Overview:
The Northwest Native Chamber is seeking a motivated and dedicated individual to join our team as the Portland Business Resource Navigator. The primary purpose of the Portland Business Resource Navigator is to provide one-on-one technical assistance, mentorship, and consulting services to small business clients through our partnerships and contracts.
Additionally, this position facilitates and teaches workshops and training to small peer-based groups of entrepreneurs. This position will be responsible for some of the organization's program development activities and engagement with various community partners in the Portland area. The role is equal parts heart and mind requiring leadership and passion for BIPOC communities and the keystone that is business ownership and entrepreneurship.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide high-quality business advice and technical assistance to small business owners in Portland. This includes verifying the home or business address is indeed located inside the city of Portland.
- Collaborates with a team of resource navigators to develop and implement strategies that support the growth and success of small businesses, including a network from Inclusive Business Resource Network (IBRN) and Prosper Portland.
- Identify and establish partnerships with relevant organizations, agencies, and service providers to expand the available resources for businesses.
- Conduct outreach activities to promote programs and services offered by the Northwest Native Chamber and the partnering organizations.
- Deliver presentations and engage in public speaking engagements to educate and inform the business community about available resources and opportunities.
- Build and maintain relationships with business owners, community leaders, and partnering organizations to foster a supportive and collaborative environment.
- Assist in the development and implementation of marketing and promotional initiatives to raise awareness of the chamber's programs and services.
- Stay up to date on record-keeping, data collection, and reporting.
Additional Duties:
- Support the planning and execution of workshops, training sessions, and events for small businesses.
- Contribute to the development of educational materials, resources, and tools to enhance the effectiveness of business advising services.
- Responsible for provider-specific data related to the impact and outcomes of the chamber's programs and initiatives.
- Stay up-to-date with industry trends, best practices, and policies affecting small businesses and Native American communities.
- Assist in the management and maintenance of databases, project management software, and other technology platforms. The Portland Business Resource Navigator position utilizes two systems for record-keeping and reporting.
- Work on other projects, as needed.
Skills Required:
- Strong relationship-building and interpersonal skills to establish and maintain connections with business owners, community leaders, and partners.
- Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities, deadlines, and projects simultaneously.
- Proficiency in computer applications, including MS Office, Adobe Creative Suite, database management, Google Suite, and project management software.
- Excellent public speaking and networking skills to effectively communicate and engage with diverse audiences.
- Demonstrated ability to market and promote programs and services to target audiences.
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and take initiative with minimal oversight.
Core Competencies for Business Advisors:
- Business advisors are expected to have the ability to develop positive relationships with clients, motivate them to achieve their goals and provide timely response to their needs, among other soft skills.
- Business advisors must be able to effectively perform the following assessments: 1) Business assessment – Is the business or business idea feasible? Is there a market? Who is their competition? 2) Entrepreneur assessment – Is the entrepreneur capable, qualified and prepared to run this business effectively? Do they have the resources, skills and support system needed to succeed?
- Business advisors must be able to provide high quality technical assistance in the following areas: Comprehensive business planning and strategizing; Business foundations, regulations, and compliance; Financial planning, budgeting, goal setting, record keeping, basic accounting concepts; Bookkeeping and business management strategies; Key financial components – cashflow, balance sheet, income statement, profit and loss, product cost analysis, etc.; Business operations; Marketing strategies, including digital marketing and brand management; Market research and analysis; Growth strategies
- Business advisors must be able to identify specialty issues such as legal, human resources and accounting needs to be able to refer clients to the appropriate professional services.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in business administration, entrepreneurship, economics, or a related field preferred.
- Experience in small business development, non-profit organizations, or similar roles is highly desirable.
- Familiarity with Native American communities, culture, and issues is preferred.
- Knowledge of local, state, and federal resources and programs available to small businesses is an asset.
- Understanding the challenges faced by Native-owned businesses and BIPOC-owned enterprises is beneficial.
Work Environment:
This position will work under normal business office conditions. This position’s primary office will be determined once an applicant is selected, and the ability to work remotely as necessary.
Physical Demands:
The tasks of this position are normally performed while sitting at a desk, often using a computer. Mobility is required to attend meetings, attend training and workshops, and to accomplish other necessary tasks. The periodic ability to travel independently to various locations within the Pacific Northwest region is required. Regular lifting of up to 10 pounds, and occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds is expected. Must be able to maintain an excellent attendance record.
Hiring Statement:
The Northwest Native Chamber is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to a multicultural environment and strongly encourage applications from women, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities. This job description is not an employment contract and either party may terminate employment at any time. The job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
Application Process:
Qualified enrolled citizens of federally recognized Tribes or Native Alaskans are highly encouraged to apply. Send a cover letter that includes a brief narrative describing how your background makes you the ideal candidate for this position, resume and contact information for at least three professional references through the Indeed ad.
This position offers an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the small business communities in the Pacific Northwest. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a genuine interest in working in the non-profit sector, small business development, and with Native American communities. If you are passionate about supporting entrepreneurs, fostering economic growth, and driving positive change, we encourage you to apply for the position of Portland Business Resource Navigator at the Northwest Native Chamber.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $30.00 - $33.00 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Portland, OR 97239
