Kitsap EDA's Frequently Asked Questions

The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) is an organization focused on growing the economy, businesses, opportunities, jobs and talent across all of Kitsap.

Our mission is to facilitate healthy economic growth and investments that support livable, resilient communities, fueled by innovation and the diverse people and businesses of Kitsap.

KEDA is a Public/Private/Non-Profit 501(c)(6) corporation with an associated 501(c)(3) educational charity. Our work is made possible by your investment and donations.

No. KEDA has investment partners. We’re an umbrella organization, enabling dialogue between the diverse stakeholders that drive Kitsap forward.

We bring together business and government, financial and educational institutions, defense and small businesses, entrepreneurs and employers, to come together and identify how to create greater economic opportunity for all.

That’s an easy one. Investing in KEDA means investing in Kitsap’s future and helping expand economic opportunity across our region.

Your support strengthens an organization dedicated to growing our employer base, helping existing businesses succeed, and ensuring Kitsap remains a place where businesses and communities can thrive.

KEDA works to strengthen Kitsap County’s economy by supporting business growth, attracting new investment, and building partnerships across the community. All of this advances our vision of Economic Vitality for All — In One Spectacular Place, creating greater opportunity for businesses, workers, and communities throughout Kitsap.

Yes. Whether you’re big or small, investment in KEDA starts with as little as $500. Every dollar and investor is appreciated and valued. Explore all of our investment levels by clicking here.

What are the benefits of becoming an investor in the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance?
As a KEDA investor, you’re joining a network of leaders committed to strengthening Kitsap’s economy and supporting local business success.

All investors receive access to:

• Valuable networking and connections with business leaders, public officials, and community partners across Kitsap County.
• Discounted admission to KEDA events, including signature gatherings like the Annual Economic Forecast and Fall Forum.
• Recognition as a KEDA investor, with visibility in our community and through KEDA marketing and communications materials.

Beyond these benefits, your investment helps power the work that keeps Kitsap’s economy growing and thriving
 

Yes. Through a partnership of business and government, KEDA provides free customized services to business clients in a confidential manner on challenges related to:

• Market Research and Analysis
• Site Selection
• Government Bidding & Contracting
• Exporting
• Capital Formation
• Workforce Hiring & Training
• Taxes, Regulations & Permitting
• Advanced Manufacturing & Industry Certifications
• B2B and G2B Referral Networking

Kitsap ranks high in economic development indicators such as:

• Educational attainment and skilled workforce
• Development of intellectual property
• Per capita economic output
• Median household incomes
• Unmatched quality of life

Our businesses thrive and prosper in a highly competitive marketplace. Click here for the latest economic indicators. Learn more about key indicators: Economic Trends in Kitsap County, WA

Is it expensive to do business in Kitsap?
As part of the state of Washington, Kitsap County offers an extremely favorable tax environment for business and citizens.

When it comes to the best places to make a living based on income taxes, cost of living, unemployment, Washington State consistently ranks as a Top 10 Best States for Business.

Yes!  KEDA is an APEX ACCELERATOR and part of the Washington APEX Accelerator network.

We offer no-cost, confidential, one-on-one technical assistance for all aspects of selling to federal, state, and local governments, including:

• Regulations
• Certifications
• Marketing
• Proposal review

Kitsap APEX clients also benefit from the expertise of two retired Navy contracting officers who are passionate about helping businesses navigate the complexities of government contracting. Learn more.

The Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP) mission is to execute the Navy’s once-in-a-century investment to reconfigure, modernize and optimize four aging naval shipyards, including the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PSNS & IMF), into new modern facilities that will serve our Nation into the future.

Absolutely. NAVFAC NW aims to award 42% of work to Small Business in FY25.

Click here for a current list of contract opportunities related to SIOP.

Does the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance offer support for small businesses?
Absolutely. Kitsap values our entrepreneurs and innovators, who shape the world around them.

Here you’ll find: 

• Co-working spaces
• Maker Spaces
• Premium business resources through the Kitsap Regional Library
• Kitsap Small Business Development Center
• Kitsap Community Resources B$ST Program
• Government Contracting Assistance
• ScaleUp
• Creatives Academy
• Washington’s Business Startup Playbook
• Choose Washington

Plus, our Entrepreneurship and Innovation Committee brings together many different stakeholders including entrepreneurs, small businesses, ecosystem builders, supporters, and community. Together, they work on initiatives making Kitsap a great place for building a business and attracting new technologies.

There are multiple commercial properties and land available in Kitsap including the Puget Sound Industrial Center in Bremerton, which contains about 3,700 acres planned for industrial development and use. Click here for more on Kitsap’s Industrial Assets.

Additionally, the US Department of Commerce has designated more than 500 acres of land in Kitsap County, at the Port of Bremerton’s industrial park and at Bremerton National Airport, as part of Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) 216.

You can also explore our property search tool by clicking here.

Discover more about Kitsap County's unique labor market information including monthly unemployment and nonfarm employment statistics.
Visit our website for more Economic Trends in Kitsap County, WA