Pierce County Economic Development Department

The Seattle Business Community Ownership Fund, managed by Grow America, provides financial resources and support to businesses in the Seattle area looking to transition to shared or community ownership models. The fund focuses on helping small businesses become employee-owned or community-owned, fostering economic equity, and preserving local businesses. It offers financial assistance, technical support, and advisory services to guide business owners through the process of ownership transition, ensuring long-term stability and local wealth generation.

Better Money Habits, a financial education platform by Bank of America, offers a wide range of resources to help individuals and small business owners make informed financial decisions. The platform provides educational articles, videos, and tools covering topics such as budgeting, saving, credit management, investing, and homeownership. With user-friendly content tailored to different financial goals, Better Money Habits empowers users to build financial knowledge and take control of their personal and business finances.

The AHANA Small Business Grants program, offered by the Multi-Ethnic Business Association (MEBA), provides financial assistance to minority-owned small businesses in Spokane and Eastern Washington. The program is designed to support businesses owned by people of color, helping them grow and succeed through grants and technical assistance. By offering financial resources, AHANA aims to promote economic equity and create opportunities for minority entrepreneurs in the region.

LegalZoom's Fast Break for Small Business is a grant program designed to support small business owners with financial resources and legal services. In partnership with the NBA, WNBA, and NBA G League, the program offers grants of $10,000 along with up to $500 in LegalZoom products and services. This initiative helps entrepreneurs access the funding and tools needed to grow their businesses while ensuring they have the legal support necessary for sustainable success. The program is aimed at small businesses across various industries, with a focus on supporting diversity and inclusion.

Project UP is Comcast's comprehensive initiative to advance digital equity and help build a future of unlimited possibilities. Backed by a $1 billion commitment to reach tens of millions of people, Project UP encompasses the programs and community partnerships across Comcast, NBCUniversal, and Sky that connect people to the Internet, advance economic mobility, and open doors for the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, storytellers, and creators.

The Choose Washington State Financing resource page provides a wide array of funding strategies and financial assistance options for businesses looking to grow or expand in Washington State. It connects businesses with various financing opportunities, including loans, grants, and incentive programs. The resource also offers guidance on how to secure funding and capital to support business ventures, helping entrepreneurs navigate the financial aspects of starting, maintaining, or scaling a business in the state.

The Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs) provide assistance to businesses seeking to compete successfully in federal, state, and local government contracting. PTACs offer a range of services, including one-on-one counseling, training, and resources to help businesses understand the procurement process and navigate the complexities of government contracts. With a nationwide network of centers, PTACs aim to enhance the competitiveness of small businesses and connect them with opportunities in the public sector

SCORE South Sound/Tacoma mentors are highly successful and seasoned business professionals and entrepreneurs with the experience and knowledge to help you achieve your small business goals. Browse resources, take a workshop, or find your business mentor today!

Verity Credit Union is a Seattle-based financial cooperative dedicated to serving its members with a range of personal and business banking services. As a not-for-profit credit union, Verity prioritizes the financial well-being of its members, offering products such as checking and savings accounts, loans, credit cards, and mortgages. Verity also emphasizes socially responsible banking, including programs that support environmental sustainability, social equity, and community development. Members of Verity enjoy competitive rates, low fees, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their local communities

The Tacoma Black Collective Impact Fund, also known as Tacoma Black Fund, is dedicated to supporting Black-led organizations and initiatives in the Tacoma area. The fund provides financial resources to organizations working to address systemic inequities and uplift the Black community through various programs and projects. By focusing on grantmaking and investment in Black leadership, the Tacoma Black Fund aims to foster sustainable social change, economic empowerment, and community development in Tacoma's Black communities.

The South Sound 100 is a recognition program that honors influential leaders in the South Sound region, celebrating those who have made a significant impact on the community and local economy. The program highlights individuals across a variety of industries who have demonstrated leadership, innovation, and dedication to advancing the economic and social well-being of the South Sound area. The South Sound 100 provides a platform for recognizing local leaders who contribute to the growth and development of the region, fostering a sense of community and inspiration among business and civic leaders.

