Center, call (971) 722-5080 or email sbdc@pcc.edu. Check out the center’s entire portfolio of classes and services.
SBDC Stories of Success
PCC Alum Cooks Up Tasty Cuisine
Marquise Cross enrolled in business classes to skill-up as a restaurateur and now celebrates the success of his Norma Jean’s Soul Cuisine. During the pandemic, Cross launched Gourmet Brothers Catering that included food carts before opening of his restaurant in 2023. But Norma Jean’s is dedicated to more than just great food; it’s committed to the people.
A Brand That Is Shifting Culture
Alum David Jefferson’s Stackin Kickz is a streetwear brand in Northeast Portland that is inspiring the community. As part of his brand, he engages in community work with a mentorship program called “Definition of Success.” Through this program, he teaches classes on individuality, self-awareness, and creating a life of success on one’s own terms.
Serving Up The Accolades
PCC’s small business advisers helped Migration Brewing grow its operations and win the Small Business Person of the Year Award. The company’s journey is intricately tied to PCC’s SBDC, which helps thousands of business owners in Portland with one-on-one business advising and training programs taught by business experts.
Black-Owned Businesses Turn To PCC Alum
Denise Tupper coaches Black-owned businesses, helping them increase revenues and build more vibrant communities and jobs. Since 2019, Tupper has worked for Micro Enterprise Services of Oregon in Northeast Portland, supporting over 130 small businesses and entrepreneurs.
About James Hill
James G. Hill, an award-winning journalist and public relations writer, is the Director of Public Relations at Portland Community College. A graduate of Portland State University, James has worked as a section editor for the Newberg Graphic... more »