Business Grants and Resources for Single Mothers in Oregon
Business Startup, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Assistance and Grants for Single Mothers in Oregon
Last updated: September 2025
This is an Oregon‑specific, no‑fluff guide to launch or grow a business as a single mom. It gives you real dollar amounts, direct contacts, timelines, and backup plans. Every program here links to official state or federal sources or established nonprofits, and we cite them so you can verify quickly.
Quick help box
- If you need immediate live help today: Call the Oregon SBDC Network at 541‑463‑5250 to be connected to free one‑on‑one business advising statewide, or book online via the “Find Your Center” tool on OregonSBDC.org. (askjan.org, oregon.gov)
- If you’re on Unemployment and want to start a business: Ask about Oregon’s Self‑Employment Assistance program (SEA). Call 503‑947‑1800 or 800‑436‑6191 to see if you qualify to build your business while receiving your UI weekly benefit for up to 26 weeks. Weekly intro webinar Wednesdays at 9 a.m. Apply through Frances Online after you call. (unemployment.oregon.gov)
- If you need childcare support while launching: Oregon’s ERDC can help pay for childcare at startup and beyond. Initial income limits as of March 1, 2025 are set at 200% FPL, with ongoing/exit at 250% FPL or 85% SMI (whichever is higher). Apply by phone 800‑699‑9075 or online. (oregon.gov)
- If you want women‑focused advising: The Oregon Women’s Business Center (OWBC) is now hosted by Livelihood NW. Free membership, advising, and $5 workshops for members. Spanish line 503‑990‑8255. Join online. (livelihoodnw.org)
- If you need a quick 0‑interestmicroloan:∗∗Kivaoffersupto∗∗0‑interest microloan:** Kiva offers up to **15,000 at 0% interest, no fees. Apply online; typical time from application through crowdfunding to cash is several weeks. (kiva.org)
Emergency first steps that protect your income and time
SEA program so you can build your business while on UI
- Why this matters: If you’re on Unemployment Insurance and likely to exhaust benefits, Oregon’s SEA lets you work full‑time on your startup and keep your UI weekly benefit instead of doing job searches. You can get up to 26 weeks, and business income you earn does not reduce your weekly UI while in SEA. (unemployment.oregon.gov)
- How to start fast:
- Call: 503‑947‑1800 or 800‑436‑6191 and ask about SEA eligibility.
- Attend: The weekly Zoom intro session on Wednesdays at 9 a.m.
- Submit: The SEA application and Business Feasibility Worksheet in Frances Online (you’ll have 45 days after acceptance to submit your full business plan). (unemployment.oregon.gov)
- What you’ll need: Business idea summary, feasibility worksheet, plan within 45 days, and then weekly SEA activity reports. The program will also ask you to obtain a BIN/EIN and to work with SBDC for advising. (unemployment.oregon.gov)
- Reality check: There’s a one‑week “waiting week” with no payment on new claims, and your SEA claim still ends when your UI maxes out. Current UI weekly benefit minimum/maximum as of July 1, 2025 are 204∗∗to∗∗204** to **872. (unemployment.oregon.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the OED Special Programs Center about Training UI (TUI), or continue with standard UI while using free SBDC advising on nights/weekends until you can re‑apply for SEA. (unemployment.oregon.gov)
Fast funding snapshot
Use this to prioritize options most likely to get you money or savings within 30–90 days.
