FAQ's -Find your answers here

Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to Kitsap County! Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about the economic ecosystem of our area, ranging from general inquiries about who we are and what we do to the abundance of support services for businesses in our amazing, Pacific Northwest community.

For more detailed information, please contact us at info@kitsapeda.org or 360-377-9499. 
General Information
What is the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance?
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.

How is the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance funded?
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.

Is the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance a membership organization?
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.

Why should I invest in the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance?
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.
Are there different investor levels?
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.
Why should I invest in the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance?

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.
Doing Business in Kitsap County
Does the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance provide business services?
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

Government Contracting
KEDA serves as a Washington APEX Accelerator subcenter, helping businesses navigate the often complex world of selling to government agencies. Through this program, businesses can receive no-cost, confidential, one-on-one technical assistance to help them compete for federal, state, and local government contracts.
Our advisors provide guidance on all aspects of government contracting, including:
Understanding government regulations
Navigating required certifications
Developing effective marketing strategies for government buyers
Proposal review and bid preparation

Best of all, you do not need to be a KEDA investor to receive this assistance. Our goal is to help more Kitsap businesses access contracting opportunities and grow through government procurement.

Can the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance help me bid on government contracting jobs?

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.

What is the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program?

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.

Can small businesses bid on Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program projects?
Absolutely. NAVFAC NW aims to award 42% of work to Small Business in FY25.

Where can I bid on Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program projects?
Click here for a current list of contract opportunities related to SIOP.

Where can I find the latest news and information about SIOP?

Click here for the most current information about SIOP.

Can the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance help me bid on government contracting jobs?

Doing Business in Kitsap
What are the location advantages of doing business in Kitsap County?
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.

Is it easy to get a building permit in Kitsap?
Yes. The building permit process in Kitsap County is extremely business friendly. Environmental regulations are consistent with federal EPA laws with no local hidden surprises. 
Small Business Support
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
ChooseWashington

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. 
Site Selectors
What commercial or industrial properties are available in Kitsap County?
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.

Where can I find out information about Kitsap’s workforce?
Discover more about Kitsap County's unique labor market information including monthly unemployment and nonfarm employment statistics.