Berk Nelson

Berk Nelson is a manager at Prosper Portland since September 2020, overseeing strategic initiatives focused on inclusive economic development, equitable wealth creation, and community-led workforce development. Berk leads the Entrepreneurship and Community Economic Development Team, working on programs that promote inclusive entrepreneurship, small business growth, and access to middle-wage jobs for priority communities. Prior roles include project manager for the Central Eastside commercial and industrial initiatives, policy analyst at the Oregon Health Authority during COVID-19 preparedness, and various positions in government relations and law, including VP Government Relations Director at Umpqua Bank, Senior Advisor at Portland City Hall, and attorney roles specializing in immigration law and litigation. Berk holds a J.D. from the University of California, Davis - School of Law and a B.A. in Sociology from Colorado College.