Building Social Capital to Foster Economic Mobility
Portland Professional Connections (PPC) advances economic mobility by strengthening the power of social capital. We acknowledge that today’s job market is challenging for many individuals and families and we believe that meaningful careers are built through practical insight and a people-first approach. By bridging job seekers to sector professionals, employers, and community resources, PPC harnesses the power of relationships and human-to-human connection to create the belonging necessary for long-term workforce retention and community resilience.
With up to 85% of jobs filled through networking and many never publicly advertised, Portland Professional Connections levels the playing field for diverse and highly-trained professionals. Based on the successful Halifax Connector Program, this innovative partnership between the City of Portland’s Office of Economic Opportunity and the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce matches international talent with established Portland leaders who can share insights and open doors. Through informal coffee conversations and strategic introductions to key contacts, participants gain the social capital and local insights essential for professional success, while helping Portland businesses tap into our community's diverse talent pool.
Portland Professional Connections (PPC) advances economic mobility by strengthening the power of social capital. We acknowledge that today’s job market is challenging for many individuals and families and we believe that meaningful careers are built through practical insight and a people-first approach. By bridging job seekers to sector professionals, employers, and community resources, PPC harnesses the power of relationships and human-to-human connection to create the belonging necessary for long-term workforce retention and community resilience.
With up to 85% of jobs filled through networking and many never publicly advertised, Portland Professional Connections levels the playing field for diverse and highly-trained professionals. Based on the successful Halifax Connector Program, this innovative partnership between the City of Portland’s Office of Economic Opportunity and the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce matches international talent with established Portland leaders who can share insights and open doors. Through informal coffee conversations and strategic introductions to key contacts, participants gain the social capital and local insights essential for professional success, while helping Portland businesses tap into our community's diverse talent pool.
Portland Professional Connections is Back for 2026 – Sign Up Today!
With up to 85% of jobs filled through networking and many never publicly advertised, Portland Professional Connections levels the playing field for foreign-trained professionals. Based on the successful Halifax Connector Program, this innovative partnership between the City of Portland’s Office of Economic Opportunity and the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce matches international talent with established Portland leaders who can share insights and open doors. Through informal coffee conversations and strategic introductions to key contacts, participants gain the social capital and local insights essential for professional success, while helping Portland businesses tap into our community's diverse talent pool.
With up to 85% of jobs filled through networking and many never publicly advertised, Portland Professional Connections levels the playing field for foreign-trained professionals. Based on the successful Halifax Connector Program, this innovative partnership between the City of Portland’s Office of Economic Opportunity and the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce matches international talent with established Portland leaders who can share insights and open doors. Through informal coffee conversations and strategic introductions to key contacts, participants gain the social capital and local insights essential for professional success, while helping Portland businesses tap into our community's diverse talent pool.
Who's Involved?
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Connectors
Established professionals who share their expertise and networks to support foreign-trained neighbors. The Ideal Connector: Minimum 5 years Portland Experience | Relevant Professional Background | Willing to Share 3+ Contacts I Committed to Fostering Inclusion |
Connectees
Foreign-trained professionals looking to build their professional network in Portland, Maine. The Ideal Connectee: Holds Valid Work Permit | Advanced Training or Degree | Possesses Sufficient English Skills | Seeking Career Growth Opportunities |