Eugene Economy
With the decline of the timber industry in the 1980s, Eugene and the surrounding area fell on hard times. Through the 1990s the local economy slowly recovered. The area's high technology sector strengthened in 2000 while the forest products industry struggled with weak prices and the recreational vehicle demand slowed due to higher fuel prices and financing costs.

The key to Eugene's economic recovery has been diversity. Eugene's economic base is strong because it doesn't rely on one industry. The local economy is supported by a number of industries and by businesses of all sizes. Including sole proprietorships and limited partnerships, there are more than 10,000 businesses in and around Eugene.

Government and education combined provide more than 20,000 jobs. Health care providers add some 5,000 jobs. In recent years a number of high-tech companies-including Symantec Corporation, and Hynix Semiconductor America-have invested millions of dollars in property, buildings, and equipment in the area and have created thousands of jobs.

At the heart of the Eugene economy are the homegrown small and medium-sized businesses. Most of Eugene's businesses employ fewer than 20 workers. From specialty retail shops to financial service firms, from management consultancies to ethnic groceries, Eugene's small business community is diverse, active, thriving and well-supported.

Chamber Role
Business success means jobs for local residents, taxes to support key government services, contributions to support worthwhile community organizations and a commitment to the community that means Eugene will continue to be one of the country's premier small cities.

For over 100 years the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce has dedicated itself to creating an environment that allows business to succeed. We provide services to new businesses that contribute to a healthy local economy and support existing businesses to prosper and remain stable in a changing economy.

A solid business environment means having easy access to customers and suppliers. That's why businesses were delighted when Horizon Airlines initiated new non-stop jet service into Los Angeles and the recent addition of the Delta Connection between Eugene and Salt Lake City. The service resulted from continued aggressive efforts by the Chamber and the Eugene Airport that have become a national model for airline recruitment.

The Chamber's business assistance efforts focus on areas of Workforce Development, Business Retention/Expansion, Entrepreneurship, Education, Access to Resources, International Trade, and more. (See Chamber Committees or Chamber Priorities for more information). The Chamber also serves as the voice of business, ensuring that the interests of business are considered in local decision-making. The Chamber's Local Government Affairs Council (LGAC) addresses issues pertaining to transportation, regulations, fees, taxes, growth management land use planning and more. We will continue to work with our partners in business, government, and education to improve the quality of life for local residents.

Relocating or starting a business in the Eugene Area
Contact the Chamber, 541/484-1314, or visit our Business Resource Directory if you are considering starting or relocating a business in the Eugene Area. You will be provided with valuable information from the Chamber and our community partners.