Programs

BizFair
Join us each year for a day of networking, learning and business growth. BizFair is the longest running all-government- and non-profit-run small business fair in Washington State. It 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.

Cannabis Social Equity Program
The Cannabis Social Equity Program was developed following the passage of  SB 5080, creating a process for the State Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) to award cannabis business licenses to those identified as disproportionately affected by the War on Drugs in Washington state. Commerce offers a web-based on-demand training resource, and is responsible for awarding grants for technical assistance, mentorship and grant funding to reimburse eligible expenses so applicants can open a successful cannabis retail store.

Northwest Economic Development Course
The annual Northwest Economic Development Course is the premier event offering intensive training in the basic concepts, methods, and strategies of local economic development. 2025 marks the 35th year of this course that has graduated thousands of practitioners throughout the country. A diverse and experienced faculty provides an excellent blend of theory and practice. Course content is oriented toward practical application. Practitioners new to the field as well as those with experience seeking new ideas and tools are encouraged to attend.

ScaleUp
Based on the highly successful program run by the Center for Business & Innovation in Thurston County, this 35-hour intensive is designed to provide small business owners with additional skills in financial mastery, operational efficiencies and marketing. Instructors guide owners through a proven curriculum that will help them improve profitability, control costs and grow their business with confidence.

Global Entrepreneurship Month (GEM)
Held every November, Global Entrepreneurship Month is a series of events, webinars, competitions, panels, showcases and learning opportunities geared to entrepreneurs or future entrepreneurs who are interested in starting their own businesses.

Retirement Marketplace
This employee or employer program allows owners and workers to plan for retirement through 401(k) and IRA retirement plans that are vetted by the state and offered by private plan companies.

Microenterprise Assistance
Commerce sub-contracts with the Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA) to provide microenterprise development associations across the state with the resources, access to capital and tools they need to help the state’s smallest business (five employees or less) seize new opportunities for growth and profitability.