| KBAC, KCCDC, KEDC, WA CASH, PTAC, SCORE, SBA, WASBDC... This dizzying array of acronyms can be confusing and mysterious to the casual observer. Did you know that these organizations, along with others such as Chambers of Commerce, cities, counties, ports and private companies, work towards economic development and prosperity in Kitsap County? In the last couple of years these organizations have banded together, coordinating resources, making referrals and supporting one another to provide a continuum of service for local businesses. Take a look:
KBAC (Kitsap Business Assistance Center) is a resource for small businesses to access a wide range of services such as no fee one-on-one counseling, business workshops, electronic and print resource materials and is also a referral source for other business services and organizations in the community. They areIt is a part of the Washington Small Business Development Center Network (WASBDC) which is overseen by the Small Business Administration (SBA), and is supported through a partnership of local public and private entities. Phone: 360.307.4220.
KCCDC (Kitsap County Community Development Corporation) is a non-profit municipal corporation managing a Revolving Loan Fund. They It provides gap financing to small business owners to start up or expand their business. They It targets loans for small businesses that will create or retain permanent jobs for low-to-moderate income individuals. Phone 360.307.4240.
KEDC (Kitsap Economic Development Council) is a private, non-profit 501 (c) (6) corporation. Its goal is to attract and retain jobs and investments in our community that generate wealth, enhance the quality of life and embrace future generations. Their Its primary activities are focused around business recruitment and expansion, though they it also assists in product development and are is involved in many county-wide initiatives and policy making efforts that support economic growth. Phone: 360.377.9599.
PTAC (Procurement Technical Assistance Center) assists businesses with any aspect of federal, state and local government contracting. This includes computerized bid matching services, interpretation of solicitations, government registration and certification assistance, training and seminars, marketing assistance and specifications, standards and drawings. PTAC’s services are free with an optional subscription service for bid leads. Phone 425.743.4567.
SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) Headquartered in Washington, D.C., this non-profit association is dedicated to providing free, entrepreneurial counseling and education to all types of businesses and in all stages of development. SCORE’s network of 10,500 retired and working volunteers are experienced entrepreneurs and corporate managers/executives. SCORE is a resource partner with the SBA. For our local chapter call 877.732.7267.
Washington CASH (Washington Community Alliance for Self-Help) provides a business training course, micro-credit lending services from $500-$5,000, technical business assistance and peer support to enable low-income women (especially women currently dependent on public assistance), people with disabilities and new immigrants/refugees to start or expand self-employment ventures. Phone: 360.698.4088.
Whatever your particular need is, these organizations are there to assist you, to leverage other resources in the community and to make sure that you are utilizing the services that offer the best advantage to your company’s growth. Take advantage of these resources and in this case, the price does not reflect the value.
(Editor’s Note: Wendy Miles, Director of Customized Training and Military Education at Olympic College, and , oversees the operation of the Kitsap Business Assistance Center (KBAC). For partnership opportunities, contact her at 360-475-7786. Business Development Specialist at the KBAC, Sharon Zerr, contributed to this article and provides individual counseling for businesses. For business counseling needs she can be reached at 360-307-4220.). |
