Proposed Project
INNOVATE: Accelerating Technology and Reducing Risk
Project Lead Organization:
Oregon State University’s TallWood Design Institute
Contact:
Hub Director Hub
Iain Macdonald, OSU
iain.macdonald@oregonstate.edu
Regional Innovation Officer
Marcus Kauffman, ODF
marcus.kauffman@odf.oregon.gov
The goal of this project is to close the cost and efficiency gap with foreign producers by fast-tracking innovation.
Key Strategies:
- Operate an Innovation Derisking Program offering affordable testing and certification support.
- Commercialize technologies in AI-driven forestry, robotics in manufacturing, and prefabricated housing systems.
- Secure long-term timber supply from 1.2M acres of national forests.
- Launch a Maker Space at the Port of Portland to support housing startups.
- Provide code compliance and product certification services to streamline market entry.
Impact by 2035:
- 75 new products launched.
- Factory utilization increased from 47% to 80%.
- Fiber cost gap with Europe lowered.
- 2,500+ prefab housing units produced annually, driving demand and factory efficiency.