Estonia Strengthens U.S. Presence with Opening of Honorary Consulate in Portland

Estonia Strengthens U.S. Presence with Opening of Honorary Consulate in Portland Mr. Skip Newberry appointed Honorary Consul for the Consular District of Oregon. 

WASHINGTON, D.C. and PORTLAND, Wednesday, January 29 – The Republic of Estonia announces the opening of its new Honorary Consulate in Portland, Oregon, and the appointment of Skip Newberry, President and CEO of the Technology Association of Oregon (TAO) as Honorary Consul of Estonia in the state of Oregon. The new consulate reflects Estonia's dedication to strengthening cultural, economic, and technological connections with Portland and the broader Oregon region, renowned for its innovation, commitment to sustainability, and vibrant tech industry. 

Mariin Ratnik, Undersecretary for Economic and Development Affairs of the Republic of Estonia, and Kristjan Prikk, Estonia’s Ambassador to the United States, will join local dignitaries, Estonian-American community members, and representatives from leading Estonian companies at the opening of the Honorary Consulate. The delegation features Alpa 3D, Leil Storage, Nortal, NV Solutions, Omniva, and Waybiller specializing in AI, file storage, ICT, logistics, and packaging solutions respectively. 

Portland is known as a hub of innovation and forward-thinking solutions, values that Estonia shares as a digital pioneer and global leader in e-governance,” said Undersecretary Ratnik. “We look forward to fostering continued collaboration and creating new opportunities for shared growth in technology, trade, and cultural exchange through the honorary consulate in Portland.” 

Mr. Newberry is a distinguished leader in Portland’s technology ecosystem and he is known as a thought leader and frequent speaker on technology, entrepreneurship, and public-private partnerships. Mr. Newberry brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as an economic development policy advisor to Portland's mayor. He also contributes with his expertise as a member of the Oregon Cybersecurity Advisory Council and the Workforce & Talent Development Board. 

Mr. Newberry expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating: 

"I am deeply honored to represent Estonia in Portland. The country’s pioneering approach to digital transformation and innovation aligns with many of the ongoing efforts in Portland. I look forward to building partnerships and making connections that strengthen our mutual interests." 

Estonia is known as the “Unicorn Nation,” boasting the highest number of unicorn companies per capita in Europe. Estonia is also a fully digitized country with 100% of public service services available through a centralized online portal. For new businesses, it takes 15 minutes to establish a company and three minutes to file taxes. This digitally advanced ecosystem has resulted in accelerated innovation and growth for Estonian companies, supporting the export of products and services to over 120 countries worldwide. 

Estonia, strategically located as a gateway to the EU, counts the U.S. as its 11th largest export partner. Between October 2023 and October 2024, trade between the United States and Estonia

experienced significant growth. U.S. exports to Estonia increased by 63.5% while U.S. imports from Estonia grew by 121%. With its advanced digital economy and strong trade ties, Estonia offers American businesses unique opportunities to collaborate and access the broader European market. 

The Republic of Estonia currently has 17 honorary consuls in the United States. The opening of the honorary consulate in Portland underscores Estonia’s commitment to building a global network and fostering collaboration in key regions. The Honorary Consulate of Estonia in Portland, Oregon is located at 329 NE Couch St, 2nd Floor, Portland, Oregon 97232. An honorary consul has the right to deliver Estonian citizen's passports and ID cards. For more information about Estonia abroad visit washington.mfa.ee. 

Media Inquiries 

Bretty Sarapuu
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Media Advisor
Communication Department
Bretty.Sarapuu@mfa.ee 

Carlos Sunila
‍Miltton USA 
+1 619 951 9996 
carlos.sunila@miltton.com 

About Estonia 

Estonia is a global leader in digital innovation. Known for its e-governance, the world's first e-residency program, and boasting the highest number of startups per capita, Estonia offers a hassle-free and competitive business environment for global businesses. With a focus on transparency, efficiency, and forward-thinking solutions, Estonia is a trusted partner in business and diplomacy. Whether for work, investment, or exploration, Estonia provides a unique blend of innovation, opportunity, and quality of life. Situated in Northern Europe, Estonia consistently ranks high internationally for liberal democracy, political stability, economic freedom, and low corruption. Expert at adapting through innovation, Estonia is ready to tackle seemingly impossible challenges with the promise of a better future.