Collaboration boosts rural economy

Small Business Development Center collaborates to open Boardman hotel

Dec. 19, 2018 LA GRANDE, Ore. –  A new 64-room hotel will soon take shape in Boardman, thanks to collaborative work by the Eastern Oregon University Small Business Development Center (EOU-SBDC), Community Bank, the Small Business Administration, the City of Boardman, and the Port of Morrow. The Boardman Sleep Inn Hotel required $4 million in construction financing and is expected to create approximately 30 new jobs.

Dean of the College of Business Edward Henninger is the university’s new liaison to the EOU-SBDC, and he aims to develop additional partnerships with regional business owners. He said these relationships are mutually beneficial for the university and rural economies.

“This announcement represents yet another proud moment for EOU and the SBDC in our shared quest to serve as an economic engine for our region while providing opportunities for our students to gain hands-on learning experiences through internships, professional development and real-world projects,” Henninger said.

EOU President Tom Insko joined Port Commissioner Jerry Healy in praising the project and its expected effect on the growing area.

“This is a fine example of the impact our Small Business Development Center has throughout the region,” Insko said. “Eastern Oregon University is proud to support and be involved with this project, which will make a substantial difference in the local economy.”