Sandy's Todd Hoffman creates opportunities for microbusinesses with new venture

Though he’s largely known for his TV presence on “Gold Rush” and “Hoffman Family Gold” on the Discovery Channel, Todd Hoffman has recently made a name for himself in business in Sandy.

Despite spending ample time in Alaska for his gold mining endeavors, Hoffman has called Sandy home for 17 years, and grew up in North Portland.

Over the past few years, Hoffman has acquired a few properties in town — most notably the old VFW building and what is now being called the Revive Suites, both along Proctor Boulevard.

He also owns the building in which a franchisee operates the Sandy Taco Time, and he bought lots near Mt. Hood Athletic Club and Fresenius Kidney Care Sandy of Highway 26, which he later sold to a friend interested in developing a new food cart pod.

The Sandy Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting on May 18, for Horsfall Design Co., which is now leasing the VFW building. And multiple microbusinesses have already started calling the Revive Suites at 38872 Proctor Blvd., home.

Hoffman made the Revive Suites to cater to those who have a microbusiness and don’t want to operate out of their home.

“I really think we need more places for tiny businesses,” he explained. “With the age of Instagram, a single person could come up with a unique idea and run their business all through social media.”

In the interest of making his commercial spaces accessible, Hoffman rents them each out for about $400-$500 a month, including utilities, and depending on the size of the space.

This venture isn’t all about the gold for Hoffman.

“My grandfather used to say: ‘make some money then let the next guy make some money,’” Hoffman said. “This is not a nonprofit, but I’m trying to give people a chance because people gave me a chance. I’m trying to serve these business owners and create the best atmosphere.”

In the Revive building there are about 20 spaces and most of them are already filled, and by predominantly women-owned businesses.

There are multiple salons (for hair and aestheticians), two boutiques – one for baby clothes and one for women’s clothing, as well as a variety of other artists and entrepreneurs.

While Hoffman said he’d be happy to see some of the businesses grow and become so successful they need more space, the Revive Suites is intended as a permanent home for microbusinesses, not just an incubator for those starting out.

That said, the suites has provided a foot in the door for several bourgeoning businesses and Hoffman is happy to see it.

“I want people to be successful and small business to be successful in this town,” he added. “I’m trying to keep business in Sandy so people can shop locally. I’m happy to create opportunities and be part of a small town. I think Sandy is up and coming. What we have here is pretty special. The town is embracing these businesses and I love to see that.”