Amber Grants for Women is a grant program specifically designed to support women entrepreneurs by providing monthly grants of $10,000 to women-owned businesses. In addition to the monthly awards, one of the 12 monthly winners receives an additional annual grant of $25,000. The grants are available to women across all industries and sectors, and the application process is simple, requiring applicants to explain their business idea or existing business, as well as how they would use the grant money. The goal of the program is to help women entrepreneurs fulfill their dreams and overcome financial obstacles.

The Washington State Department of Enterprise Services (DES) provides a platform for businesses to explore bidding opportunities and contracts with the state. Through the DES Bid Opportunities portal, vendors can access current solicitations, invitations to bid, and requests for proposals (RFPs) for various state projects and services. The portal supports businesses looking to sell goods and services to state agencies and offers opportunities across a wide range of industries, including construction, technology, and professional services. Businesses can also find guidance on how to become a state supplier and participate in the bidding process.

Grantable is a platform designed to help nonprofits and businesses streamline their grant writing and funding application processes. By using AI-powered tools, Grantable automates much of the repetitive work involved in drafting grant proposals, allowing users to focus on crafting stronger, more persuasive narratives. The platform enables users to save time, reduce errors, and improve the quality of their applications, increasing their chances of securing funding. Grantable also offers tailored grant-finding services, helping organizations identify and pursue relevant funding opportunities.

FocalPoint Coaching is a business coaching and professional development firm that focuses on helping business leaders, entrepreneurs, and executives achieve their goals through customized coaching programs. With a foundation built on the principles of renowned business expert Brian Tracy, FocalPoint offers a variety of services, including business growth strategies, leadership development, time management, and team performance improvement. Their certified business coaches work closely with clients to identify challenges, set clear objectives, and implement actionable plans that drive success and profitability.

The capacity building project provides training and assistance to non-profit organizations operating and/or providing services in the City of Tacoma.The capacity building project provides training and assistance to non-profit organizations operating and/or providing services in the City of Tacoma. The priority focus is to strengthen black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) organizations, newly funded organizations and a select number of cultural organizations whose primary focus is in the arts, culture, or science with a mission to provide accessible public programming and/or youth education program in the Tacoma community. The training is open to organizations currently funded by the City of Tacoma as well as those seeking funding from the city. This program launches in 2024 and focuses in the following areas: grant management, capacity building, and professional development to strengthen small, culturally specific, community-based organizations that historically have not had access to the public and/or private funds necessary to build organizational capacity and infrastructure.

The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Highline College provides free, confidential business advising to small business owners and entrepreneurs in the South King County region. The center offers expert guidance on a range of topics such as business planning, accessing capital, marketing strategies, financial management, and business expansion. SBDC advisors work with clients at all stages of business development, from startup to growth, helping them overcome challenges and achieve success. The SBDC at Highline is part of a national network of SBDCs, providing valuable resources and support to local businesses.

The Tacoma campus of The Evergreen State College provides a unique, interdisciplinary education tailored for students seeking to complete their bachelor’s degree. The campus emphasizes community-based learning, social justice, and addressing urban issues, offering a flexible structure designed to accommodate working adults and non-traditional students. The Evergreen Tacoma campus fosters a close-knit academic environment, encouraging collaboration, critical thinking, and civic engagement, with small class sizes and personalized learning approaches. Students are encouraged to explore broad topics across multiple disciplines, aligning with Evergreen’s commitment to experiential and community-based learning.

UW Tacoma provides students and community members with computer labs, software access, and short-term laptop loans. They also offer Microsoft Imagine Academy courses, providing valuable tech training​

TCC offers digital literacy programs and access to Microsoft software through the Microsoft Imagine Academy. It also has computer labs and offers courses aimed at improving tech skills for both students and the broader community

The Collaborative Project Initiative Network (CPIN) is a platform that fosters collaboration among businesses, nonprofits, and individuals to drive impactful projects and initiatives. CPIN provides tools and resources for project management, networking, and partnership building, enabling participants to work together on shared goals. The platform is designed to connect like-minded professionals and organizations, facilitating the exchange of ideas, resources, and expertise to create meaningful change in various sectors. By offering a space for collaboration, CPIN helps its members grow their impact and reach through collective efforts and strategic partnerships.

