Central Oregon Community College has named J.C. Nore as the new director of its Small Business Development Center, part of the college’s Center for Business and Community Education. Nore began his role on April 1.
A longtime Central Oregon resident and business leader, Nore brings more than two decades of experience supporting small businesses, leading teams and building scalable programs across private-sector, nonprofit and community-based environments. As a former business owner, he has worked closely with hundreds of organizations, offering practical guidance on operations, marketing, financial planning and growth strategy.
“J.C. brings a rare combination of lived entrepreneurial experience, strategic thinking and deep community connection,” said Stephanie Goetsch, director of COCC’s Center for Business and Community Education. “He understands firsthand the challenges and opportunities that small business owners face and he is uniquely positioned to strengthen partnerships across our region while expanding the impact of the SBDC.”
The COCC SBDC provides no-cost, confidential advising and affordable training to entrepreneurs and small business owners across Deschutes, Jefferson and Crook counties. As part of the statewide Oregon SBDC Network, the center plays a key role in supporting business creation, growth and sustainability throughout the region.
In his new role, Nore will oversee SBDC operations across the college district, including advising services, training programs and community partnerships. He will work closely with local chambers of commerce, economic development organizations and regional partners to ensure that business owners — especially in rural communities — have access to the tools and support they need to succeed.
Nore previously served as director of sales at Cascade Graphics and held leadership roles with Dometic, MPS North America, where he managed customer service operations and developed national training programs. Earlier in his career, he founded and led Connexion Printing Consultants, building and ultimately selling a successful business that supported regional commercial and nonprofit clients. In that role, he maintained advisory relationships with 150–200 organizations annually and oversaw thousands of client engagements.
“I’ve spent my career working alongside business owners through growth, transition and uncertainty,” said Nore. “The SBDC’s mission — to provide practical, trusted guidance to entrepreneurs at every stage — is something I deeply believe in. I’m excited to support Central Oregon’s business community and contribute to a strong, resilient regional economy.”
Nore holds a bachelor’s degree in government and international affairs from Augustana University and has been actively involved in the Central Oregon community through board and leadership roles with several nonprofit and regional organizations.
