A Room Full of People Who Want YOU to Succeed

Reflections on the King County Technical Assistance Provider Network

Yesterday, I had the privilege of attending an incredible gathering and being introduced to the King County Technical Assistance Provider Network. I got to learn about an amazing array of services available to small businesses here in Seattle, across the State of Washington, and throughout the Pacific Northwest. Walking into that room and seeing so many dedicated organizations all working toward the same goal of strengthening small businesses and entrepreneurs across our region was truly something special.

First, a Huge Thank You

None of this would have happened without the hard work of Monica Colgan of @LaunchIndustries and her team. They do such an incredible job of bringing people together and helping them connect. Thank you for this event – it was a gift to our community.

I'm Part of Something I'm Proud Of

I am currently a consultant for the City of Seattle's Office of Economic Development (OED) Accounting and Business Consulting (ABC) Program. The ABC Program helps Seattle-based businesses and non-profits by offering up to 10 hours of personalized, one-on-one counseling in each of the various categories, at NO COST to the participant. This program gives small businesses expert advice to improve their finances, operations, and long-term growth.

I'm part of the marketing team and I specialize in creating outward-facing visuals such as logos, brands, brochures, menu design, packaging, and signage for both indoor and outdoor use. This role has given me the incredible opportunity to meet, and be inspired by, so many amazing small business owners right here in Seattle, and I love every moment of it.

Shining a Light on the ABC Program Team

There were many fellow consultants from the ABC Program in the room, and I am so proud to call them colleagues. A few shout outs:

• Ellen Brown, of Accounting for Taste, specializes in small restaurant business accounting support

• Dani Cortes, representing Vision7 Advertising, offers business strategy and social media support

• Caleb Fitzgerald, of Black Gallina, provides accounting, operations, and strategic planning support

• Kenneth Linares, of Growing Contigo, helps entrepreneurs and small business owners grow their business

And heading up this incredible team is the fabulous Robyn Duckett, who is truly one of the best program directors I've ever worked with!

Business Improvement Areas: Investing in Their Neighborhoods

Several Business Improvement Area (BIA) representatives were also present. BIAs pool assessments from local businesses to fund supplementary neighborhood services. Things like sidewalk cleaning, district marketing, public safety programs, and local advocacy and supported. They exist to enhance the economic vitality and livability of their specific communities, and they are doing remarkable work.

CDFIs: Community Capital for Those Who Need It Most

We also heard from representatives of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). These are organizations that provide specialized financing, business coaching, and loans to underrepresented entrepreneurs, women-owned businesses, minority-owned businesses, and affordable housing initiatives. A special shout-out to:

• Business Impact NW: One of my personal favorites to partner with! A nonprofit CDFI providing access to capital, business coaching, and classes across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Alaska.

• Tabor 100: An association of entrepreneurs and advocates committed to economic power, educational excellence, and social equity for African-Americans and the broader community.

• Rainier Valley Community Development Fund: A self-sustaining, community-controlled financial institution preserving and strengthening economic opportunity throughout Southeast Seattle.

• Denkyem Co-op: A certified provider of direct funding and they create safe pathways for Black entrepreneurship and innovation in the Puget Sound region.

Neighborhood Associations: Champions on the Ground

Rounding out the gathering were representatives from neighborhood associations who shared what they're doing to support local businesses right in their own backyards:

• Mt. Baker Hub Alliance is fostering a strong community where all businesses, employees, and residents flourish through business advocacy, public space improvement, and civic engagement.

• Phinney Neighborhood Association is building community through programs, services, and activities that connect neighbors and foster civic engagement in NW Seattle.

• Rainier Avenue Business Coalition is empowering small businesses and building community across the Rainier Valley corridor in South Seattle.

• West Seattle Junction Association is a Business Improvement District keeping the Junction safe, clean, and thriving while supporting a vibrant community in West Seattle.

Other people doing other great things If you're a small business owner in Washington, the Good Business Network of Washington deserves your attention. This nonprofit connects over 3,400 businesses, organizations, and residents across the state Their programs span a impressive range: Seattle Made supports 750 urban manufacturers and producers; Seattle Restored activates vacant storefronts with pop-up shops from local entrepreneurs; and Good Food Economy connects regional food businesses while supporting restaurants in preparing meals for those facing food insecurity. If you're a maker, restaurateur, or neighborhood entrepreneur, this is an organization worth knowing, and supporting.

Another organization doing vital work in our region is Seattle's LGBTQ+ Center (formerly Gay City). The Center cultivates access and connections to promote self-determination, liberation, and joy in LGBTQ+ communities — and that extends to the business world too. They maintain a dedicated resource hub for nonprofits and small businesses, helping connect LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and organizations to funding, grants, and community support.

The Takeaway: Seattle Is Behind You

I left this gathering with so much information and such renewed hope. Owning and/or starting a small business can be extremely daunting and expensive but here's the thing: almost all of the services represented at this event are FREE or available at very low cost.

Every organization linked above wants to see YOU succeed. Whether you need financial guidance, marketing support, access to capital, or just a community that has your back, the resources are here.

We can do this, Seattle. 💚

Are you a small business owner who didn't know about these resources? Share this post — someone you know might need it today.

Kirsti Rochon is a senior level Brand Designer and Marketing Professional in the Greater Seattle area. For more information, visit KirstiRochon.com