Program | Amounts | Typical timing | Key eligibility | Where to apply |
---|---|---|---|---|
SEA Self‑Employment Assistance | UI weekly benefit for up to 26 weeks while you build your startup | 1–3 weeks to approval after application | Active UI claim, likely to exhaust benefits, viable business plan | Oregon Employment Dept SEA line 503‑947‑1800 / 800‑436‑6191; webinar Wednesdays 9 a.m. (unemployment.oregon.gov) |
Kiva US microloan | 1,000–1,000–15,000, 0% APR | ~3–8 weeks total | U.S. resident, business use, pass “social underwriting” | Online application on Kiva.org (kiva.org) |
SBA Microloan (via local nonprofits) | Up to 50,000∗∗(avg 50,000** (avg ~13k), rates ~8–13%** | Weeks | Startups OK; collateral and personal guarantee common | Find SBA microlenders via SBA.gov (sba.gov) |
Community LendingWorks (CDFI) | 1,000–1,000–100,000 (micro & small business), typical 9–12% | ~30–35 days from complete file | Oregon borrowers; flexible underwriting | Start with online inquiry or call 541‑345‑0446 (communitylendingworks.org) |
Craft3 (CDFI) | 50,000–50,000–250,000 (up to $4,000,000 for larger projects), fixed ~8–11% | 30+ days typical | OR & WA businesses; focus on underserved borrowers | Apply at Craft3; phone on site (craft3.org) |
Business Oregon EDLF (direct state loan) | Up to $1,000,000 lifetime, fixed at Prime+2% (min) | Weeks–months | Work with SBDC or other certified entity; collateral and plan | EDLF program page + local SBDC (oregon.gov) |
Business Oregon OBDF (gap loan) | Up to 2,000,000∗∗,fixed∗∗T‑Bill+12,000,000**, fixed **T‑Bill+1% (min 4%)**; **1.5%** origination + **200 app fee | Months | Traded‑sector projects that create/retain jobs | OBDF page, via lender & Business Finance Officer (oregon.gov) |
USDA REAP grants (rural only) | Grants up to 50% of project costs (RES up to 1M∗∗,EEupto∗∗1M**, EE up to **500k); loans up to 75% | Quarterly cycles | Rural small businesses & ag producers, energy projects | USDA REAP program; Oregon RD State Office 503‑414‑3300 (sba.gov, rd.usda.gov) |
Child Care Infrastructure Fund (for childcare businesses) | Round‑based grants; e.g., Minor Repairs 20k–20k–100k, New Construction/Acquisition up to $2M | Deadline‑driven | Facility projects only; Rounds open per schedule | Business Oregon CCIF page, TA via First Children’s Finance/NWNC (oregon.gov, platform.grantexec.com, fcforegon.org) |
Free one‑on‑one help you can tap today
- Oregon SBDC Network: Free advising at 20 centers statewide. Call 541‑463‑5250 or find your center online. Examples: COCC SBDC Bend 541‑383‑7290, Linn‑Benton SBDC 541‑917‑4929. (askjan.org, cocc.edu, linnbenton.edu)
- Oregon Women’s Business Center at Livelihood NW: Free membership unlocks advising, discount codes for workshops, and a learning library. Spanish line 503‑990‑8255; membership sign‑up on the OWBC page. (livelihoodnw.org)
- SBA Portland District Office: Help with SBA loans, certifications, federal contracting. Phone 503‑326‑2682. By appointment at 419 SW 11th Ave, Suite 310, Portland. (sba.gov)
- SCORE Portland (free mentoring): Call 503‑350‑2005 or visit the Beaverton mentoring center, 12600 SW Crescent St., Suite 160. In‑person and virtual mentoring available. (score.org)
- Government contracting help: Oregon APEX Accelerator (formerly GCAP) offers free help with SAM, bids, certifications. Call 541‑736‑1088 or 800‑497‑7551. (orapexaccelerator.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Use the Business Oregon Technical Assistance Provider Map to locate culturally specific TA providers, or ask SBDC to refer you to a specialist in your industry. (oregon.gov)
Grants and “free money” in Oregon — what actually exists now
Many websites promise easy cash grants; most are either closed, one‑time COVID‑era programs, or they fund nonprofits rather than individual business owners. Here’s what’s real for Oregon in 2025.
Oregon IDA matched‑savings for business start‑up or expansion
- How it helps: You save monthly; the program matches your savings — typically 3:1 — up to $3,000 in match per 12‑month period. Some providers offer up to 5:1 matches depending on goals and funding. Funds can pay for startup costs, equipment, inventory, licenses, and more once you complete your plan and classes. (oregonidainitiative.org)
- Eligibility and limits: Income limits apply; you must save 3+ months before match funds are released. Money saved in an IDA is not counted as a resource for ODHS programs like SNAP/TANF while you’re saving. (oregonidainitiative.org)
- How to apply: Find a provider near you (examples include Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber for business IDAs; contact 503‑222‑0280). Program is managed by Neighborhood Partnerships; main line 503‑226‑3001 ext. 2. (oregonidainitiative.org)
- Timeline: 4–16+ months depending on your savings plan and provider schedule.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Consider Kiva 0% loans, SBA Microloans, or Community LendingWorks while you keep saving. (kiva.org, sba.gov, communitylendingworks.org)
Child Care Infrastructure Fund — only if your business is child care
- What it is: State grants for fixed assets like renovation, new construction, and property acquisition to expand licensed child care. Round 2 (Spring 2025) offered 15M∗∗;Round3opensSeptember17,2025(tentative)withremainingfundsfromthe∗∗15M**; Round 3 opens September 17, 2025 (tentative) with remaining funds from the **50M allocation under HB 3005. Award bands include Minor Repairs 20k–20k–100k, New Construction/Major Reno and Acquisition up to $2M. Deadlines matter. (oregon.gov, delcnews.org, platform.grantexec.com)
- Who should apply: In‑home and center‑based providers planning capital projects; not for general, non‑facility expenses.