Black Directory is an online platform designed to connect and promote Black-owned businesses across various industries. It serves as a comprehensive resource for consumers looking to support Black entrepreneurs by providing a searchable directory of businesses. Black Directory offers businesses the opportunity to increase their visibility, reach new customers, and network with other Black-owned enterprises. The platform also provides news, events, and resources aimed at fostering community growth and economic empowerment within the Black business ecosystem.

WorkSource Pierce is a comprehensive employment and training resource serving Pierce County, Washington. It provides job seekers with various services, including career counseling, job search assistance, skills development, and training programs to help individuals secure meaningful employment. For businesses, WorkSource Pierce offers recruitment support, workforce training solutions, and resources to connect with qualified candidates. As part of the statewide WorkSource system, it aims to strengthen the local economy by fostering a skilled workforce and supporting job seekers and employers alike.

The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) is an organization dedicated to supporting Black-owned businesses and economic empowerment within the Black community. USBC provides resources such as advocacy, access to capital, entrepreneurial training, and networking opportunities to help Black businesses grow and thrive. The organization works to address systemic economic disparities by fostering an environment where Black entrepreneurs can succeed. Through partnerships, educational programs, and initiatives, USBC helps Black-owned businesses navigate challenges, access funding, and connect with opportunities nationwide.

The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) is a federal agency that supports American businesses in exporting goods and services worldwide. EXIM provides financial solutions such as export credit insurance, working capital guarantees, and direct loans to help U.S. companies mitigate risks, access financing, and expand their international sales. The agency plays a crucial role in leveling the global playing field, ensuring American exporters can compete effectively in international markets. By facilitating trade and providing financial backing, EXIM helps businesses of all sizes grow their global reach and support domestic job creation.

Black Future Co-op Fund is Washington state's first Black-led philanthropic organization dedicated to investing in the Black community's health, economic well-being, and cultural vitality. The organization seeks to foster Black generational wealth, support thriving Black-led organizations, and dismantle systemic racism through strategic initiatives and grantmaking. Black Future Co-op Fund collaborates with community partners to amplify Black voices, advocate for policy change, and promote cultural pride and healing. Their efforts aim to create a stronger, more equitable future where Black communities can thrive and flourish across Washington state.

CavnessHR provides innovative human resources solutions tailored for small and medium-sized businesses. They specialize in delivering comprehensive HR support, including compliance management, employee relations, benefits administration, and strategic HR planning. CavnessHR's mission is to help businesses navigate complex HR challenges, ensuring they remain compliant while fostering a positive workplace culture. By offering scalable HR services, CavnessHR enables companies to focus on growth and operational excellence, without the administrative burden of managing HR in-house.

H.O.P Technology Solutions, we provide customized data solutions, from big data warehousing to AI insights, helping businesses optimize operations and make data-driven decisions for growth and innovation.

Constructive HR Strategies specializes in helping organizations optimize their human resources practices to build a thriving and engaged workforce. With a focus on tailored HR solutions, we partner with businesses to enhance employee experiences, streamline HR processes, and foster a culture of growth and compliance. Our expertise spans talent management, organizational development, HR policy design, and compliance, ensuring your company can navigate complex HR challenges with confidence. Whether you're looking to improve team performance, develop strategic HR plans, or resolve workplace issues, Constructive HR Strategies provides the support and guidance needed to achieve sustainable success.

Learn how to make the most of your point of sale and optimize all sides of your business. Strategies to help your business grow. Whether you’re looking to grow sales, streamline your team management workflow, or create exceptional customer experiences, our guides can help set you up for success. How you can boost revenue selling in new channels

South Sound Entrepreneurship Week is a five-day celebration of the South Sound's vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. Led by local entrepreneurs and fueled by our area's unique startup ecosystem, this event is your gateway to discovering the region's innovative heartbeat. Experience the South Sound's entrepreneurial energy through a dynamic lineup of meetups, thought-provoking lectures, engaging panel discussions, and joyful celebrations. Dive into the heart of our startup scene, where ideas flourish, connections spark, and dreams take flight. Join us as we showcase the region's boundless potential and foster the next generation of visionary startups.

