Press Releases

Computer input products manufactured by Wacom, which have made life easier for photographers, designers, animators and artists, have grown so much in popularity that the company is expanding its U.S. headquarters located in Vancouver, Wash. The company will move into its newly expanded offices and distribution center at the end of September 2008. The Vancouver facility serves as the headquarters for all North and South America operations for the company.

The recent opening of SmaK Plastics, a rotational molding manufacturer, adds to the growing cluster of plastics manufacturers located in Clark County, Wash., bringing the total number of companies in the industry sector to 25. The newly-formed company specializes in playground equipment, water sports equipment, and aftermarket parts for snowmobiles and motorcycles.

In recognition of the Port of Vancouver's exceptional commitment to reducing the carbon footprint associated with its electricity consumption, it has been certified as a member of the Environmental Protection Agency's Green Power Partnership Leadership Club. While other ports throughout the country are in the EPA's Green Power Partnership, the Port of Vancouver is the only port in the United States that is included among the Leadership Club.

Initially conceived by a group of computer science students and their professor at Washington State University (WSU) Vancouver, high-tech startup MapWith.Us was recently awarded the $1.2 million in funding necessary to extensively develop its unique cell phone-based mapping software. The software has significant implications for mobile field reporting and social networking platforms because it completely changes the way users share, store and modify maps.

In recognition of their collaborative efforts that resulted in outstanding economic and workforce development successes, Washington State Governor Chris Gregoire honored three southwest Washington organizations with a 2008 Economic Development Award during the Governor's Economic and Workforce Development Conference held September 4, 2008.

Agave, a popular brand of jeans among actors, musicians, and other celebrities, is now calling the small southwest Washington town of Ridgefield home for both its headquarters and its newest retail distribution center. Company founder and CEO Jeff Shafer originally moved to Ridgefield from the Los Angeles area based on the quality of life the area provided his family, but soon discovered that the location and talented workforce were ideal for his burgeoning business.