Experts estimate 30% of the work force will be telecommuting by 2020. Here are just a few of the amazing places* to work remotely around the Silicon Forest.
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Oregon's high-tech boom has included many smaller communities, and in few places is that more apparent than Independence. The town has partnered with major tech players to boost tourism and agricultural initiatives in recent years. And Indy Commons has played a central role in the town's tech industry growth.
The downtown coworking space isn't just a place for remote workers. It's a partner in many of Independence's economic development efforts, working to nurture some of the most promising startups that have originated within its walls.
"Coworking does look different in a rural community," Indy Commons owner Kate Schwarzler said. "It's about asking how do we get people to start up their own companies, and then being able to bring programming into here that helps. It makes this a hub for entrepreneurs and business activity."
Entrepreneurs want to live in Bend so badly that they'll move to town and figure out how to make their business work after. That makes BendTECH more than just a coworking office. With drop-in desks and conference rooms, the central Oregon region's large remote workforce has a gathering place to hold meetings and find an audience for product pitches.
BendTECH responded to the area's needs following its 2014 launch, executive director Amanda Krantz said. Today it hosts web development workshops, coding bootcamps and meetups for Bend's tech community.
"I'd say we're a hub, a connector for people who move to town, work here and graduate out to a bigger space,"
Krantz said. "We try to get people the help and resources
they need for their work."
*Technology Association of Oregon staff can be found at HQ in NE Portland or during weekly office hours at coworking spaces throughout the state including WeWork and Centrl Office!
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