Startup253 serves as a hub for Tacoma's startup community, bringing together entrepreneurial leaders, venture capital, corporate, and local government to foster innovation and support new businesses in the South Sound region. They host events, provide resources, and partner with local organizations to enhance the startup ecosystem.

The Northwest Access Fund offers loans to individuals with disabilities in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. These loans can be used for assistive technology, adapted vehicles, and home modifications, with various loan terms and interest rates. They also provide financial coaching and education to help people manage their financial needs effectively. The fund considers each application on a case-by-case basis and aims to assist those who may face challenges in traditional financing.

Do you sell vintage clothing, antiques, or sneakers? Are you a maker, artist, designer or curator? Do you throw down in a (commercial) kitchen and love serving up delicious food? Yes?! Join us at the Tacoma Sunday Market! We curate an inclusive, supportive, and FUN marketplace for small businesses to connect with customers. Apply for one of our upcoming markets!

A program that supports BIPOC-owned/led and women-owned/led creative enterprises by offering rent-free office and conference space, professional development workshops, and event sponsorship for creative entrepreneurs in Tacoma.

Supports the smallest businesses by providing training, resources, and access to grants for microbusiness development.

Provides affordable healthcare plans and benefits designed specifically for small businesses.

Offers resources on business licenses, bid opportunities, city permits, economic development, and more for businesses operating within Puyallup.

Offers educational workshops, training, and resources for small businesses, focusing on compliance, development, and best practices.

Certifies small businesses owned by minority, women, and disadvantaged persons to increase their contracting opportunities with government agencies.

A free six-month intensive business training program aimed at helping entrepreneurs and executives grow their businesses.

Support program for second-stage companies in Washington, providing access to experts, analytics, and best practices for scaling businesses.

Provides financial, technical, and management assistance to small business owners of existing businesses and startups through one-on-one counseling.

Nonprofit organization offering financial literacy education, credit counseling, and business support for underserved communities.

Provides business research tools, market insights, and resources for entrepreneurs through the Pierce County Library System.

Provides business development services, workforce support, and financial assistance programs for businesses in Pierce County.

Offers business services including training, entrepreneurship programs, and professional development workshops.

Provides access to capital, coaching, and business training for aspiring entrepreneurs from underserved communities.

A nonprofit organization offering business coaching, training, and access to capital for small businesses and underserved communities.

Supports local businesses with networking, advocacy, and resources for growth and development in the Lakewood area.

Offers business training, workshops, and financial resources to women entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Local credit union offering financial services, including business loans and banking services, to support small business growth.

Offers consulting services, training, and support to small and medium-sized manufacturers in Washington.

Provides training and support for artists and creative entrepreneurs, as well as space activation and cultural programs in Tacoma.

A nonprofit lender offering loans to small businesses and individuals in underserved communities in Washington and Oregon.

Supports economic development through small business assistance, grants, and development programs.

Provides financial assistance, resources, and support to small businesses in Washington state.

Supports economic empowerment for African Americans and other underserved urban residents through business support and advocacy.

Provides free mentoring, resources, and workshops for aspiring and established small business owners.

Offers free business advising, workshops, and resources to small business owners and entrepreneurs.

Provides business support, advocacy, and networking opportunities for local businesses in the Tacoma-Pierce County area.

If you are starting a business, applying for a grant or planning to invest in the stock market, we have free resources to help you. We have general business research tools as well as resources for small businesses and entrepreneurs. We also have online tools you can use to plan your investments, find funding for your non-profit or look for a job.

Whether you have a long-established business or are just beginning to plan a new business, we have great resources for you to use for free through our Library to Business program. We offer dozens of classes and workshops every year in partnership with local organizations. Our business librarians are trained to help you with all aspects of business research, from data about potential customers to market trends. You can access our online research tools for free with your Library card.

