Soul District Business Association Presents

Soul District Business Exchange:
Resources, Capital & Connection

A live, in-person gathering connecting small business owners in Portland’s Soul District with the resources, capital, and relationships needed to grow and thrive.

When: Thursday, April 30th, 4:30–7:00 PM (Office Hours: 2:30–4:30 PM)
Where: 6607 NE MLK Jr Blvd, Portland, OR 97211

Hosted by Soul District Business Association, Prosper Portland’s Office of Small Business, City land use and zoning experts, and Columbia Bank.

Event Snapshot

  • Office Hours: 2:30–4:30 PM (technical support)

  • Networking Mixer: 4:30–7:00 PM

  • Personal guidance on zoning, permits, and city requirements

  • Direct access to capital and lending conversations

  • Connections to technical assistance and growth programs

Things to know:
• Food and beverages will be available for purchase.
• Street parking only. Parking on MLK BLVD can be narrow, we recommend parking on side streets nearby.
• Event will take place partly outside please come dressed accordingly.

Why This Gathering Matters

One Place for Resources, Capital & Connection

The Soul District Business Exchange is designed for entrepreneurs at every stage who want clear, face-to-face support navigating city processes, unlocking capital, and building relationships with people who are invested in their success.

Resources

Sit down with city staff, zoning and land use experts, and small business advisers to get real answers to your questions about requirements, occupancy, and permitting.

Capital

Meet banking partners and lenders who understand neighborhood businesses, explore lending solutions, and learn what you need in place to access capital.

Connection

Network with other entrepreneurs, meet the Soul District Business Association team, and plug into technical assistance, business development, and growth opportunities.

Schedule

Come for office hours, stay for the mixer

Drop in when it works for you. Come early for one-on-one guidance, then stay to hear about resources available to you, build new relationships with fellow business owners and community partners.

2:30–4:30 PM — Open Office Hours

Drop in anytime during this window to sit down with city staff, zoning and land use experts, small business advisors, and banking partners.

  • Get a tour of Soul District Business Association's techniacal support lab.

  • Explore lending options and access-to-capital pathways

  • Get connected to ongoing technical assistance including first look access to CRM tools.

4:30–7:00 PM — Networking Mixer

An informal, community-centered gathering where entrepreneurs, resource partners, and neighbors connect over food, conversation, and shared goals.

  • Meet fellow business owners from the Soul District
  • Build relationships with SDBA, Prosper Portland, and partners
  • Learn about SDBA technical assistance and growth programs
  • Share ideas, stories, and opportunities for collaboration

Food and beverages provided (Cost may apply). Portions of the event will take place outdoors—dress comfortably for the weather.

Who Should Attend

For Soul District entrepreneurs at every stage

Just getting started

You have an idea or newly launched business and need help understanding requirements, permits, and what support is available.

Growing your business

You’re ready to expand, move, or renovate and want clarity on zoning, occupancy, financing, administrative tools, and/or how to plan your next move.

Rooted in community

You believe in the Soul District, want to support its businesses, and are looking to connect, collaborate, or bring resources to the table.

Community Partners

Brought to you in partnership

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Questions

Know before you go

If you don’t see your question here, connect with the Soul District Business Association team and we’ll be glad to help.

Do I need to register in advance?

We recommend RSVPing so we can plan food and seating, you will be asked to register at the door if you haven't registered online. You can arrive anytime during office hours (2:30–4:30 PM) or for the networking mixer (4:30–6:30 PM).

Is there a cost to attend?

- The office hours are free to attend. (2:30 PM - 4:30 PM)

- The Networking Mixer is free for all SDBA Members and $20 per person for non-members. (One drink ticket and one raffle ticket will be included with entry 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM)

Become a Member Today!

Will there be food and beverages?

Yes, Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

Where should I park?

Street parking is available near 6607 NE MLK Jr Blvd. Please allow a few extra minutes to find a spot, especially during peak hours. Due to narrow streets we do not recommend parking on MLK BLVD.

Will the event be indoors or outdoors?

The event will take place partly outside. Please dress comfortably for the weather and layer as needed. Tents will be present and office hours will partake mostly inside.

Can I bring a team member or partner?

Absolutely. You’re encouraged to invite team members, co-founders, or partners who help make decisions for your business. We will ask that each participant registers for the event.

Register Here

Current SDBA Members -

Free Entry

Thursday, April 30th
Office Hours: 2:30–4:30 PM
Networking Mixer: 4:30–7:00 PM
6607 NE MLK Jr Blvd, Portland, OR 97211

Non Members - $20.00 Registration

Thursday, April 30th
Office Hours: 2:30–4:30 PM
Networking Mixer: 4:30–7:00 PM
6607 NE MLK Jr Blvd, Portland, OR 97211