Oregon Executives Association

History of the MBA The MBA was founded in 1974 by a group of business owners and leaders in the Portland community who were looking to expand their own businesses. Their plan was to market to each other's business and to share business contacts and sales leads. Only one member per business category was allowed, thus avoiding many competitive sales situations which can occur in other business groups. Membership was by invitation only. The founders also felt it was critical to have the MBA participant be the owner or local manager, someone with decision making authority. By working with other professionals who had key decision making and purchasing authority, members could experience the inside trackon business opportunities. Today, the mission remains to grow local business through personal referrals and direct business and to share knowledge with colleagues and friends. The MBA currently maintains the original intent of its founders. It is an active group of business owners, COO's, CFO's, local managers and key decision makers with a focus on doing business with each other but, more importantly, sharing information about potential business leads and referrals to help increase sales and profitability for each member. MBA Mission Statement To create a dynamic opportunity for select business leaders to increase sales and profitability