When Portland looks in the mirror, it sees more than just makers and craftspeople; it sees the forefront of the Global Sports Industry and the rising Epicenter of Women's Sports. It sees a city both firmly established and on the rise, defined by its relentless passion, creative grit, and a personality that welcomes everyone.

Portland’s unique zip code holds an unrivaled connection to the global sports market that few other cities can match. This concentration of power has created an innovation hub, as we are home to the locally-established giants that lead the industry: Nike (Global HQ), adidas (North American HQ), ON (U.S. HQ), and Columbia Sportswear (Global HQ), alongside an influential presence from Under Armour (Corporate Office). This density of industry leadership has cultivated a deep talent pool in design, technology, and performance, cementing Portland as the global hub for athletic and outdoor footwear and apparel innovation.

Our sporting spirit has transcended the competition, making Portland the gold standard for professional women's athletics. We are the home of the Portland Thorns FC (NWSL), one of the most successful women's sports franchises in the world, which consistently boasts record-setting attendance and a uniquely passionate, diverse, and loyal fanbase. Solidifying this status, Portland will soon welcome the Portland Fire, its new WNBA expansion team launching in 2026. Both franchises are united under a shared ownership group that is further cementing Portland's role by investing over $150 million in a first-of-its-kind, dual-sport Women's Performance Center designed specifically for elite female athletes. This community belief proves that in Portland, sports are truly for everyone.

This is a true Renaissance City, where the thriving arts, culinary, and outdoor scenes are uniquely intertwined with its athletes. We celebrate the well-rounded competitor, supporting figures like beloved Trail Blazers All-Star point guard, Damian Lillard, who is equally respected as a recording artist, or local Olympians whose ventures range from world-renowned dining partnerships to New York Times bestselling cookbooks. It's one of the few places where you can surf and ski in the same day, with spare time to grab a cup of coffee and show off your new sneakers—designed just a few miles away—before catching a game. When your event lands in Portland, it will be about the competition, the athletes, and the experience. Hosting in this city will be anything but typical, because we welcome every championship with our whole personality and our unparalleled sports heritage.&#x20;

Portland, powered by Sport Oregon

Showstopper’s 2027 Portland dance competition takes place January 29–31 at the Oregon Convention Center, the organization’s only Oregon event of the season. Designed for studios and dancers of all levels, the competition features five competition levels—including one for dancers with special needs and disabilities—more than 15 dance categories, multiple age divisions, professional critiques, custom Marley stages, professional lighting, LED backgrounds, free livestreaming, and awards for every routine. Pacific Northwest studios can also enjoy a venue conveniently located near MAX light rail, hotels, restaurants, and downtown Portland.

Showstopper

WE ARE AMERICA’S #1 DANCE COMPETITION. Showstopper hosts more than 70 youth dance competitions across the nation. With plans to expand, we are searching for venues to host annual events. 


Dance

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Designed with a sustainable approach in mind, the Oregon Convention Center was the first of its kind to be LEED certified in 2004 and has racked up similar accolades since. As the largest event venue in the Pacific Northwest it is renowned for its architecture, where its twin spire towers and are a highlight of Portland’s Eastside skyline.

Among other features, the facility houses the Portland Ballroom, with 34,000 square feet of floor space, which can be divided into eight sections, as well as a 16,000-square-foot lobby. At large, the center offers 255,000 square feet of contiguous exhibit space with drive-in access from the street level available on three sides. A pair of luxurious VIP suites overlooking the exhibit halls can be rented out, while 52 meeting rooms, high-speed Internet connectivity throughout the building and more make this an excellent option for tournament planners seeking a gorgeous indoor building.