Heritage, including historic buildings, are important for community development and tourism across Oregon. The goals of the Oregon Heritage Commission include advocating for and promoting the importance of heritage to the state and its communities, as well as the opportunities to participate in it.
One way that the Heritage Commission encourages community development and heritage tourism by organizations is through its grant programs.
There are organizations in Oregon and around the country with resources to assist with historic preservation, community development and heritage tourism. Among those that have participated in Oregon Heritage Commission activities is the National Trust for Historic Preservation.