Willamette Valley Innovation Hub - Sacred Fire Creative

Category: Willamette Valley Innovation Hub

Reimagining Exit Planning: Hannah Sandmeyer Guides Entrepreneurs Toward the Next Stage of Their Journey

At some point in their professional journey, entrepreneurs will realize one thing – that it’s time to exit their business. The reason can be anything – retirement, a desire to return to the corporate world, or simply to start a new and more exciting chapter to their story.

The question is, how can they approach exiting their business as painlessly as possible?

That’s a question that Hannah Sandmeyer provides answers to through her work as the founder and CEO of Up & Over Advisors. She and her team help business owners secure their legacy as they enter the next stage of their entrepreneurial journey.

The Vision: People, Planet, and Profits

Hannah built Up & Over Advisors around what she calls the triple-bottom-line approach: people, planet, and profits. Her commitment is clear: people come first, and while profit is surely a desired outcome, social responsibility and sustainability are never sacrificed in its pursuit.

Among Hannah’s goals is to connect businesses with acquisition opportunities that share their values and vision for positive impact. For entrepreneurs planning their exit strategies, this means exploring the possibility of merging their company with another whose values and mission match theirs.

By focusing on mission-driven sourcing for mergers and acquisitions, Hannah and her team provide customized growth and exit strategies that align with their clients’ ethical commitments.

A Journey Rooted in Impact

Hannah’s career is built on a foundation of service and global understanding. Her professional journey began as an HIV/AIDS volunteer with the US Peace Corps in Mokubilo, Botswana. This transformative experience instilled a deep empathy and a desire in her to create meaningful change.

Her outlook was further enriched by time spent in Copenhagen in Denmark and Siena in Italy, where she gained valuable insights into diverse cultures and business practices. With nearly 20 years of expertise in M&A sourcing, enterprise sales, and leadership, Hannah has closed over $400 million in revenue while championing integrity and empathy in every deal.

A Business for Good

Hannah’s experiences have led her to believe that businesses can be a significant force for good. It’s a principle that she and her team practice at Up & Over Advisors, setting the company apart with its unwavering commitment to mission-driven partnerships.

Aside from offering services designed to foster meaningful and sustainable growth, Up & Over Advisors dedicates 5% of proceeds from successful transactions to funding early-stage impact entrepreneurs. Through this endeavor, Hannah contributes to regenerating the business ecosystem and empowering a new generation of changemakers.

As a woman- and LGBTQ-owned business, the company is deeply committed to advancing racial justice, equity, and inclusivity. It honors community and collaboration and is on track to becoming a certified B Corporation.

Hear Hannah Tell Her Story at the LMV Startup Bootcamp

From January 31 to February 2, 2025, Hannah Sandmeyer will bring her expertise to the Launch Mid Valley Startup Bootcamp, where she will share insights on how businesses can grow with integrity and impact and become a force for good.

Save these dates and stay tuned for details on this opportunity to learn what it really means for businesses to have a lasting positive impact on their communities.

Community Catalyst: How Kate Schwarzler Fires Up Innovation in Independence

All across the US, we tend to hear stories of small rural towns shrinking and fading away. There are few opportunities to grow, so residents often move to bigger cities for better jobs and better ways to live.

That’s not the story of Independence in Polk County, Oregon. Far from being a quiet little spot amid the state’s wine country, Independence is buzzing – with thriving small businesses and a lot of exciting things for residents to get into.

Independence is a city where innovation is alive, thanks to its tight-knit community and dynamic, forward-thinking leaders.

Kate Schwarzler is one of these leaders who keep Independence moving forward. The owner of the co-working space Indy Commons, Kate’s had a direct hand in the vitality the city is enjoying.

On its homepage, Indy Commons describes itself as “not just a workspace; it’s a community, a catalyst for change, and a celebration of rural innovation.” Kate started this business as a way for Independence residents to create opportunities for themselves. That way, they don’t have to leave just so they can find better jobs or opportunities elsewhere.

Through Indy Commons, Kate has created a space for people to work remotely, build businesses, collaborate with like-minded partners, and be one with community. Aside from desks and work areas, the facility boasts a kitchen, an events space, a marketplace showcasing local products, and even a podcast studio.

Kate’s community contributions extend beyond Indy Commons. She’s also the executive director of Indy Idea Hub, a non-profit organization that provides support to entrepreneurs, individuals, and communities in Polk County.

Indy Idea Hub’s projects include technical assistance to tribal and Latinx small businesses, digital skills training for remote workers, and training for individuals looking to start a food business. The goal is to empower rural communities through entrepreneurship and innovation.

Kate is also on the Advisory Board for Launch Mid Valley (LMV), the Regional Innovation Hub for Polk, Marion, and Yamhill counties. Part of her work for LMV is leading the Indy Coffee Club for Startups and Entrepreneurs at Indy Commons. Through the Coffee Club, Kate extends her passion for building community and facilitating connections that can lead to resource sharing and fruitful collaborations. If you’re in Independence, you can join by RSVP’ing here.

Kate Schwarzler believes that people can create opportunities where they are. The passion for empowering rural communities through innovation that she shares with other community leaders makes the future exciting for Independence.

