Portland is a haven for the eco-conscious and innovators alike.
If you’re seeking a role where you can use your tech skills to create a greener future, this city is calling!
Let’s dive into the unique networking strategies in Portland and how to land your dream job.
Key Networking Spots
- Sustainable-Focused Meetups & Events
- Oregon Entrepreneurs Network (OEN): Events often have a cleantech or impact investment angle.
- Built Green: Geared towards the built environment, but attracts a wider sustainability crowd.
- Portland State University: Check their calendar for cleantech speaker series or student showcases.
- Tech-Focused Spaces with a “Green” Tilt
- PIE (Portland Incubator Experiment): Focus on early-stage startups, some with clear impact goals.
- Co-working spaces: Look for ones mentioning B-Corp status, or those that host cleantech events.
- Online Communities
- LinkedIn Groups: Search “Sustainable tech startups”, “Portland cleantech”, etc.
- AngelList: Sort Portland-based startups by sustainability tags to find less ‘visible’ ones.
- “Good Jobs Boards”: Idealist, B-Work – the postings themselves are networking leads.
Networking Strategies Tailored to Portland
- Passion is Non-Negotiable: You MUST care about the mission, not just the tech stack.
- Be Specific Yet Flexible: Are you passionate about renewable energy, sustainable consumer goods… that guides your search.
- The “Side Hustle” is Respected: Showcasing volunteer work, a relevant blog, etc. demonstrates commitment.
Tips for Success
- “Reverse Engineer” Your Network: Find a few admired sustainable Portland startups. See where their team members went before, that’s your event roadmap.
- Questions as Door-Openers: “How do you balance profitability with social impact?” shows you’re thinking the way they are.
- Wear Your Values (Literally): That upcycled tee, or bike helmet if that’s your commute, signals you fit the culture.