Denkyem aims to create economic mobility within the Black community by providing affordable lending and personalized business support services

Specializing in supporting all businesses with an emphasis on service related industries (creative, design, e-commerce, retail, etc.) </br> We specialize in Business development planning, businessmanagement consulting, customer engagement, Operational strategy, planning and advising, customer resource management (CRM) implementation

Our services focus on helping businesses establish best practices and procedures that result in measurable financial and operational improvements. We work closely with clients to develop strategic business methods designed to increase productivity and profitability. Additionally, we evaluate operational setups to ensure optimized business flow, enhance customer service, and maintain strict adherence to safety and sanitation regulations. Our goal is to drive sustainable growth while upholding the highest standards of excellence.

We specialize in supporting a diverse range of businesses, including those in the food and beverage (F&B) sector, wellness-focused industries, commissary kitchens, and B2B companies. Our expertise extends to recreational marijuana businesses, food security organizations, and service-related industries such as creative, design, e-commerce, and retail. We are committed to empowering BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and women-owned businesses. Our service offerings include establishing best practices and procedures that lead to measurable financial and operational success. We work with businesses to develop strategic methods that boost productivity and profitability, while evaluating operational setups to ensure optimized business flow, improved customer service, and compliance with safety and sanitation standards. Additionally, we provide startup and business licensing support, help with software and IT projects, and offer specialized services for ITIN-holders and independent contractors. Our approach also encompasses business plan development, creating financial projections, setting goals, and offering strategy advisement. We offer human resources support, payroll and benefits management, development of standard operating procedures (SOP), and comprehensive financial assessments and strategies tailored to business needs.

Our company is dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and small business owners by connecting you to culturally relevant tools, resources, and information to help businesses succeed. We work across industries to bring together businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies to create opportunities for building generational wealth for BIPOC communities. Together we are building a sustainable and strong business support ecosystem.

We offer expert services in brand and marketing strategy, helping businesses establish a strong presence in the marketplace. Our design and creative services are tailored to meet unique business needs, ensuring visually compelling and effective brand communication. Additionally, we provide Fractional Chief Branding Officer (CBO) and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) services, offering strategic leadership and guidance to elevate brands and drive marketing success

Our services encompass accounting, tax, and bookkeeping solutions designed to keep your business financially organized and compliant. We also provide payroll and benefits management, ensuring smooth operations for your team. For new ventures, we offer comprehensive startup and business licensing support, along with expert guidance in business development planning and advising. Additionally, our operational strategy services help optimize business processes for efficiency and long-term success.

Our design services cover a wide range of creative needs, including logo design, packaging, and menu design to give your brand a distinctive visual identity. We specialize in marketing and advertising design, as well as comprehensive brand development and design. For businesses looking to enhance their physical spaces, we offer environmental graphics, such as wayfinding signage, storefront signs, and sandwich boards. Additionally, we provide social media template design to ensure your online presence is consistent and engaging.

Our expertise includes comprehensive product development services, ensuring that your offerings are market-ready. We assist with wholesale implementation and pricing strategy, helping you optimize your sales channels and profitability. Additionally, we offer social media implementation, strategy, and best practices to enhance your brand’s online presence. For businesses using Shopify or Square, we provide dedicated website support to streamline e-commerce operations and maximize digital performance

Our services include comprehensive accounting and bookkeeping to ensure your financial records are accurate and up to date. We handle payroll and benefits management to streamline your business operations. Additionally, we offer tax advisory, representation, and preparation services to keep you compliant and optimize your tax strategy. For businesses looking to grow, we provide expert business development planning and advising to guide you toward long-term success.

Specializes in serving businesses: Restaurant & Retail, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, Women-owned, Existing Small Businesses, Nonprofits, Entrepreneurs & Startups

Culture Shifting Summit is an annual invite-only series of deal-making events that takes place in Silicon Valley, New York, Miami and London.

Join us for the Digital Sales Access Program (DSAP) Summit on November 2, 2024, where business owners and community members will participate in hands-on workshops designed to elevate their businesses.

We use advanced tech and data to drive revenue growth for complex B2B companies & startups with an elite team of marketing specialists.

After completing your business plan, it’s time to register your business. Register your business before signing a lease or spending any start-up money. Find out what to expect by reviewing the steps below.

Start by developing a business plan. Visit our Business Planning page for helpful resources. Plan to Succeed The most important step in opening a successful restaurant is developing a clear plan. It pays to consider the many aspects of restaurant operation and business ownership before committing to the project.Build a Strong Plan Incomplete planning is a leading cause of new business failure. A thorough business plan will help make your business concept a reality.

