A cluster strategy is the logical organizing principle for growing traded sector industries because disparate efforts at retention, expansion, innovation, international trade, land assembly and workforce development can be coordinated in a manner that makes more efficient use of resources and captures synergies in otherwise unrelated activities (e.g.; coordinated training and research at local universities). In addition, in-depth knowledge of particular sectors fuels catalytic initiatives that move business development efforts beyond traditional assistance. A cluster strategy is especially critical for a market like Portland, where limited resources require selective investments in the groups of firms that demonstrate the most promise of growth.

Clean Energy Works Portland (CEWP) is an innovative effort to deliver affordable home energy upgrades by testing new ways of delivering energy efficiency to homeowners in Portland. The project is intended to save energy, reduce carbon emissions, improve home comfort and home values, and create new jobs and long-term employment opportunties and career paths for Portland area residents.