- Where to get application help: First Children’s Finance (InfoOregon@FirstChildrensFinance.org) and Northwest Native Chamber offer free TA. (fcforegon.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your SBDC about Small Business Administration 504 loans for real estate or large equipment, or Craft3 owner‑occupied commercial real estate loans. (sba.gov, craft3.org)
City of Portland — targeted small business grants
- As of 2025: Prosper Portland offers repair and restore reimbursements (up to 10,000∗∗and∗∗10,000** and **25,000 respectively) for vandalism‑related costs, plus competitive tenant improvement matching grants (Prosperity Investment Program). These are Portland‑only and subject to funding rounds; call 503‑823‑3200. (prosperportland.us)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Outside Portland, look to your county economic development office and your SBDC for local micro‑grants; sign up for Business Oregon and city newsletters so you don’t miss short application windows. (oregon.gov)
Federal or other topical grants
- USDA REAP for rural businesses and ag producers can cover up to 50% of eligible energy projects (1M∗∗capforrenewableenergysystems;∗∗1M** cap for renewable energy systems; **500k for energy efficiency). Oregon USDA RD State Office 503‑414‑3300 can confirm rural eligibility and deadlines. (sba.gov)
- Reality check: Most federal “small business grants” fund research (SBIR/STTR) or nonprofits. Expect loans or matched‑savings to be your pragmatic path while you watch for grant windows. (oregon.gov)
Capital you can actually get — Oregon and SBA options
Oregon state financing via Business Oregon
- Entrepreneurial Development Loan Fund (EDLF): Direct state loans for startups and small firms, up to $1,000,000 lifetime, fixed at Prime + 2% (minimum), usually up to 10‑year amortization. You apply through a certified entity like your local SBDC. No application fee to work with SBDC. (oregon.gov)
- Oregon Business Development Fund (OBDF): Gap‑financing loans alongside your bank to buy land, buildings, equipment, or working capital. Up to 2,000,000∗∗;fixed∗∗U.S.T‑Bill+12,000,000**; fixed **U.S. T‑Bill + 1%** (minimum **4%**), **1.5%** origination and **200 application fee; up to 20‑year terms. Focus is traded‑sector, jobs created/retained, with preference to rural/distressed areas. (oregon.gov)
- Credit Enhancement Fund (CEF): The state can insure up to 80% of a lender’s loan to you, with max exposure 6,000,000∗∗fortermloans(∗∗6,000,000** for term loans (**1,600,000 for lines). You still borrow from a bank/credit union, but this insurance can get you approved. (oregon.gov)
- Capital Access Program (CAP): Your lender enrolls the loan; fees 3–7% go into a loss reserve that the state matches (up to $35,000 per borrower). It helps newer businesses qualify. Rates and terms are set by the lender. (oregon.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your SBDC to help package an SBA Microloan or 7(a) request, or approach a CDFI like Community LendingWorks or Craft3. (sba.gov, communitylendingworks.org, craft3.org)
SBA loans that fit micro and early‑stage needs
- SBA Microloan: Up to **50,000∗∗(average 50,000** (average ~13,000), max 7‑year term, typical rates ~8–13% through nonprofit microlenders. Can fund working capital, inventory, equipment — not real estate or refinancing. (sba.gov)
- SBA 7(a) — including lines of credit: Flexible use up to 5,000,000∗∗.Interestratecapsvarybyloansize;asof2025manyvariable‑ratecapsrunfrombaserate(oftenPrime)+∗∗6.55,000,000**. Interest rate caps vary by loan size; as of 2025 many variable‑rate caps run from base rate (often Prime) + **6.5%** for loans **≤50k down to base + 3.0% for ≥350k∗∗.SBA’s7(a)WorkingCapitalPilotaddsmonitoredlinesofcreditupto∗∗350k**. SBA’s 7(a) Working Capital Pilot adds monitored lines of credit up to **5,000,000 with those same size‑based caps. (sba.gov, nerdwallet.com)
- SBA 504 (real estate/equipment): Long‑term fixed‑rate financing via a CDC for major assets. Terms 10/20/25 years; maximum $5.5M for most projects. Great when buying a building or large equipment for child‑care centers, manufacturers, etc. (sba.gov)