PATTY SFC BLOG BANNER 1 Sacred Fire Creative

Empowering Rural Communities: The Inspiring Journey of MEDP’s Patty Herzog in Economic Development

Sacred Fire Creative is proud to support and highlight women founders, entrepreneurs, and leaders who are making a profound impact on their respective communities.

In this edition, we focus the spotlight on Patty Herzog, Executive Director of the McMinnville Economic Development Partnership.

Patty’s story is one of passion and dedication to rural economic development. With over 20 years of hands-on experience across both public and private sectors, she spent her career building up communities and creating opportunities in often overlooked areas. From her early days as a small business owner to her current role leading MEDP, Patty strives to make an impact with her work.

Today, Patty guides MEDP as the organization focuses on building up and supporting McMinnville’s manufacturing sector. More than 100 manufacturing companies call McMinnville home and contribute significantly to the local economy. By creating more than 2,200 individual jobs and generating $338 million in revenue, McMinnville manufacturing adds substantially to Oregon’s GDP.

MEDP’s efforts to boost local manufacturing are highly visible in the ongoing “Coolest Thing Made in Yamhill County,” a competition designed to showcase the industry’s vibrancy. Of the 32 entries, homegrown companies Applied Physics Technologies and Blue Raeven Pies rise up as finalists.

MEDP also recently hosted its annual awards, where they honored bespoke bar manufacturer EMPWR Nutrition for expanding their facility and creating 200 new jobs, Phenix Solutions for developing their Ultra 2XL aircraft, and HelloCare for building a 100-strong team providing much-needed caregiving services in the region.

To further boost and support McMinnville’s labor force, MEDP is hard at work completing its Sustainable Workforce Training and Resources project. A collaboration with the local government, the project provides skills training and resources, as well as hosts hiring, internship, and training programs.

MEDP is also on the Advisory Board of Launch Mid Valley (LMV), the regional innovation hub for the counties of Polk, Yamhill, and Marion. Through LMV, Patty and MEDP lend their expertise and experience in supporting the region’s startups and entrepreneurs.

Patty extends her dedication to serving the community outside of her professional roles. She is a member of the Chemeketa College Foundation Board and the McMinnville Public Arts Commission. She also recently joined the Willamette Workforce Partnership.

Patty Herzog’s and MEDP’s journey is an inspiring reminder of the power of targeted economic development in building stronger, more connected communities. Her work paves the way for growth, and we’re excited to see how her vision will continue to influence the shaping of McMinnville’s future through MEDP.

Launch Mid Valley PubTalk: How to Access Venture Capital

Launch Mid Valley PubTalk: A Venue for Entrepreneurs and Investors to Thrive with Local Venture Capital

Are you an entrepreneur ready to take your business to the next level? Or perhaps you’re interested in investing in the future of local startups?

Whether you’re on the founder’s path or looking to become an investor, understanding the world of venture capital is key to unlocking new opportunities.

Why Venture Capital Matters for Entrepreneurs and Investors?

As a founder, scaling a business often requires significant financial resources. Venture capital (VC) can provide that much-needed boost, offering funding in exchange for equity in the company.

But accessing venture capital isn’t just about finding money. It’s about preparing your business to meet investors’ expectations – becoming “investment-ready” and demonstrating a clear path to growth.

On the other hand, if you’re interested in becoming an investor, VC can also be an exciting avenue. Investors provide early-stage funding for startups, often playing a vital role in helping innovative companies get off the ground.

Investing locally adds an extra layer of impact, allowing you to support businesses in your community while potentially reaping financial returns.

A Unique Opportunity to Learn from Local VC Leaders

If you’ve been curious about either side of the VC equation, here’s an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Launch Mid Valley has partnered with Oregon Entrepreneurs Network to host a special event at the Chemeketa Center for Business and Industry in Salem on Wednesday, October 30th.

Dubbed “Launch Mid Valley PubTalk: How to Access Venture Capital,” the event will bring together leaders from local venture funds so they can offer insights tailored to specific goals for both entrepreneurs and aspiring investors.

For Entrepreneurs: The Path to Venture Capital

As a founder, you’ll learn critical strategies to position your business for investment at this Launch Mid Valley PubTalk. From understanding what venture capitalists are looking for to identifying the path to your company’s investability, you’ll gain actionable advice on preparing for and securing funding. Local VC leaders will share their perspectives on why they invest in certain startups and the key factors that drive their decisions.

For Investors: Community-Focused Investment Strategies

If you’re looking to invest in local businesses, this PubTalk offers valuable insights into the mindsets of Oregon-based venture capitalists. You’ll learn how they assess startups, the types of companies they prioritize, and how their investment strategies align with the local economy’s needs. More importantly, you’ll understand how to think about community-centric investing so you can make a positive impact while supporting innovation.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re ready to explore the VC world and learn from the top local experts, don’t miss Launch Mid Valley PubTalk on October 30th.

Gain the tools, insights, and connections you need to succeed as a founder or investor.

Oregon tops other US states as the best for growing businesses in 2024.

