BendNEXT Foundation

The mission of BendNEXT is to strengthen our businesses, economy, and our community through workforce development and retention, leadership development, and activating partnerships to tackle our region’s most pressing issues. Our initiatives address obstacles to a robust workforce, including employee needs for housing, affordability, childcare and other essential supports as well creating a business culture of belonging in an informed and connected community.

The BendNEXT Foundation is the community-based philanthropic arm of the Bend Chamber of Commerce. A 501(c)3 organization, the Foundation focuses on strengthening the entire workforce continuum, including community leadership programs, educational events and local talent development. BendNEXT also spearheads broad and impactful initiatives based on community-need, such as a multi-year Workforce Housing Initiative, a Childcare Initiative, and leading collaborative community efforts to incorporate effective DEI practices into our Central Oregon workplaces.