Bend Outdoor Worx (BOW), a new Central Oregon outdoor industry incubator that is developing a program to help provide resources to emerging or developing outdoor industry companies, has chosen three companies to participate in the organization’s initial program, beginning in August 2014. Companies include Cairn, a monthly subscription box service for outdoor enthusiasts, Homeschool Technical Apparel, a technical outdoor apparel company and Free Range Backpacks, technical, light-weight backpacks for backcountry and multi-sport athletes.
Focusing on local companies as well as businesses in the outdoor industry who would like to move to Central Oregon, BOW will offer mentorships, infrastructure, related resources and industry connections to help outdoor companies become more sustainable and successful.
The companies who will participate in BOW’s inaugural session include Cairn, a monthly subscription box service for outdoor enthusiasts, Homeschool Technical Apparel, a technical outdoor apparel company, and Free Range Backpacks, technical, light-weight backpacks for backcountry and multi-sport athletes.
At the core of the program is the mentorship from BOW’s industry founders in areas where developing companies may be lacking. Through a process of discovery meetings, analyzation and curriculum building, BOW will determine company needs and provide guidance from the founders and extended mentor group. The incubator will then support these companies by aligning them with additional resources needed to succeed, including legal assistance, financial planning, marketing, logistics, sales, marketing, and product development.
“With all of our natural resources, the outdoor industry is a natural fit with the Central Oregon lifestyle,” says Gary Bracelin, one of BOW’s founders. “We believe businesses can succeed and thrive here – it’s time for Bend to take the lead in the outdoor industry. We’re excited to begin working with companies who have the same goal.”
ABOUT BOW
After assessing common needs from outdoor industry businesses, Bend Outdoor Worx (BOW) was initially conceived in 2013 by Gary Bracelin, a long-time Bend resident and outdoor industry expert. BOW was officially launched in April 2014, when Bracelin was joined by five additional industry experts, including Eric Meade, Rick Fredland, Justin Rae, Will Blount and Howard Allred. The six founders represent various skill sets and a multitude of experience with successful organizations.
For additional information on BOW, contact Gary Bracelin, gbracelin@gmail.com.
ABOUT THE COMPANIES
Cairn
A new monthly subscription service for outdoor enthusiasts, Cairn carefully curates new and interesting outdoor gear and sends it directly to subscribers for a monthly fee. Additionally, Cairn collects data from their subscribers in the form of demographics and product reviews to provide back to participating brands. To learn more about the business, visit getcairn.com.
Homeschool Technical Apparel
With one goal in mind, Homeschool Technical Apparel launched an outerwear business in 2012 with the intent to make the best technical snowboard apparel available. Breathability, durability and timeless design are the cornerstones of the business. Visit homeschoolsnowboarding.com for more information.
Free Range Backpacks
Simple, functional, durable, weight-conscious, minimalist backpacking equipment for backcountry, and multi-sport athletes. For more information, email freerangeequipment@gmail.com or check out Free Range Equipment on Facebook.
