By Jacquie Goodwill
The longest running all-government- and non-profit-run small business fair in Washington State.
The journey to starting your business often feels like a long and winding road trip. There seems to be so many proverbial stops along your route before you can post your “open” sign. Whether you have a physical or virtual storefront, The Office of Economic Development and Competitiveness (OEDC) at the Washington State Department of Commerce and the Office of Regulatory Innovation and Assistance (ORIA) offer helpful guidance. BizFair is just one of the ways to create a shortcut to launch or grow your successful business.
It’s your one-stop-shop to expand your network, gain valuable insights and propel your business forward. There are typically two or three BizFair events in Washington State each year.
The next BizFair is September 20 at Pierce College in Puyallup
BizFair offers a day filled with networking, workshops and opportunities to grow your business. Connect with local entrepreneurs, learn from industry experts and discover new ways to take your business to the next level.
To get your business started, there are inevitably a series of forms to fill-out-and-file, agencies to visit and a route to follow depending on your specific industry. ORIA and the Small Business Liaison Team (SBLT) offer a way to help guide you through Washington State’s regulations and the steps to opening or growing your enterprise.
The service is FREE (yes, free!) and the team is ready to help you navigate your route. Those periodic surprises that may happen along the way seem like getting a flat tire at just the wrong time. Events like BizFair, and those who produce them, like OEDC, ORIA and the SBLT, can serve as your personal roadside assistance crew to help get you on your way.
Soon enough, you’ll be on your way and open for business.