Derek Evans-Morales and Trygve Waage, co-owners of Reliance HR Solutions, share a strong passion for entrepreneurship, which motivated them to establish their own business in June 2019.
Having worked for a professional employer organization, they recognized areas where improvements could be made and costs could be reduced. This realization, coupled with their extensive networks and skills, propelled them to seize the opportunity and embark on their entrepreneurial journey.
Waage brings a sales and brokerage marketing background, along with experience as a business owner, while Evans-Morales has worked in both the private and public sectors, with expertise in information systems and human resources management. They combine their skills to assist clients in navigating the complexities of employment law, ensuring compliance with payroll, payroll taxes, workers’ compensation, and human resources management.
The co-owners firmly believe that entrepreneurship is an integral part of their identity. They saw a chance to make a positive impact in a field that brings fulfillment by helping others achieve success. Recognizing a mutually beneficial opportunity, they realized that as they support their clients’ growth, their own business flourishes. They appreciate the autonomy that comes with being their own bosses.
With a team of three core employees, Reliance HR serves a diverse range of small and medium-sized businesses across various industries. This exposure grants them a unique perspective that they can apply across different companies. They value the productive relationship that is formed when their success is intertwined with the success of their clients, and they enjoy collaborating with hardworking entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds. 
Over the past three years, the team at Reliance HR has gained valuable insights into the challenges faced by startups and small businesses. They prioritize understanding their clients’ internal policies as a baseline for determining focus areas. This includes examining existing standard operating procedures, employee handbooks, policies related to paid leave, and workers’ compensation management. Addressing these foundational issues is crucial before a business opens its doors.
As a small business themselves, Reliance HR appreciates the support they receive from NAMC-OR and its staff and contractors. They also benefit from networking opportunities and exposure within the entrepreneurial community. Being part of this community, which comprises entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, creates a sense of belonging and fosters growth.