Our Business Online Banking Fundamentals webinar returns next week. Join for basic navigational guidance and best practices. Great for new users or anyone in need of a refresh. Wed 5/8 at 11:00am PST.

Software Development & Cyber Security

This is the largest networking mixer for Entrepreneurs , Startups and Business Professionals In Boston. Calling All: Tech Startups ! Entrepreneurs ! Business Owners ! Professionals ! Free-lancers, policy-makers, game-changers, and heroes! Starting Summer 2024 with Seattle's Best Professional Networking Affair. Please join us for an evening of creativity, inspiration and passionate conversations. Join & raise a glass - make connections with co-founders, partners, coaches or core team members for your start-up- meet fellow professionals and mingle with makers of great and big ideas - take home treats from growing community and some business cards.

Together with our partners, we are building stronger businesses with greater access to global trade. The Greater Seattle Export Accelerator (GSEA) program provides fully sponsored advanced #export training and export advising services for STEM/R&D-focused small businesses in Snohomish, King and Pierce County. Participants receive customized export assistance to reach new global markets and increase sales. To learn more and apply, visit

A comprehensive QuickBooks workshop designed to cater to minority micro enterprises ranging from introductory to intermediate levels.Each session builds on the previous one, ensuring a gradual and thorough understanding of QuickBooks functionalities. Participants will leave with the practical skills needed to confidently manage their business finances using QuickBooks.

The Seattle Office of Economic Development has invested more than $6 million in Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (CLFRF) established under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to support neighborhood economic recovery. Funding was invested through both direct grants to neighborhood business district organizations and public request for proposals (RFP) to support community driven solutions from a broader range of eligible applicants. Applicants included business organizations, community organizations, cultural districts, cultural organizations, arts organizations, small businesses such as community event producers, artists, consultants, or a collection of individuals supporting neighborhood strategies with broadly shared benefits.

This comprehensive QuickBooks workshop is designed to cater to past DSAP attendees ranging from introductory to intermediate levels. Each session builds on the previous one, ensuring a gradual and thorough understanding of QuickBooks functionalities. Participants will leave with the practical skills needed to confidently manage their business finances using QuickBooks.

Backstage Capital invests in companies led by underestimated founders, including women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ founders. We’ve invested in 150+ companies so far, and our support goes beyond investment.

Republic helps founders raise money, engage their communities, and scale for the future.

This venture capital firm invests in early-stage technology companies with a focus on social and environmental impact, including those founded by underrepresented entrepreneurs.

Craft3 is a nonprofit community loan servicing lender that helps businesses, homeowners, nonprofits, and communities across the Pacific Northwest.

a dedicated space for you to continue receiving actionable tips, connect with your peers, and stay up to date with industry news

Honeycomb Credit gives business owners the funding they need to keep growing, and everyone the chance to invest in local businesses they love.

Celebrating the best of the African American community and African Diaspora culture in northwest featuring Music, Food, Culture, and family fun!

CultureCon is the go-to conference for diverse creatives and young professionals

partnership between CoMotion and the Washington Research Foundation to provide over $1.1 million per year of up to $50K grants to project teams.

SizeUp provides you with the data and analytics you need to see how you stack up with competitors and fine-tune your business model for success. Run various scenarios on costs, revenue, location, customers and marketing strategies. You can even see how you compare to similar businesses around the state or the U.S.

rants made by the National Science Foundation (NSF) incentivize and enable startups and small business to undertake research and development with high technical risk and high commercial reward.

Seattle Foundation runs a variety of competitive grant cycles throughout the year that are open to eligible local nonprofits. This page is updated regularly with all our open grant cycles along with currently closed, but scheduled to repeat grant cycles. Please email communitygrantmaking@seattlefoundation.org or call 206.515.2109 with any questions.

Directory. The Seattle Black Business Network unite the local Black-owned business community in the Pacific Northwest.

Teaching High School students no-code web development skills by creating websites for local businesses. High school students acquire all the tools needed to build an e-commerce website for Seattle businesses. Seattle businesses receive a FREE Square business website!