News from KEDA

KEDA’s James Davis Earns Prestigious Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) Designation

Monday, April 20, 2026

The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) is proud to celebrate a major professional milestone for one of its own. James Davis, Economic Development Manager at KEDA, has earned the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), one of the most respected credentials in the field of economic development.The CEcD designation is a globally recognized mark of excellence, awarded to professionals who demonstrate a high level of expertise, experience, and commitment to the profession. Candidates must meet rigorous standards, including passing a comprehensive exam that covers key areas such as business retention and expansion, real estate...

Celebrating KEDA’s 2026 Economic Champions

Monday, April 13, 2026

Honoring leadership that has shaped Kitsap County’s economic strength—past, present, and future.The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) is proud to recognize three outstanding leaders as our 2026 Economic Champions—individuals whose dedication and vision have made a lasting impact on Kitsap County.These awards were presented during KEDA’s Annual Meeting & Economic Forecast on April 2, hosted at the stunning Clearwater Casino Resort, where community and business leaders gathered to reflect on the region’s progress and look ahead to its economic future.This year, we are especially honored to recognize John Powers, KEDA’s Executive Director from 2011 to 2020, whose leadership helped shape...

Turn Summer Crowds into Extra Income

Friday, April 10, 2026

Tap Into Summer: How to Earn More with Gig Work This SeasonThis summer’s international soccer tournament is expected to bring a surge of visitors to our region—creating a unique opportunity for those looking to earn extra income through gig work.From rideshare driving to short-term rentals and food-based businesses, increased demand means more chances to connect with customers and grow your earnings. Visitors will need transportation, places to stay, and convenient services—making this an ideal moment to step into flexible, on-demand work.To help local residents prepare, the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) has partnered with Olympic College to offer informational webinars...

The US Economy is Resilient. Risks Abound.

Thursday, April 09, 2026

Originally published in the Kitsap Sun, this article was updated with information from KEDA’s Annual Meeting and Economic Forecast on April 9. Joe Morrison, KEDA Executive Director morrison@kitsapeda.orgMy new favorite pastime is filling up my gas tank whenever it’s half full. That and monitoring prices per gallon like I never have before.Warning Signs Are Hard to Ignore Related, on Tuesday Goldman Sachs increased their probability of the US entering a recession this year to 30 percent. That same day Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics, said his firm’s model now forecasts recession risk at 49 percent, “pointing to stagnant retail sales,...

KEDA Releases Updated Kitsap County Economic Profile

Tuesday, February 10, 2026

NEWS RELEASEContact: Theresa MangrumCommunications & Events Managermangrum@kitsapeda.org 360-479-3712Kitsap County Economy Shows Resilience and Growth Amid Shifting Regional TrendsSILVERDALE, WA — The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA), in partnership with Western Washington University’s Center for Economic and Business Research, has released its Kitsap County Profile, revealing a robust and distinct regional economy. While neighboring King County continues to see high costs, Kitsap County has maintained a competitive edge with a significantly lower cost of living—17.9% lower than King County. This profile highlights the fact that Kitsap’s robust economy continues as it remains anchored by a solid public sector, with civilian government...

The Suquamish Tribe generates millions of dollars annually for Kitsap County

Wednesday, July 02, 2025

Reposted from the Suquamish Tribe news release:Suquamish, WA —The Suquamish Tribe continues to be a driving force in the regional economy, according to a new economic impact study conducted by renowned economist John B. Taylor. The study details the full scope of the Tribe’s contributions across Kitsap County and the state of Washington in 2023.Among the study’s key findings:The Suquamish Tribe is one of the top five employers in Kitsap County, with 1,240 employees working across tribal government and a wide array of business enterprises.$7.2 million is infused into the local economy each month—totaling more than $85.5 million annually—through payroll...

