About Mercatus
Mercatus is more than a business directory, it’s a program built to support, celebrate, and connect Portland Metro’s entrepreneurs.
We exist to remove barriers to opportunity and increase visibility for Portland entrepreneurs who have faced systemic obstacles to success.
By elevating the voices and visibility of diverse business owners—and connecting them with opportunities for capital, exposure, and community—we’re creating more access, deeper connection, and a stronger, more inclusive local economy for everyone.
Mercatus is dedicated to closing documented gaps in business visibility and access by connecting Portland entrepreneurs with resources, networks, and opportunities.
WHAT WE DO
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WHAT WE DO 〰️
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Explore a growing directory of Portland-based BIPOC-owned businesses across industries—from food and wellness to creative services and retail.
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Hosted twice a year in partnership with Travel Portland, My People’s Market is a dynamic marketplace that brings together Mercatus entrepreneurs and the community in a celebration of culture, commerce, and creativity.
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Through partnerships like Portland Means Progress, we share exclusive access to job listings, contracts, and procurement opportunities with over 100 companies committed to equitable sourcing.
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Mercats Meet Ups are quarterly events that spotlights BIPOC-owned businesses while creating space for local entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community members to connect, network, and build meaningful relationships that strengthen our local economy.