- How to start: Use SBA Lender Match, then ask SBDC to review your projections before you apply. Call SBA Portland 503‑326‑2682 if you have questions. (sba.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Crowd‑lend with Kiva at 0% or approach a CDFI. Keep your ask small, show specific uses, and bring 3–6 months of realistic cash‑flow projections. (kiva.org, craft3.org)
Startup costs in Oregon you must plan for
Item | What it covers | Amounts |
---|---|---|
LLC Articles of Organization | File with Oregon Secretary of State | 100∗∗filingfee;annualreport∗∗100** filing fee; annual report **100 due on your anniversary date each year. (apps.oregon.gov) |
Assumed Business Name (DBA) | If you’re using a business name different from your personal/legal entity | $50 for 2‑year registration; renew every 2 years. (apps.oregon.gov) |
City/county licenses | Some cities require a local license or registration | Check your city/county; use the Business Xpress License Directory to confirm requirements. (sos.oregon.gov) |
Beneficial Ownership Info (BOI) | Federal FinCEN filing for most LLCs/corps formed in 2024+ | New entities generally must file within 90 days; see Secretary of State guidance and FinCEN for details. (sos.oregon.gov) |
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If the 100∗∗LLCfeeisabarrier,filethe∗∗100** LLC fee is a barrier, file the **50 Assumed Business Name now (as a sole proprietor) while you save for your LLC. Then convert later with SBDC help. (sos.oregon.gov)
Taxes and registration that can save you headaches later
- Corporate Activity Tax (CAT) threshold: You must register for CAT when Oregon commercial activity hits 750,000∗∗inayear;taxisdueonlyifactivityexceeds∗∗750,000** in a year; tax is due only if activity exceeds **1,000,000. The CAT is 250+0.57250 + 0.57%** of taxable Oregon commercial activity above **1,000,000. Call DOR CAT team 503‑945‑8005 with questions. (oregon.gov)
- Paid Leave Oregon — self‑employed opt‑in: If you opt in as self‑employed, your contribution is 0.6% of your Oregon net self‑employment income, up to the Social Security wage base ($176,100 for 2025). You must commit for 3 years; quarterly payments are due Apr 30, Jul 31, Oct 31, Feb 2. Use the contribution and benefits calculators before opting in. For questions call 833‑854‑0166. (paidleave.oregon.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If cash is tight, you can delay opting into Paid Leave and instead build a personal emergency fund using an IDA match if eligible. Revisit opt‑in once revenue stabilizes. (oregonidainitiative.org)
Childcare and leave supports that make entrepreneurship possible
Support | Key numbers | How to use it | Contact |
---|---|---|---|
ERDC childcare subsidy | Initial income limits at 200% FPL (as of 3/1/2025) — for example: family of 2 3,525/mo∗∗,3∗∗3,525/mo**, 3 **4,442/mo, 4 $5,359/mo. Ongoing/exit at 250% FPL or 85% SMI, whichever higher. Copays vary by income; program currently using a waitlist for most families. | Apply online or by phone; ERDC can cover work, school, travel, study time, and night‑shift sleep. Your provider must be approved for ERDC payments. | Apply 800‑699‑9075; DPU billing 800‑699‑9074. (oregon.gov) |
Paid Leave Oregon opt‑in | Self‑employed contribution 0.6% of net self‑employment income up to $176,100 in 2025; total program rate is 1% (employees pay 60%). | Choose coverage in Frances Online; commit for 3 years; use benefits calculator to estimate weekly pay if you need medical, family, or safe leave. | Program site and calculators; support 833‑854‑0166. (paidleave.oregon.gov) |
SEA while on UI | Up to 26 weeks of UI payments while building your business; no work search; keep business income. | Call Special Programs, attend webinar, submit SEA application/worksheet, then weekly activity reports. | 503‑947‑1800 / 800‑436‑6191. (unemployment.oregon.gov) |
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your SBDC to help restructure hours and cash flow; consider part‑time contracting plus ERDC; or pause Paid Leave opt‑in and focus on SEA if you’re on UI. (askjan.org, unemployment.oregon.gov)
Government contracting and certifications that open doors
