SALEM, Ore. — Nearly two months after it was launched, a lending program created by Oregon lawmakers to help companies add workers has resulted in just two new jobs.
The BOOST program was launched June 1 with authority to lend up to $4 million to businesses that can create new permanent full-time jobs in Oregon.
The program also can issue $1 million in total grants, with up to $2,500 for each newly created job, to qualifying businesses.
But since it began, only four companies have applied for grants and none have been approved.
Two businesses have applied for loans. One of them, a Medford wine-making company, says its $85,000 loan has led to two jobs.
