"Linda has an incredible ability to build relationships at every level."
- Emma Mcilroy, CEO, Wildfang
Linda Weston has more than 30 years of senior leadership experience in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, professional sports, and tourism.
Most recently, Linda served as the President and Executive Director of the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network, which provides education, support, and access to capital for early-stage, high-growth companies. During her 17-year tenure, Linda oversaw 60+ programs and events annually and grew the organization to serve more than 55,000 participants across Oregon and SW Washington. A fundraising genius, Linda generated more than $12.2 million in sponsorships, donations and grant funding to expand access to services for entrepreneurs in both urban and underserved areas. Prior to leading OEN, Linda started and served as the General Manager of the Portland Power, the city’s team in the first women’s professional basketball league. Under Linda's leadership, the Power was the league's most successful franchise, leading the league in ticket revenue and second in attendance. Linda started her career in destination marketing. She served for seven years as Director of Sales & Marketing at the Convention & Visitors Association of Lane County and served another eight years as CEO. |
Photo Credit: Edis Jurcys
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"Linda is nothing short of amazing. She'll connect you to folks who will offer guidance and support. She seems to know everyone."
- Zoe Piliafas, Co-Founder VoxSiren
Awards
2020 Portland Business Journal, Women of Influence - Joan Austin Lifetime Achievement Award
2016 Oregon Entrepreneur Network - Lifetime Achievement Award
2015 Portland Business Journal - Co-Winner "Advocate of the Year," Small Business & Innovation Awards
2007 Northwest Women's Journal - "100 Most Powerful Women in the Northwest" Award
2005 Ernst & Young National Entrepreneur of the Year Awards - National Finalist "Supporter of Entrepreneurship" Award
2005 Portland Business Journal - "25 Outstanding Women in Business" Award
2002 Portland Business Journal - "25 Outstanding Women in Business" Award
2016 Oregon Entrepreneur Network - Lifetime Achievement Award
2015 Portland Business Journal - Co-Winner "Advocate of the Year," Small Business & Innovation Awards
2007 Northwest Women's Journal - "100 Most Powerful Women in the Northwest" Award
2005 Ernst & Young National Entrepreneur of the Year Awards - National Finalist "Supporter of Entrepreneurship" Award
2005 Portland Business Journal - "25 Outstanding Women in Business" Award
2002 Portland Business Journal - "25 Outstanding Women in Business" Award
Boards
Linda has served on numerous travel industry and nonprofit boards. She currently serves on the boards of Travel Portland, Social Venture Partners Portland, and Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington.