Welcome to this week’s edition of What’s Up, Tigard?, your weekly rundown of how the Tigard Chamber has been championing local business and community vitality. From energizing networking events to behind-the-scenes advocacy at City Hall and beyond, we’ve packed a lot into the past few days and we’re excited to share the highlights with you. Grab your favorite drink and settle in for a quick read, and see how the Tigard Chamber has been working for you and the broader Tigard community.
Our team kicked off the New Year with strong momentum, setting the stage for a successful and impactful year ahead! We partnered with several neighboring chambers for a networking event in Lake Oswego last Friday morning that was designed to help attendees make meaningful connections, sharpen networking skills, and discover new opportunities to grow their business and community presence in 2026. It was a great start to a year full of networking opportunities!
Applications are officially being accepted for the 2026 National Civics Bee. Students in grades 6–8 are invited to write an essay identifying a community challenge, propose a solution, and share how civic principles can help bring it to life. Top essays will advance to the regional and state competitions, with a chance to compete nationally for recognition and prizes – including a $100,000 education savings award for the champion. The application period is open NOW through February 3, 2026. Submit your application here: https://bit.ly/4pf2wSY
January was Business and Economy Day for our Leadership Tigard cohort. Dr. Liza Morehead from Worksystems, Inc. spoke to the group about the Washington County economy. They also heard about Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts, City of Tigard business programs, and the reasons behind Unitus Community Credit Union’s move to Tigard. In addition to the presentations, everyone took a tour of Washington Square Mall and Fought & Company, Inc. followed by lunch from Dragonfly Asian Bistro. It was a fun day of learning for all!
We held our first Good Morning Tigard (GMT) of the year at HOTWORX – Washington Square where attendees learned all about their sauna and infrared workouts. Kick your New Year resolutions into high gear at Hotworx! We look forward to seeing everyone again bright and early at next week’s GMT…
In addition to events, our team was back to executing our mission: Building and Connecting Businesses, Growing Leaders and Shaping Our Community. Megan participated in the City of Tigard’s Economic Development Strategy Workshop #2 to help advance the City’s economic development plan. She also sat down with Representative Sue Rieke Smith, Washington County Commissioner Jason Snider, attended the Oregon State Chamber of Commerce (OSCC) legislative update and board meeting, tuned into the US Chamber State of Business, hosted our Government Affairs and Public Policy Committee meeting and more. Meanwhile, Ainsley is preparing for her Tigard Young Professionals 2026 Kickoff next Thursday, January 22nd at Tap & Table from 6:30-8:00pm.
Are you hoping to partner with us more in 2026? We want to hear from you! Ainsley is actively working on securing Event and Program sponsors for this year and we have several opportunities available for consideration. Please contact us if you would like to learn more!
That wraps up our week, but the momentum doesn’t stop here. If one of these initiatives sparked an idea, a partnership, or a question, let us know! Comment below, reach out to the team, or stop by the Tigard Chamber office on Main Street. And don’t forget to mark your calendar for next week’s events (check the Tigard Chamber Calendar for all the details). Together, we’re building a thriving and resilient Tigard one conversation, one connection, and one bold step at a time.
See you out there!
Your Tigard Chamber Staff