Best 17 Business Ideas in Oregon with Good Profit

Oregon is home to some of the largest global corporations and industries. The state is often referred to as the “Beaver State.”  It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant culture, and thriving economy. If you’re considering starting a business in Oregon, you’re in the right place. Here are some of the best business ideas in Oregon tailored to its unique opportunities and characteristics.

The state is a major producer of lumber, oil, agricultural products, hydel power, and more. With a healthy economic environment, the state offers a diverse platform for new and growing businesses.

Various forms of agriculture, fishing, hydroelectric power, food processing, and electronics are the primary contributors to the state’s economy. Technology is one of the state’s major economic contributors with big names like Tektronix and Intel. If you are planning to start a business of your own from home, here’s a list of the most profitable businesses along with a complete guide on how you can start a successful business in Oregon.

17 Small Business Ideas in Oregon

1. Car Wash Business

One can start a car wash business in Oregon by investing a little and without much experience. Yes, passion for cars and knowledge about car detailing is a big plus to being successful in the trade.

2. Outdoor Adventure Tourism

Oregon’s diverse terrain, including mountains, forests, and coastline, makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You can consider starting a business that offers outdoor activities such as hiking tours, kayaking adventures, or wildlife excursions.

3. Livestock Farming Business

The state of Oregon offers different types of soil and diverse landscapes providing an ideal environment for several types of livestock farming. The famous livestock items produced are dairy products, eggs, and poultry.

4. Craft Brewing

Oregon is famous for its craft beer scene. Portland city is dubbed the “craft beer capital of the world.” If you have a passion for brewing, consider starting your craft brewery or brewpub and tap into the state’s thriving beer culture.

5. Food Trucks and Food Carts

Oregonians have a penchant for eclectic and gourmet cuisine, making the food truck and food cart scene thrive in cities like Portland. Launch a food truck offering unique dishes or a food cart specializing in a specific cuisine.

6. Social Media Manager

Are you a social media person? Well, some companies need avid social media users to manage their accounts remotely. As a social media manager, you are supposed to manage the company’s Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest and you will be paid to put your expertise to work. Find jobs on sites like UpWork, Flexjobs, or CareerBuilder.

7. Tutoring Services

Are you good at your studies? If yes, you can start teaching students and make good money. Some freelance teachers make more than $100 an hour with a year of experience. You can start to offer tutoring services in your locality or even teach online.

8. Hazelnut Business

Oregon is the largest hazelnut producer in the United States producing around 95 percent of the domestic hazelnuts. You can start to produce and export hazelnuts to different states and countries.

9. Coffee Roasting and Cafes

With a strong coffee culture and a preference for locally sourced products, Oregonians love their coffee. Consider opening a specialty coffee roastery or a cozy cafe where locals can enjoy artisanal coffee and pastries.

10. Financial Planner

If you are good with taxes and finances, do an online course to get certified. Within a few months, you can start to help other people manage their finances. Small businesses and individuals need help to prepare tax returns and find investment alternatives.

11. Travel Agency

Tourism plays a major role in the state’s economy. With natural landscapes like mountains, forests, waterfalls, rivers, beaches, and lakes, it has millions of visitors who visit the state every year. You can start to offer travel services via an agency like ticketing, hotel booking, guides, and more.

12. Virtual Assistant

Sites like Flexjobs, CareerBuilder, Indeed, or Upwork offer a ton of options to work as a virtual assistant. You can work for anything with a fixed schedule and timely payments all from the comfort of your home.

13. Affiliate Marketer

If you run a website or have some idea of how to promote something to targeted traffic, you can make money as an affiliate marketer. Some of the best affiliate networks are ShareASale, Rakuten, Clickbank, and Skimlinks which you can use to make money from home with the content you already produce.

14. Freelance Writing Services

Companies around the world need part-time writers for their blogs, social media posts, PRs, and more. You can work from home as a freelance writer and will be paid for the assignments you complete. You can even run a blog of your own to promote your expertise.

15. Business Consultancy

If you have the experience, you start to work as a business consultant and help new businesses establish themselves. Hundreds of small businesses are coming up every month in Oregon, and owners need help with marketing, strategy, manufacturing, and distribution.

16. Senior Caring Business

There is a good demand for senior care services in various towns and cities in the state of Oregon. You need to select the types of senior care services based on the local demand and plan to execute them properly. One can start this business with little money.

