What do other folks say about John Sechrest's work? Good things.

The impact of one individual.

John has not only done huge amounts for growing jobs in Corvallis, but he's done a huge amount to put Corvallis on the State, and pacific NW map for entrepreneurs, start ups and most importantly, angel investors and venture capitalists.

He brings a venture capitalist to Corvallis at least once a month for the SwOT
presentations, where start ups are mentored and given advice by professionals.
He links the Willamette Angel conference and other start up work to all of the
movers and shakers in the state. He brought a bus load of tech savvy types
from Portland down to Corvallis for last year's WIN (Willamette Innovators
Network), and he personally keeps us on the radar of all of the investors in
the region.

To give some outside perspective on John's contributions to Corvallis. Here is
what one thought leader said about John

" John Sechrest has put together what is, arguably, the most comprehensive collection of Oregon Angel events and organizations in existence. It's an honor to have the opportunity to publish this guest post."

He published the Definitive Guide to Angel Investing in
Oregon. Silicon Florist Blog Guest Post

In addition, last year he won accolades for Corvallis and the Corvallis-Benton
Chamber Coalition by winning the state 2009 Chamber Outstanding Achievement
Award, at the Oregon State Chamber of Commerce (OSCC) Annual Conference at
Eagle Crest Resort on October 29, 2009. The OSCC only gives two awards annually:
William R. Haas Executive of the Year
Chamber Outstanding Achievement of the Year

THE OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD recognizes an Oregon Chamber for a program or
initiative that elevates their community. The award highlights innovation; impact in the community; collaboration; and leadership.

THE CHAMBER COALITION was nominated for the work led by Economic Development Director, John Sechrest, involving the development of programs supporting the Business Ecosystem Model, specifically for the work on the Willamette Angel Conference (WAC). The Willamette Angel Conference sought to improve three distinct areas of support for startup companies:
1. To improve the ability for startups to seek capital and pitch their
businesses for angel and venture funding.
2. To expand the number of investors by providing education and coaching
to potential investors.
3. To create an angel opportunity in the Midvalley area increasing the
investment in local angel funding.

Isn't this exactly the kind of economic development Corvallis needs and wants? This is value for Corvallis' investment in creating a climate that is welcoming for entrepreneurs, start-ups and creatives to help build a vibrant, diversified economy with private sector jobs.