- COBID certifications (WBE/MBE/ESB/VBE/DBE/ACDBE): Certification can help you access set‑asides and goals in local and state contracts. Typical processing time 30–60 days with complete documents. COBID main line 503‑986‑0075. (oregon.gov)
- Register in OregonBuys to sell to the state: Free supplier registration; integrated with COBID so your certs show. Supplier Support 1‑855‑800‑5046. (oregon.gov)
- Get free contracting help: Oregon APEX Accelerator (GCAP) offers SAM.gov registration, bid‑match, proposal reviews, and training — free. 541‑736‑1088 / 800‑497‑7551. (orapexaccelerator.org)
- Table — your step‑by‑step contracting plan
Step | Action | Link or contact |
---|---|---|
1 | Register in OregonBuys | Supplier Support 1‑855‑800‑5046; online registration page. (oregon.gov) |
2 | Get COBID‑certified (WBE, MBE, ESB, etc.) | COBID 503‑986‑0075; online application portal. (oregon.gov) |
3 | SAM.gov + DSBS profile | Ask Oregon APEX Accelerator to walk you through, free. 541‑736‑1088 / 800‑497‑7551. (orapexaccelerator.org) |
4 | Find opportunities | OregonBuys searches; ODOT training modules explain how to bid. (oregon.gov, content.govdelivery.com) |
5 | Respond and follow up | APEX reviews your proposal; SBDC helps with pricing/cash flow. (orapexaccelerator.org, askjan.org) |
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Start small with a county or school district micro‑purchase, or subcontract under a prime to build past performance while you get certified. (oregon.gov)
Oregon‑specific capital options — side‑by‑side
Option | Best for | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Kiva 0% | Very small asks and strong community support | No interest, no fees, 12–36 month terms | Requires community to lend first; timeline 3–8 weeks |
SBA Microloan | Micro purchases, early working capital | Startups eligible; TA included | Rates ~8–13%; max $50k; cannot buy real estate |
Community LendingWorks | Newer businesses seeking 1k–1k–100k | Oregon‑based, flexible underwriting | Typical rates 9–12%; 30‑day+ process |
Craft3 | Larger capital needs or real estate | Up to $250k standard, higher for major projects; flexible | Documentation heavy; rates typically ~8–11% |
Business Oregon EDLF | Startups adding jobs with plan/collateral | State direct loan; fixed Prime+2% | Requires counseling/underwriting; timeline longer |
SBA 504 | Buying a building or big equipment | Long, fixed rate; 10–25 years | Project complexity; equity injection needed |
Real‑world example
- A Salem home‑baker to licensed bakery: She files an Assumed Business Name now (50∗∗),startsanOregonIDAandsaves∗∗50**), starts an Oregon IDA and saves **100/month. After 10 months, her typical 3:1 match turns 1,000∗∗into∗∗1,000** into **4,000 for a commercial mixer and permit fees. She also secures $7,500 from Community LendingWorks for working capital at 10% for 48 months, and registers in OregonBuys to sell cookie platters to local agencies. Six months later, she applies for an EDLF micro‑project to expand production with an additional oven. (apps.oregon.gov, oregonidainitiative.org, communitylendingworks.org, oregon.gov)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask Livelihood NW/OWBC for inclusive cohorts and safe‑space peer groups. For contracting, APEX can help you navigate inclusive supplier diversity programs that accept WBE plus LGBTQ+ supplier certifications. (livelihoodnw.org, orapexaccelerator.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Use SBDC’s virtual advising if travel is difficult. ERDC can approve more hours, including medical leave and night‑shift sleep; ask about reasonable accommodations when interacting with state programs. (oregon.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Consider VBE certification via COBID for state contracting preferences. APEX can connect you with federal SDVOSB resources if applicable. (oregon.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: OWBC and IBRN partners offer Spanish‑language and culturally specific advising; IDAs are available through providers like Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber. Phone 503‑222‑0280. (prosperportland.us, oregonidainitiative.org)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Northwest Native Chamber provides TA for CCIF and business owners; Northwest Native APEX supports Native entrepreneurs on government contracting in OR/WA/ID. (fcforegon.org, nnapex.org)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Lean on your local SBDC (phone advising), USDA REAP for energy savings, and Craft3 or CLW if your bank says no. Many programs accept e‑signatures and remote submissions. (askjan.org, sba.gov, craft3.org, communitylendingworks.org)
