Tigard, OR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Entrepreneurship and improved economic resilience

Description: The City of Tigard hoped to create a business incubator to help local entrepreneurs test out their ideas. So the City launched its Tigard on Roll Program, purchasing two food trucks outfitted with commercial restaurant equipment. Startup food vendors can apply to lease the trucks at a reduced rate, and the City provides coaching from business advisors. The trucks -- which sit in Tigard's new Universal Plaza -- also offer an important amenity to residents of downtown. The incubator program specifically targets entrepreneurs from underrepresented communities, which it supports by reducing start-up costs and offering mentorship. Today, residents can find the trucks at a weekly farmers market and at the annual Taste of Tigard food festival.

Portland, OR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Expanding HighSpeed Internet

Description: Community Partners for Affordable Housing set out to close a digital access gap for older adults living on extremely limited incomes. Many could not afford home internet or devices, so tasks like booking appointments, applying for benefits and staying in touch moved out of reach. Resident leaders flagged outdated computers and weak Wi-Fi in shared rooms as barriers. The project upgraded three properties with video-ready computer stations and secure, no-cost Wi-Fi, posted clear instructions and held on-site events where residents enrolled in skills training. The improvements let residents access services without leaving home and build confidence using online tools, supporting greater independence and connection.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.