The launch of Hotpot last month is an indication of Google’s new approach to the dissemination, and consumer and business engagement of their product. For this matter, Google is launching their first local marketing campaign in Portland, Oregon.

“Portland is a tech savvy, forward-thinking city with a history of innovation and some of the best coffee houses, microbreweries and parks in the country. Whether you know it as The City of Roses, Stumptown, P-Town, Rip City or just PDX, Portland’s thriving local business community and strong heritage of being a trailblazer made it a great choice for us to try something new,” said Google.

To kick things off in Portland, the search giant gave away “business kits” and window decals. With millions of people searching on Google.com for locals businesses every day, Google wants companies to get visibility online by educating them about Google Places and all of its advantages. Moreover, they will be giving away Google Places Business Kits which includes marketing materials for businesses to get exposure online, as well as get them rated and reviewed. Google has given Portland’s top businesses a kit while other businesses can claim theirs too at the Place page. The kit has a bright red “Recommended on Google” window sticker powered by Near Field Communications (NFC) technology. This will allow high-end phones with the likes of Nexus S to find out more information about the business by placing the phone’s back over the sticker.

Google also sponsors community events. An example is its partnership with Voodoo Doughnut. Visit the place starting this Saturday at 10pm to get your special treat.

And finally, the Hotpot Jackpot. This is for Portlanders to rate places they know and share them with everyone. People ages 18 years and above, who live within a 50-mile radius Portland can participate. The prize will be a dinner for 10 at any Portland restaurant. Also, NBA fans will receive t-shirts to show their support to Blazers in tonight’s TrailBlazers vs. Magic game.

Google places is going to be huge for local search results and advertising. There will be more offerings from google the coming months. For updates, follow the Hotpot Blog, or its Twitter and Facebook.