It can be challenging to get a consumer product into a store and in front of potential customers. The mission of the nonprofit Built Oregon is to connect, support and accelerate consumer product businesses in Oregon, says director Mitch Daugherty. By providing a peer network of support, Built Oregon can assist product-makers in connecting with the right resources to reach their business goals. The Bridges program, in particular, provides opportunities for makers of color to start building networks with retailers, such as Market of Choice, which partners with Built Oregon to provide feedback to makers and mentor them as well. Whether it’s their branding, food safety, packaging, even sales, makers benefit from Market of Choice’s supportive feedback, ensuring that products not only get on store shelves, but stay there.
