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Have you ever wondered where we would be if we did not have the help of others? You remember the saying, “it takes a village?” Well, it's not only true for raising a child, but also true for a successful business, effective community projects, or anything else where the desired result requires a variety of perspectives, skills and input.
Take the Kitsap Business Assistance Center (KBAC) located in the Norm Dicks Government Center. This program is the result of public and private entities coming together through in-kind or financial contributions to achieve a shared goal: perpetuate economic development in Kitsap County through the success of small businesses. So, who are these entities that are working with the KBAC?
Mayor Cary Bozeman's leadership is at the top of the chain in Bremerton's revitalization, which includes the creation of a positive environment for businesses to prosper. We thank the City of Bremerton and Mayor Bozeman for supporting entrepreneurialism in Kitsap County and for their partnership with the KBAC!
Key Bank is a team player and looks for opportunities to help businesses succeed. Its “Tea for Women in Business” promotes women in the workplace. We commend our partner Key Bank for its insight!
For over one hundred years Kitsap Bank has been promoting our community and supporting business needs through programs such as their Small Business Administration (SBA) Loan program. Our hats are off to our partner Kitsap Bank for its generosity!
Kitsap County committed to a three-year funding plan for the KBAC. Its insight into the need to grow business support services for Kitsap County is reflected in their partnership with the KBAC and this generous approach to funding. Commissioners Jan Angel, Chris Endresen and Patty Lent we thank you for your vision!
Kitsap Peninsula Business Journal is all about spreading business news. As one of our partners, it has given us an opportunity to present this column to you. KPBJ, congratulations for all that you do for business in our community!
Olympic College (OC) President, Dr. David Mitchell, is a strong supporter of business partnering as evidenced by OC's managing role in the KBAC. He states, “We are pleased to have strong community leaders working in partnership to help provide these vital services to businesses in our community.” Olympic College, we are grateful for your contribution and strong partnership role!
The Port of Bremerton is charged with economic development goals and has been a strong partner with special interest in international trade. Commissioners Bill Mahan, Cheryl Kincer and Mary Ann Huntington — we laud your efforts!
Puget Sound Energy plays a role in all of our lives and is a strong community player. We thank you for your continued significant contributions to our community, and your partnership with the KBAC!
Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) was “the energizer bunny” in ensuring that the KBAC got off the ground and did not remain an idea sitting on the table. We thank SCORE for its perseverance!
Washington State Small Business Development Centers (WSBDC) supports similar Centers throughout the state. Its ongoing effort to grow healthy businesses is greatly appreciated - we thank you for your resources!
Our goal at the KBAC is to perpetuate economic development in Kitsap County, and these valued partners help us meet our goal.
(Editor's Note: Wendy Miles, Director of Customized Training and Military Education at Olympic College, oversees the operation of the Kitsap Business Assistance Center (KBAC). For partnership opportunities, contact her at 360-475-7786. For business counseling needs call the KBAC at 360-307-4220.). | 
