Applications are now being accepted for a newly formed Small Business Taskforce in Grants Pass, an initiative designed to bring local business voices directly into conversations about economic stability, growth, and long-term support strategies within the community. City officials say the task force will serve as a focused, temporary advisory body aimed at understanding current business conditions and identifying practical solutions to challenges facing local enterprises.
The task force will consist of up to seven members. Five of those positions are open to applicants from the community, while the remaining two seats will be filled by representatives from the Grants Pass and Josephine County Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Grants Pass. Appointments are intended to last for the full duration of the task force, which is expected to operate for no longer than 12 months from the date appointments are finalized.
According to the announcement, the primary purpose of the Small Business Taskforce is to assemble a diverse group of business owners and advocates who can offer firsthand insight into the local economy. Members will be asked to examine existing business conditions, consider strategies to help stabilize local enterprises during periods of economic uncertainty, and identify key issues that should be addressed in a long-term business support plan for Grants Pass.
City leaders emphasize that a wide range of perspectives is essential to the success of the task force. Applicants are encouraged from many sectors of the local economy, including but not limited to retail, manufacturing, healthcare, tourism, technology, agriculture, finance, food and beverage, transportation, and at-large business representation. The goal is to ensure that recommendations reflect the varied realities of doing business in Grants Pass, from small storefronts and service providers to larger employers and emerging industries.
By drawing on the experiences of business owners who work directly within the community, the task force is expected to provide grounded, locally informed guidance. Officials note that the findings and recommendations developed by the group will help inform future policy discussions and economic development efforts, particularly those aimed at strengthening the resilience of small and locally owned businesses.
Applications for the open positions are available both in person and online. Interested individuals may pick up an application at the City Administration Office, located at 101 N.W. A Street, or apply online through the city’s official website. The online application can be accessed at:
https://www.grantspassoregon.gov/FormCenter/Administration-10/City-Committee-Commission-Appointment-Ap-65
Completed applications must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, February 27, 2026. Following the application period, appointments will be made by the City Council during its meeting scheduled for Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
City officials encourage eligible business owners and advocates who are interested in contributing to the future economic health of Grants Pass to consider applying. The task force is viewed as an opportunity for community members to play a direct role in shaping strategies that support local businesses and promote a stable, sustainable local economy.