- Single fathers: All programs here are inclusive of single dads; you can use the same contacts, and OWBC serves people “of all gender identities.” (nw.mercycorps.org)
- Language access: Paid Leave Oregon, Business Oregon CCIF, and many agency sites offer materials in multiple languages; ask for interpretation or large print/audio as needed. (paidleave.oregon.gov, oregon.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Business setup: LLC 100∗∗;ABN∗∗100**; ABN **50 for 2 years. (apps.oregon.gov)
- Top 3 fast options for cash: Kiva 0% up to 15,000∗∗;SBAMicroloanupto∗∗15,000**; SBA Microloan up to **50,000; Community LendingWorks 1,000–1,000–100,000. (kiva.org, sba.gov, communitylendingworks.org)
- Childcare and leave: ERDC 200% FPL initial, then 250% FPL/85% SMI; Paid Leave opt‑in 0.6% self‑employed; SEA up to 26 weeks of UI. (oregon.gov, paidleave.oregon.gov, unemployment.oregon.gov)
- Contracting: Register in OregonBuys; call COBID 503‑986‑0075 for WBE/MBE/ESB; APEX free help 541‑736‑1088. (oregon.gov, orapexaccelerator.org)
Application checklist
- Business basics:
- Business plan or one‑page lean plan with 12‑month cash‑flow.
- Photo ID and, if applicable, ITIN or SSN.
- EIN (free at IRS.gov) and Oregon Business Registry record (LLC 100∗∗or∗∗ABN100** or **ABN 50). (apps.oregon.gov)
- Money documents:
- Last 6–12 months of bank statements.
- Prior year tax return (Schedule C if sole proprietor).
- Quotes/invoices for what you’re buying.
- For state loans/grants:
- Proof of Oregon location and jobs created/retained (if required).
- Collateral list and personal financial statement (EDLF/OBDF). (oregon.gov)
- Childcare/leave programs:
- Income documents to check ERDC eligibility; ask DPU if your provider is set up.
- Frances Online account if opting into Paid Leave or applying for SEA. (oregon.gov, paidleave.oregon.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using personal checking for business: Open a separate account immediately to track cash‑flow and deductions.
- Waiting to register: Even if you can’t form an LLC today, file the $50 ABN to secure your name and open a bank account.
- Applying for “grants” that aren’t real: Stick to government sites (.gov), established nonprofits, and your SBDC’s calendar; never pay to apply.
- Missing CAC/registration steps for contracts: Register in OregonBuys and ask APEX to review your SAM and DSBS profile before you bid.
- Ignoring childcare math: If ERDC copay is high, consider a part‑time launch schedule plus SEA or Kiva to stay liquid until revenue stabilizes. (apps.oregon.gov, oregon.gov, orapexaccelerator.org)
What to do if things stall
- If a bank says no: Ask for the denial in writing, then take it to SBDC and a CDFI (CLW/Craft3) that can consider story‑based underwriting. (communitylendingworks.org, craft3.org)
- If childcare slots are full: Apply to ERDC to get on the waitlist; use your regional Child Care Resource & Referral for openings while you wait; consider a provider who accepts ERDC. (oregon.gov)
- If you’re overwhelmed: Book a 60‑minute SBDC session and list three actions to complete in 7 days — e.g., OregonBuys registration, Kiva pre‑qualification, and IDA intake call. (askjan.org)
Regional resources and contacts
- Portland Metro: Livelihood NW/OWBC (Spanish line 503‑990‑8255), Prosper Portland small business grants info 503‑823‑3200, SBA Portland 503‑326‑2682, SCORE Portland 503‑350‑2005. (livelihoodnw.org, prosperportland.us, sba.gov, score.org)
- Willamette Valley: Community LendingWorks 541‑345‑0446 (Springfield HQ), Linn‑Benton SBDC 541‑917‑4929 (Corvallis), Lane SBDC 541‑463‑6200 (Eugene). (communitylendingworks.org, linnbenton.edu, askjan.org)
- Central Oregon: COCC SBDC 541‑383‑7290; regular small business summits in Redmond/Bend. (cocc.edu, paidleave.oregon.gov)
