Cascades West Innovation Hub Launches First-Ever Florence PubTalk on How Ideas Get Funded – June 11, 2026

Cascades West Innovation Hub, in partnership with the City of Florence, is bringing a new kind of entrepreneurial event to the Oregon Coast. On Thursday, June 11, 2026, community members are invited to attend Florence PubTalks: How Good Ideas Get Funded, a free, public event designed to demystify how innovation-driven businesses access funding and support.

Taking place from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at Sandpines Golf Links – Birdies & Bogies Restaurant, the event will feature a moderated panel discussion followed by structured networking aimed at fostering meaningful connections between entrepreneurs, investors, and community members.

“Access to funding is one of the biggest barriers for emerging businesses, especially in rural and coastal communities,” said Caitlin Vargas of Collaborative EDO. “This event is about opening the door, helping people understand the process, meet the right people, and see that innovation can happen right here in Florence.”

If you are curious about investing close to home, supporting local entrepreneurship, or growing your own company, this is a special chance to be part of something new in our community

The program will be moderated by Cara Turano, Executive Director of the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network (OEN), and will feature insights from:

• Tracey Miller, Owner of Riptide Sports
• Jim Gochee, Angel Investor

Attendees will gain a clear, approachable understanding of how early-stage funding works, hear real-world experiences from founders and investors, and participate in guided networking designed to spark new ideas and collaborations.

Florence PubTalk is part of a broader effort to grow a more connected and supportive innovation ecosystem across the Cascades West region. The event is supported by Cascades West Innovation Hub, Collaborative EDO, City of Florence, RAIN (Regional Accelerator & Innovation Network) , and Oregon Entrepreneurs Network

What to expect;

4:00 PM – Doors open & networking
4:30 PM – Panel discussion
5:30 PM – Networking
6:00 PM – Event concludes

Light bites and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided for registered attendees.

This event is FREE and open to the public, but space is limited. Advance registration is encouraged.
https://buytickets.at/collaborativeedo/2193840

PubTalk is a registered program of the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network (OEN).