Columbia Gorge SBDC

How do your colleagues describe you?

“Greg has a passion for supporting others and building relationships. If he can’t help you he will find someone who can!”

Why do you do what you do?

We have an amazing team, fantastic resources and a lot of value we bring to small businesses and to the communities we are committed to serve. I enjoy using my years of experience in business development and working with businesses of all types to help our clients bring their dreams to reality.

Bio:

Greg has 20 years of business development experience. He has founded and operated successful for-profit and non-profit companies in the renewable energy industry where he developed a first-of-its-kind energy forecasting and reporting program. He has also worked in sales, marketing, policy, and has spent many years in consulting. He earned his MBA from Portland State University where he was also a part-time professor at the Graduate School of Business. He created and led the study abroad program focused on entrepreneurship, economics and sustainable development.

Greg holds certifications from/in American Management Association, US Dept of Commerce: Export Strategies, Advanced Leadership and Community Development among others.

How do your colleagues describe you?

Josiah is a caring and compassionate leader who challenges his staff to be the best we can be.

Why do you do what you do?

I have always had an interest in improving community, whether a region, town or business. I love being able to share my experiences with others to assist them to be as successful as they can.

Bio:

Josiah has more than 30 years of experience in hospitality management, graphic design and technology training. He and his wife currently own and operate the award-winning Balch Hotel in Dufur, Oregon. He has led businesses throughout the US with teams of up to 200 staff members. He earned his MBA from University of Nevada, Reno where he studied business and non-profits.

How do your colleagues describe you?

Carlos is friendly, smart, and professional. He has the ability to make anyone feel welcomed and at home. Carlos loves to help and is always quick to lend a helping hand

Why do you do what you do?

It is an amazing feeling to help and be a part of the success of others. Coming from a farming community, I have always loved sharing my experiences and knowledge with members of the lesser served communities. I simply love doing work that matters

Bio:

Carlos has more than 20 years of experience in sales, hospitality and banking. In the banking industry, he specialized in small business lending and community outreach. His experience in business start-up and business banking has allowed him to focus on his passion for helping families reach their life and financial priorities. Carlos is a native Spanish speaker and hopes that his experiences will help those from underrepresented communities to realize their dreams of being in business for themselves. Carlos graduated from the American School of Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco Mexico, and holds a bachelor’s degree from Western Washington University.

How do your colleagues describe you?

"Todd brings a thoughtful and measured analysis in helping clients identify solutions to their challenges. He also brings a great sense of humor to help lighten the mood!"

Why do you do what you do?

"I have a significant background in entrepreneurial ventures, especially with startups, and love passing that experience along to others. Most people launching their own business have a lot of unanswered questions. When I can guide them to avoid some of the pitfalls that I went through and to reach their goals faster, that’s very rewarding."

Bio:

Todd has founded multiple companies, including Guitarfish Music (music education), Advantage Point Learning (academic education), and 1-800-RECONEX (telecommunications). He grew each enterprise from a small startup to as many as 800 employees and $20 million in annual revenue.

Todd holds a bachelor's degree from Lewis & Clark College with a double-major in Business & Administrative Studies and Music. He advises clients in the areas of startup, operations, finance, and general management.

How do your colleagues describe you?

Why do you do what you do?

Bio:

Natalie has over 20 years of experience working in the finances of small businesses. These years have included commercial banking lending support and financial analysis, business start-ups, small business bookkeeping and accounting, payroll, and budgeting. Natalie and her husband have owned and operated small businesses of their own in Oregon, bringing valuable experience and skills to an adviser role.

How do your colleagues describe you?

Why do you do what you do?

Bio:

Jeff brings his experiences as a small business owner, manager of single-unit and multi-unit bank branch operations, 30+ years in commercial finance for small and middle market businesses, import / export finance, SBA and government programs, and instructor of college and professional level finance and management courses. His professional roles have been supported by strong interpersonal skills; adaptation to technological changes; thorough understanding of financial statements and tax returns; and establishment, implementation, and tracking of short and long term business plans.