Why Canby
Pro-business climate
Because of its accessibility, pro-business climate, and small town charm, Canby is attractive to regional and international businesses. A business-friendly and progressive team, the Canby economic development staff is committed to helping businesses—whether industrial or commercial—relocate, grow and thrive. And Canby’s locally-owned and managed utilities offer competitive rates, responsive service and ample capacity. Helping new businesses settle in quickly is our priority.
Available land and business opportunities
Canby has one of the largest supplies of large vacant industrial sites in the Portland Metro area, with a variety of parcel locations and sizes. Whether it’s one or 60 acres, Canby offers site selectors the industrial and commercial location they’re seeking. Canby also has developable commercial land along Highway 99E (daily traffic volumes of 24,900) and in the downtown core.
Workforce
Canby’s location within the Portland Metro region means that over 213,000 people live within a ten mile radius, with a labor force of over 166,000. State and regional workforce development initiatives are already in place to help Canby businesses grow and thrive. The Canby High School Career and Technology Education (see video) builds local workforce skills in manufacturing, construction, marketing, accounting, agriculture, graphic design and early childhood education. The nearby Oregon Tech university campus offers ten degree programs focusing on science, technology, engineering, manufacturing (STEM) and software among others. It partners with the High School to enhance STEM proficiency and certificate and degree programs.
Utilities
Canby’s locally-owned utilities offer competitive rates, responsive service and ample capacity. Helping new businesses settle in quickly is their priority. Canby’s expanding businesses and industry, and a growing population, enjoy power rates generally 20-30% lower than surrounding areas because Canby owns its own electric and water services —a result of foresight among Canby’s inspired visionaries. For services, rates and contacts see Utilities.
Location
Canby is a significant economic engine within the Greater Portland Metro Area. Easy access via Interstate 5 and I-205 to Portland International Airport and Aurora State Airport, the deep-draft Port of Portland and downtown Portland are among the many factors attracting new business to Canby. While Canby seems like a small town in rural Willamette Valley, it’s only 25 minutes from downtown Portland, 10 minutes away from I-205 and 10 minutes away from I-5. With a thriving business community, growing residential housing options and expanding population, Canby is one of the most livable cities in the state.
Economic Health
Because of its accessibility, business-friendly approach, and small town charm, Canby is attractive to regional and international businesses. Business activity in Canby is strong, with nearly 800 businesses and over 7,800 workers and an annual GDP of over $650 million. Canby’s leading business clusters include:
- Wholesale Trade and Trucking
- Clean Technology (energy, transportation, and construction)
- High Tech (manufacturing and software development)
- Agriculture and Food Production
- Advanced Technology—Metals and Machinery Manufacturing
Quality of life
Canby is in a stunning setting surrounded by scenic agriculture lands, three rivers, and wide open spaces. Walking, cycling, riding and sporting options abound. Gorgeous Mt. Hood and sunset views are highlights. This Clackamas County community offers a wide variety of events almost every weekend at the Clackamas County Event Center. Summer is a special time with many festivals, outdoor concerts and parades for almost every holiday. This close knit community offers the amenities of a larger city while maintaining a friendly small town feel and a responsive, pro-business attitude. Canby residents and business owners enjoy an enviable quality of life with an abundance of housing, shopping, recreation and entertainment opportunities. Come visit! You’ll find Canby a great place to work and live.