- Southern & Eastern Oregon: Use SBDC center finder and Oregon APEX Accelerator for in‑person contracting help 541‑736‑1088. (askjan.org, orapexaccelerator.org)
- USDA Rural Development, statewide: Oregon State Office 503‑414‑3300 (toll‑free 866‑923‑5626) for REAP and rural financing. (rd.usda.gov)
Content gap watch — how this guide beats typical search results
Most “grants for single moms” pages miss Oregon‑specific numbers and skip the real paths to cash (SEA, IDAs, ERDC, OregonBuys/COBID, Business Oregon loans). They also rarely include phone numbers or exact fees. We closed those gaps with verified amounts, direct contacts, and backup plans from official Oregon and federal sources throughout this page. (unemployment.oregon.gov, oregonidainitiative.org, oregon.gov)
FAQs — Oregon‑specific (10)
- What’s the cheapest legal way to start today: Assumed Business Name 50∗∗for2years;upgradetoLLC(∗∗50** for 2 years; upgrade to LLC (**100) when you can. (apps.oregon.gov)
- Can I get a grant just to start: Rare. Look at IDA matched‑savings and Kiva 0% for near‑term funding while watching for local city/county grants. (oregonidainitiative.org, kiva.org)
- Does Oregon help with childcare if I’m self‑employed: Yes — ERDC covers work/school/study/travel time and night‑shift sleep if you qualify by income; there may be a waitlist. (oregon.gov)
- Can I build my business while on Unemployment: Yes — through SEA if you’re likely to exhaust benefits. Call 503‑947‑1800 or 800‑436‑6191. (unemployment.oregon.gov)
- What are typical loan interest rates I should expect: SBA Microloan ~8–13%, Craft3 ~8–11%, EDLF Prime + 2% minimum. Kiva is 0%. (sba.gov, craft3.org, oregon.gov, kiva.org)
- How do I sell to the state: Register in OregonBuys (free), get COBID certified if eligible, and ask APEX to review your SAM/DSBS. (oregon.gov, orapexaccelerator.org)
- Is there help for women specifically: Yes — Oregon Women’s Business Center at Livelihood NW, free membership and low‑cost workshops. (livelihoodnw.org)
- What if my business is rural and energy‑heavy: Consider USDA REAP grants up to 50% of energy project costs, plus guaranteed loans up to 75%. Call 503‑414‑3300. (sba.gov, rd.usda.gov)
- Do I need to worry about Oregon’s CAT tax as a microbusiness: Only if Oregon commercial activity exceeds 1,000,000∗∗;registerat∗∗1,000,000**; register at **750,000. Tax is 250+0.57250 + 0.57%** above **1,000,000. (oregon.gov)
- Where do I get ongoing free advice: SBDC statewide (541‑463‑5250), SCORE Portland (503‑350‑2005), SBA Portland (503‑326‑2682). (askjan.org, score.org, sba.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Oregon Department of Human Services and Department of Early Learning and Care, Oregon Employment Department, Oregon Secretary of State, Oregon Department of Revenue, Business Oregon, USDA, SBA, and established nonprofits such as Neighborhood Partnerships (Oregon IDA Initiative), Livelihood NW, Community LendingWorks, and Craft3. It follows our published editorial standards for source verification, link testing, and timely updates. See the full methodology and update policy here. (oregon.gov, unemployment.oregon.gov, sos.oregon.gov, rd.usda.gov, sba.gov, oregonidainitiative.org, livelihoodnw.org, communitylendingworks.org, craft3.org)
Last verified: September 2025 — next review scheduled April 2026. Editorial standards and accuracy commitments are described on our Editorial Policy page. For corrections, email info@asinglemother.org; urgent corrections are prioritized. (oregonidainitiative.org)
Disclaimer
Important note: Program amounts, eligibility, and application windows change. Always confirm details on the official agency website or by phone before you apply. Nothing in this guide is legal, tax, or financial advice for your specific situation. Keep your devices and accounts secure — use official .gov links, enable multi‑factor authentication, and never pay third parties for registrations like SAM.gov or OregonBuys that are free. (oregon.gov, orapexaccelerator.org)
If you spot an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it quickly.
🏛️More Oregon Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Oregon
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery