Commerce-sponsored mentorship program creates strong relationships that spur business growth
“I now have a mentor and friend for life.”
Jason Haase is the Chief Executive Officer of Meadow Creature, a Vashon-Island based company that manufactures Meadow Creature® Broadforks, and the Avalon Cider Press. His company’s products have been the most recommended and heralded as the most durable of their kind in the U.S.
Earlier this year, Meadow Creature was poised for tremendous growth and that’s when the Washington State Department of Commerce, Office of Economic Development and Competitiveness (OEDC) stepped in. Jason’s company was among the first to participate in a pilot business leader mentorship program, sponsored by OEDC’s Small Business Training and Education Center. Its mission is to foster mentorship, expand professional networks, and accelerate business development through shared insights and real-world experience.
The Program spanned six months and concluded in late spring.
Skill-building beyond expectations and wildest dreams
“It was incredibly helpful to be paired with someone who truly understands the challenges business owners face,” Jason said. While engaged in the AAE cohort, Jason’s team secured a national retail contract, a milestone he credits to his mentorship experience. “The skills I gained during this program exceeded my expectations beyond my wildest dreams. My company gained one hundred times more value than we ever anticipated.”
The program was led by the Edward Lowe Foundation, the nation’s premier foundation dedicated to championing entrepreneurship. The AAE is designed for companies entering second-stage growth — those generating $1 million or more in annual revenue and employing between six and 99 workers. Commerce’s Small Business Training and Education Center helps these firms expand by offering an array of tools, resources and connections like AAE.
Four Washington entrepreneurs were selected to serve as the first-ever representing the state in the American Academy of Entrepreneurs (AAE) mentorship program. They were joined on this six-month experience by other participants from around the country.
Washington was proudly represented by four entrepreneurs—two experienced mentors and two rising mentees. They included:
Mentors:
- Deborah Tuggle, CEO of Bite Me Cookies, Seattle, WA
- Rich Fowles, CEO of Scratch and Peck Feeds, Burlington, WA
Mentees:
- Shamema Stone, CEO of OP Electric, Snohomish, WA
- Jason Haase, CEO of Meadow Creature, Vashon Island, WA
Small Business Training and Education Center Manager Lynn Longan, along with Small Business Program Manager, Susan Herr, guided those who were selected to represent the state.
“Washington state is proud to have been a part of this groundbreaking program,” said Lynn. “The results speak volumes about the power of mentors and their positive influence on entrepreneurship. Part of our mission to strengthen communities includes identifying ways to support the growth of our state’s dynamic business leaders.”
Throughout the program, Susan remained in close contact with the participants, tracking progress and offering support as needed. Their behind-the-scenes efforts ensured that program participants were well-positioned to succeed.
“These aren’t just professional partnerships,” said Susan. “They’re lasting bonds between people who understand the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. That’s what makes programs like this so powerful, and why Commerce is committed to championing them.”
From nominating candidates to celebrating final outcomes, this team’s dedication highlights the agency’s long-standing commitment to lifting up Washington businesses — both in policy and in practice.
More than fresh-baked cookies: One bakery offers a fresh start
“From the start, this wasn’t just about cookies. It was about people,” said Bite Me Cookies CEO Deborah Tuggle, who served as one of two AAE program mentors from Washington State. “Bite Me Cookies became a haven for immigrants and refugees, many of whom spoke little or no English. The company didn’t just offer jobs — they offered a fresh start. ESL classes are held on-site, during paid hours, because dignity and access shouldn’t come at a cost. Workers are encouraged to grow, to learn, to move on when ready — because success isn’t measured by retention, but by transformation.”
When a critical oven broke just before the busy season, the future of the business teetered on the edge. But through a Department of Commerce grant, they were able to replace the oven just in time, saving production and protecting the livelihoods of those who rely on the bakery. It was a powerful reminder that community investment works, and that programs like these aren’t just red tape—they’re lifelines.
Now, with nearly three decades behind them, Bite Me Cookies stands as more than a business — it’s a testament to risk, resilience and heart. The founder often sees the children of former employees all grown up, sharing stories of their parents’ time at the bakery. In those moments, she knows this was never just about cookies. It was always about people. And now she is sharing her perspectives with others.
How can we help your business today?
Lynn and Susan see the AAE program as a way to give Washington State second stage business owners a competitive advantage. “Our goal is to strengthen communities by energizing businesses with an intense entrepreneurial spirit,” said Lynn. “It offers access to experts, analytics and best practices that are usually only available to the largest companies.
The Small Business Training and Education Center offers accurate, actionable information to help build and expand a successful business in Washington State. Visit MyStartup Washington for more tools, resources, education, training and support tailored just for small businesses, whether you’re new to entrepreneurship or are an experienced pro.