A new Metro program focused on creating partnerships between local government, businesses, nonprofits, foundations and donors in order to leverage resources and make a bigger impact launched on Nov. 28, 2023.
The day featured a Metro Council briefing followed by an official launch event and panel discussion held at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.
The Partnerships and Social Innovation program brings people together across sectors to identify, invest in, and collaborate on projects that will advance racial equity, address climate change, and make a positive impact in greater Portland.
During the Metro Council briefing, Yohannes Wolday, Metro's partnerships and social innovation director, provided an overview of the program and shared things he's heard through conversations with leaders from community organizations, philanthropic and corporate foundations, business and government agencies.
The Metro Council also heard from Freedman Consulting, who represented philanthropic organizations and worked with the California governor's office to develop and launch a similar program. The consultants shared best practices and lessons they learned over the past five years.
Metro Council President Lynn Peterson highlighted the program's role in addressing community challenges, saying, "This initiative is crucial for implementing systemic changes and creating a lasting, positive impact in our communities."
At the launch event, Metro Councilor Duncan Hwang joined Peterson in introducing the new program, emphasizing the need for collaborative solutions to regional challenges. President Peterson echoed this sentiment, saying, "If we're going to be successful, we all need to own it together, equally."
The event featured presentations and a panel discussion with people who have experience with successful public-private partnership programs. They inspired attendees with stories about the impact their partnership programs were able to have in their communities.
Feedback from attendees highlighted the need for cross-sector collaboration and partnership.