Go-To Resources & Tools
We completely stand by the following tools for small businesses:
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SCORE Free basic mentor program for small and growing businesses
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Hubspot Knowledge Base - ask it anything
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QuickBooks: A business essential
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Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business)
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Portland is absolutely packed with networking events, and if you're a small business owner or running a nonprofit, there's something meant for you happening just about every day. From networking meetups to grant-writing workshops, it can be overwhelming to figure out which ones are worth your time. This calendar is curated with quality events to help you grow and connect.
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We believe in sourcing, shopping, & networking locally, and here are a few resources we recommend:
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Spitzer Tech (tech support)
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AlphaGraphics (print, SW)
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​Precision Images (print, SE)
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Columbia Bank (Umpqua)
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Nedspace Coworking (SW)
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Kiln Coworking (SE)
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​Lewis & Clark Law School for free legal advice
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​40# Coffee for meetups
Our trusted, timeless conceptual design resources come in the form of books:
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"Universal Principles of Design" by multiple authors (#1 pick to understand design in general)
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"Thinking with Type" by Ellen Lupton
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"Grid Systems" by Josef Müller-Brockmann (layout principles)
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"The Design of Everyday Things​" by Don Norman (how design affects behavior)
Tips, tricks and tools for developing your brand:
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Palette Play: An article by yours truly that describes how to create your palette - one of the most memorable brand elements, IMHO
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Google Fonts: The best collection of free typography
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Figma: Totally free, professional-grade tool
These free tools are perfect for getting started, but when you outgrow the free tools, we can help.
Things are changing so quickly in this area that the minute we publish this list, it may be dated. So, get in touch for our latest & greatest tips! Meanwhile:
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SEO vs GEO - Making Your Website AI-Friendly (article by yours truly)
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Google Search Console (Free SEO insights)
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SEMrush (keyword research & tracking)
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BrightLocal (Local SEO Guide)
Business growth - it's all in your head! Literally. Change your mindset, change your business, for better or for worse. Here are some resources to grow with:
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The Abundance Advantage, written by yours truly.
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"How I Built This" podcast
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TED Talk: The Power of Believing You Can Improve (Carol Dweck)