Oregon Is the Top State for Growing Businesses in 2024

Digital agency directory DesignRush recently released a report revealing that Oregon has overtaken other US states as a top breeding ground for businesses in 2024.

The report covers September 2022 and 2023 and uses data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. According to this report, Oregon showed a 9.9% rise in new business, meaning 18,273 new entrepreneurs opened shop within that time.

What makes Oregon great for business?

It’s not at all hard to see why Oregon is a great state for growing businesses. Oregon offers a unique blend of factors that make it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs.

Here are some key elements that contribute to the state’s business-friendly environment.

A robust technology sector

Oregon boasts of a strong pool of tech talent that includes engineers, software developers, and data scientists. The state supports research and development initiatives that foster innovation and technological advancements. Portland, in particular, is emerging as a thriving tech hub, attracting startups and established companies alike – which has earned it the nickname “Silicon Forest.”

Outdoor industry and manufacturing

The state has abundant natural resources that provide opportunities for industries like timber, outdoor gear, agriculture, and food processing. This is complemented by Oregon’s solid manufacturing base, which focuses on sectors like aerospace, clean technology, and consumer goods.

Access to infrastructure

The growth of any business is highly dependent on the available infrastructure that allows it to move its products. Oregon has a developed transportation infrastructure for facilitating the efficient movement of goods, from highways and railways to ports and airports. Moreover, the state’s location on the West Coast provides easy access to Asian markets, making it an attractive destination for international trade.

Oregon has plenty of organizations that support entrepreneurs.

Perhaps the biggest thing that Oregon has that makes it an excellent breeding ground for businesses is the support it provides – both from the government and from nonprofits.

On the government side, Oregon offers various tax incentives and programs, including research and development credits and exemptions, through Business Oregon. In addition to these incentives, the state provides resources and assistance to help enterprises start, grow, and succeed.

There’s also the education sector. Oregon has a strong education system and various workforce development programs to ensure a skilled local labor force.

And then, we have nonprofit organizations designed to help small businesses succeed. Here are some of them:

The Mid-Willamette Valley Council of Governments

The Mid-Willamette Valley Council of Governments (MWVCOG) is a voluntary association of local governments in the counties of Polk, Marion, and Yamhill. It assists these LGUs with community planning and development projects to cultivate economic development in the region.

Oregon Entrepreneurs Network

Oregon Entrepreneurs Network (OEN) is dedicated to developing a strong and collaborative business community in Oregon and SW Washington. It focuses on entrepreneurs in the early stages of their journey through funding, education, networking, and mentoring.

SEDCOR

Strategic Economic Development Corporation (SEDCOR) is committed to building up Willamette Valley as a thriving business hub. SEDCOR gives entrepreneurs opportunities to expand and create more jobs for the community by connecting them to funding, education, networks, and resources. Access to these opportunities is as simple as filling out an intake form.

Oregon is a fertile ground for growing businesses, whether they’re new or established. In this state, anyone who aspires to entrepreneurship has the means to turn that dream into reality.

Sacred Fire Creative helps startups and small businesses launch to greatness by building authentic branding and strong connections with audiences. Contact us today, and let’s see how we can collaborate.

SFC congratulates the winners of the 2024 SEDCOR Annual Awards

SFC Congratulates 2024 SEDCOR Annual Awards Winners

At Sacred Fire Creative, we’re all about community over competition. So, we’re always thrilled to see other businesses in the community be recognized for their achievements.

With that, we extend our hearty congratulations to the winners of the 2024 SEDCOR Annual Awards:

Agri-business of the Year: Ruddenklau Farms
Business Partner of the Year: Elise Yarnell Hollamon
Community Leadership Award: Marin Arreola III
Community Service Award: Juli Foscoli, CDP, CBT of South Town Glass
Entrepreneur of the Year: Revino
Innovative Product/Process: Canopii Inc.
Outstanding Public/Private Partnership: The Fly Salem Initiative (City of Salem, Salem Area Chamber of Commerce, Salem Aviation Fueling & Travel Salem)
Small Business of the Year: Blue Raeven Pie Company
Manufacturer of the Year: The Ulven Companies

These businesses and individuals are more than achievers – they are an inspiration to the community. They’re a testament to what can happen when dreams are combined with intention, hard work, and passion.

Congratulations to these winners!

About the SEDCOR Annual Awards

The SEDCOR Annual Awards is an initiative by the Strategic Economic Development Corporation (SEDCOR) to recognize outstanding efforts that impact economic growth in Willamette Valley.

The initiative is part of SEDCOR’s mandate to build and strengthen partnerships with industry leaders, nonprofits, local governments, state and federal agencies, educational institutions, and other parties to create and cultivate economic opportunities within the region.

The 2024 iteration of the SEDCOR Annual Awards is sponsored by Saalfeld Griggs and Business Oregon. The awards given to the winners are a collaboration between Maganda Glassworks and Zena Forest Products.

At Sacred Fire Creative, we help entrepreneurs step up to their greatness through authentic branding, creative storytelling, and building solid relationships with their audience. Contact us today and let’s see how we can collaborate.

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