17. Tech Startups

Oregon’s tech industry, particularly in cities like Portland and Eugene, is thriving. If you have a background in technology or software development, consider starting a tech startup focusing on areas like software development, app development, or cybersecurity.

Here to Start a Business in Oregon – 10 Steps

If you want to legally start a business in Oregon, follow the given steps:

Step 1. Choose a Business

Choose any of the business ideas from some of the top business opportunities you can start mentioned above.

Step 2. Business Plan

Business plans play a crucial role in shaping your business. If you are ready with an idea, first start working on a feasible plan. Chalk out the strengths, go through all the possible threats your business can face, select the objectives, and set your goals.

Step 3. Financing A Business In Oregon

Oregon offers a healthy business environment with options to have an investment in your new business. You can approach angel investors and venture capital firms for investment or even go for crowdfunding. If you wish to self-finance your business, there are multiple financing options available at attractive rates.

Step 4. Naming Your Business & Domain Registration

A name is required to officially register your business. Find a name, go for something meaningful, and with fewer syllables. Try a business name generator for more suggestions. Once you finalize your name, register it with the US Trademark Department and buy a domain immediately with the same name.

Step 5. Business Registration

You have to choose a business structure for your business in Oregon to be legally operational. Either you can go for an LLC sole proprietorship or corporation. If you opt for an LLC Business Structure, you can enjoy added tax benefits with legal advantages like no individual legal liability.

Read: Top LLC Formation Service Companies

Step 6. Business Licenses & Permits You Need In Oregon

You don’t require a general business license in Oregon. But for a few types of businesses, you must register with the Secretary of State’s, Corporation Division. This will fall under the Central Business Directory.

Step 7. Federal EIN & Tax Filing

Now you need to apply for a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) at the IRS. This will act as your social security number for businesses allowing you to be legally taxed. An EIN is also compulsory to open a business bank account.

Step 8. Bank Account & Setting Up Business Accounting Method

Apply for a business bank account. This will help you to maintain all your financials separately. Next, procure reliable business accounting software for easy management of transactions. Setting up a business accounting system will help you to file your annual taxes without any hassle.

Step 9. Business Insurance

Business Insurance in Oregon is regulated at the state level. You need to get general liability insurance. It is required by the state for most business owners. You will also have to get worker’s compensation insurance if you hire an employee.

Step 10. Promoting A Business In Oregon

Once you are done with the setup in Oregon, it’s now time to take the word out. It’s recommended to go to a professional agency for promotions. You can also use social media to explicitly promote your new business on the internet.

Best Places To Start A Business In Oregon

Choosing the right location is going to determine how your business runs. Here are some of the best places in Oregon to start your business:

• Portland
• Salem
• Eugene
• Beaverton
• Medford
• Bend
• Hillsboro

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to start a business in Oregon?

You can start a legally compliant business in Oregon in two ways. Either you form it yourself or hire a reputed registered agent to do the job at some extra cost. The mandatory payment of $100 for forming an LLC needs to be paid to the Oregon Secretary of State when filing the LLC’s Articles of Organization.

Does Oregon require a business license?

As of now, Oregon state authorities don’t have a general business license. However, you must check with the concerned state agencies or boards if any special license is required to start and run your type of business activities.

Do I need an EIN in Oregon?

Yes, you need to have EIN to start a business activity in the state of Oregon in the United States. Oregon is one of the most economically progressive states in the country. Hopefully, this hands-on guide on how to start a successful business in Oregon will help you to start a business from home with a little investment.

What are some financing options available for new businesses in Oregon?

Financing options for new businesses in Oregon include loans from banks and credit unions, grants from government agencies and nonprofit organizations, investment from angel investors or venture capitalists, crowdfunding, and personal savings or loans from friends and family.

How can I find a suitable location for my business in Oregon?

Research different neighborhoods and cities in Oregon to find a location that aligns with your target market, budget, and business needs. Consider factors such as foot traffic, accessibility, competition, and local zoning regulations when choosing a location.

Are there any incentives or tax breaks available for businesses in Oregon?

Yes, Oregon offers various incentives and tax breaks for businesses, including the Oregon Business Expansion Program, Enterprise Zone incentives, and the Oregon Small Business Tax Cut. Be sure to research available incentives and consult with a tax professional for guidance.