KEDA Releases 2024 Kitsap Top Employers List

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Public sector leads growth in Kitsap County workforce SILVERDALE, WA – The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA), in collaboration with the Center for Economic and Business Research at Western Washington University (CERB-WWU), has published the 2024 Kitsap Top Employers List, offering critical insight into the county’s employment landscape.As the most frequently accessed report on KEDA’s website, the Top Employers List is a valuable resource for public and private sector partners, site selectors, real estate professionals, and companies exploring expansion or relocation in Kitsap County. The 2024 data reflects total headcount and Full Time Equivalent (FTE) employment as of December 31, 2024,...

Trying to Navigate A Challenging Economy? We’re Here to Help

Tuesday, May 20, 2025

The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) was designed to support the vitality of our community.But how can we succeed at doing that when the economy is so turbulent? What tools can we offer our business owners to help them weather a difficult storm?Although the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) recognizes National Economic Development Week during the month of May, partnering with business owners to successfully ride the wave of economic change is a priority that never wanes. “The truth is, business owners should lean on their economic development organizations in any economy, but especially during times of significant and rapid change. There are...

KEDA: A Year of Milestones and Ambitious Plans

Monday, February 10, 2025

Reflecting on 2024 Achievements and carrying 'One Kitsap' forward in 20252024 was a significant year for the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance as the organization celebrated key milestones while laying the groundwork for future initiatives. Guided by our vision of Economic Vitality for All in One Spectacular Place, KEDA has emerged as a leader in regional economic development. With the launch of our ambitious One Kitsap five-year regional economic strategy last year, KEDA is charting the course ahead for a vibrant, thriving economic future in Kitsap. Reflecting on 2024 Achievements Last year, KEDA prioritized initiatives across business retention and expansion, workforce development, Kitsap’s...

Naval Base Kitsap: A Critical Economic and Strategic Asset

Thursday, November 21, 2024

Opinion: How to keep and grow defense-related economic impact in WashingtonJames Collins and Dave Zeeck to The Kitsap SunThe military presence in Washington State is critical for national defense and an overwhelmingly positive force for the state’s economy.To keep it that way the state needs a new strategy and approach – working at the governor’s direction – that focuses exclusively on protecting and growing defense-related economic impact.That’s a pivotal conclusion of a recently released independent economic impact analysis commissioned by the Washington Legislature.As the home to six major military installations, over 100,000 personnel, 185,000 military family members, and more than...

Kitsap County Planning Commission Makes Recommendation on Comprehensive Plan Update

Friday, October 18, 2024

PORT ORCHARD, WA —After a two-year-long public discussion of future growth and Kitsap’s future through 2044, the Kitsap County Comprehensive Plan Update is nearing a conclusion. After receiving public testimony on Sept. 24, the Kitsap County Planning Commission has made a recommendation regarding updates to the Comprehensive Plan, Capital Facilities Plan and Development Regulations. This recommendation is based on the draft documents released on Aug. 30, 2024, and amended as shown in their Findings of Fact.The amendments proposed by the Planning Commission considered public comments and adjusted tree canopy requirements, removed additional boundary line adjustment regulations, and made other changes.Their...

Just released! Kitsap Top Employers Report

Thursday, August 29, 2024

KEDA and Western Washington University Center for Economic and Business Research partner to produce Kitsap Top Employers ListSILVERDALE, WA – The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA), in collaboration with the Center for Economic and Business Research at Western Washington University, has released its 2023 Kitsap Top Employers List. The most frequently accessed report on KEDA’s website, this data is crucial for public and private partners, potential real estate investors, and companies considering expansion or relocation. The report's employment counts, reflecting total headcount and Full Time Equivalent (FTE) employment as of December 31, 2023, are based on primary data of what...

Embracing Nature: Parks and Recreation Fuel Economic Growth and Tourism in Kitsap

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

Discovering Kitsap Peninsula's Recreational TreasuresThe Kitsap Peninsula, renowned for its natural beauty and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, offers a unique blend of activities that attract tourists and support economic growth. Kitsap is a haven for those seeking adventure and relaxation, from its expansive shorelines to its lush parks and trails. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, the region promises many experiences highlighting the peninsula's treasures.A Paradise for Water EnthusiastsBoating and MarinasWith over 250 miles of accessible saltwater coastline, Kitsap is a dream destination for water sports enthusiasts. Boating, fishing, water skiing, sailing, scuba diving, kayaking, and paddle...

Western Washington University to Host 2024 Washington Economics Symposium on August 20

Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Tuesday, August 20, 2024 | 9:00am-4:30pmBELLINGHAM, WA – Western Washington University will host a panel of economic and financial literacy speakers as part of the 2024 Washington Economics Symposium on Tuesday, August 20 from 9:00am-4:30pm at Western Washington University. Teachers can earn 5.5 STEM clock hours for attendance.“Financial and economic education is facing an uphill battle in Washington State. The Washington Economics Symposium is your chance to help address this. With the recent failure of HB 1915, which would have made financial education a prerequisite for high school graduation, this conference aims to bridge the financial and economic training gap...

Global Cities Index Ranks Washington State out of 1000 largest cities worldwide

Friday, July 05, 2024

CHOOSE WASHINGTONWe usually don’t brag about any ranking that wouldn’t win us a medal at the Olympics. But we can’t resist bragging about Seattle being #6 in the world! When it comes to Economics, Human Capital, Quality of Life, Environment and Governance, we’re right up there with New York, London, Tokyo and Paris in the Global Cities Index ranking of the top 1,000 largest cities in the world.Being ranked #6 isn’t bad, considering 994 other cities—including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Melbourne and Zurich—are looking up to us, green with envy.What makes us stand out in the world? According to the...

MultiCare breaks ground on new neighborhood emergency department in Bremerton, expanding access to care

Monday, June 10, 2024

New ED will be first for MultiCare in Kitsap CountyPRESS RELEASE: TACOMA, Wash. — MultiCare Health System broke ground today on a new 10,500-square-foot neighborhood emergency department in Bremerton.The new facility, at 5900 State Highway 303 Northeast, will address the needs of the community and increase access to care.MultiCare Emergency – Bremerton will feature 12 rooms and on-site radiology services, including X-ray, ultrasound, and CT scans. The emergency department will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It will be staffed by board-certified emergency physicians. “There’s a critical need for more emergency medical services in Kitsap County,” said...

Charting Kitsap's Economic Path: KEDA's "ONE Kitsap" Five-Year Plan For Economic Vitality

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

In celebration of Economic Development Month, the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (“KEDA”) is embarking on a bold, ambitious journey to transform Kitsap County's economic landscape. Dubbed "One Kitsap," this five-year strategic initiative aims to deliver tangible results for the region through public and private partnerships. One Kitsap sets the stage for Kitsap's economic future with a clear focus on creating opportunities, fostering collaboration, and building sustainable capacity.Setting the Stage: The Need for One KitsapAs the region continues to evolve since the pandemic, KEDA recognizes the importance of aligning its efforts with Kitsap's unique economic development needs and opportunities. According to Joe...

Highlights from KEDA's Annual Meeting - Slides, video and photos now available!

Tuesday, April 09, 2024

View event photos here Video now available! Thank you to everyone who came out to our 2024 Annual Meeting & Economic Forecast event! Please join us in thanking our presenters and our premier sponsors Port Madison Enterprises, and hospitality sponsor Puget Sound Energy - they made this event possible!2024 Economic Forecast with Hart Hodges & James McCafferty, co-directors WWU Center for Economic & Business Research SPECIAL GUEST: Rep. Derek KilmerThe State of NBK: CAPT. John Hale, CO of Naval Base KitsapALSO SEE: Erin Leedham honored with Kitsap Economic Champion Award at KEDA 2024 Annual Meeting & Economic Forecast event.If you were in...

Erin Leedham honored with Kitsap Economic Champion award at KEDA 2024 Annual Meeting & Economic Forecast Event

Wednesday, April 03, 2024

The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) recently convened its highly anticipated 2024 Annual Meeting & Economic Forecast at the Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort. Attended by over 250 stakeholders, the event served as a platform for unveiling KEDA's ambitious 5-year strategic plan, electing new board officers, and recognizing outstanding contributions to the region's economic landscape.Highlights included an economic forecast by Western Washington University economists, Hart Hodges and James McCafferty, who codirector the Center for Economic and Business Research. Captain John Hale's, Commanding Officer of Naval Base Kitsap presented on The State of the Base, and KEDA Executive Director, Joe Morrison led...

Slide Decks Now Available! KEDA 2024 Annual Meeting & Economic Forecast

Thursday, March 28, 2024

Thank you to everyone who came out to the KEDA 2024 Annual Meeting & Economic Forecast Luncheon! Please take a moment to complete this BRIEF SURVEY and let us know how we did! event survey Slide decks are available now, event video and photos coming soon! Please join us in thanking our presenters and sponsors, Port Madison Enterprises and Puget Sound Energy, for making this event possible.Special thanks to Hart Hodges & James McCafferty, co-directors WWU Center for Economic & Business Research for an informative and concise economic forecast presentation!CAPT. John Hale, Commanding Officer of Naval Base Kitsap for his presentation “State of the...

Kitsap economic agency focused on impact over the coming five years

Monday, February 12, 2024

Joe Morrison Guest column to the Kitsap SunOne Kitsap - KEDA's Ambitious 5-Year Economic StrategyAround this time last year, the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) held eight meetings with over 60 stakeholders. We asked two questions of our community: One, what were the economic issues we were facing locally? Two, as the economic developer, where should our organization focus its efforts over the next five years to make the greatest impact?Discussions brought together a wide range of community stakeholders: Tribal leaders, small business owners, public officials, educators. They were joined by others from a variety of industries, such as financial...

2023: Strategic Planning paving the way for Kitsap's thriving economic future

Thursday, January 25, 2024

In a year that marked KEDA’s 40th anniversary as Washington State’s primary economic development organization for Kitsap County, we celebrate the resilience and progress of the past four decades, while focusing on the future, and prioritizing the needs of Kitsap County to ensure economic vitality for all its residents.Throughout 2023, KEDA's work concentrated on business outreach, catalyzing growth, fostering innovation, and cultivating an inclusive economic landscape. Our journey began with eight strategic planning sessions involving over 60 leaders and stakeholders from Kitsap County. Their valuable insights and perspectives served as the cornerstone for crafting KEDA's inaugural five-year regional economic strategy,...

News Release: Kitsap 2022 Top Employers Survey Results

Monday, August 21, 2023

The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) has again partnered with the Center for Economic and Business Research at Western Washington University to produce the seventh annual Kitsap Top Employers List. This primary research product is the most frequently accessed report on KEDA’s website. This data is utilized by public and private partners, potential real estate investors and companies considering expansion or relocation for inclusion in market analysis, industry cluster analysis, competitive analysis, and workforce analysis. Employment counts reflect total employee headcounts as of December 31, 2022. This year, the Top Employers list for Kitsap returned to its original form...

The Tribes of Kitsap County: Economic Development and Cultural Preservation

Friday, June 23, 2023

Kitsap County, located in Washington's Central Puget Sound Region, is not only known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant communities but also its rich Native American heritage. The Suquamish Tribe and the Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe, the original inhabitants of this land, have made significant contributions to the economic development and cultural preservation of the region. Even today, a deep-rooted connection exists between both tribes and Kitsap County's economic landscape. The Suquamish Tribe: Stewards of Tradition and Economic Growth The Suquamish Tribe, whose name, D'Suq'Wub, translates to "people of the clear salt water," has inhabited the...

KT adding 10 more buses to growing electric fleet

Monday, April 10, 2023

See post in Kitsap Daily News Kitsap Transit’s electric bus fleet is set to increase substantially after its board moved to authorize an $11.4 million purchase of 10 new battery-powered buses. The board voted April 4 to approve the purchase, which continues to align with the organization’s mission to transition its fleet further from the use of natural gas. “This will bring our battery-electric fleet up to a total of thirty buses, which is what we had envisioned at this point,” KT executive director John Clauson said. Half of the new additions are set to be utilized...

SAFE Boats Becomes 100% Employee-Owned Company

Monday, April 03, 2023

Bremerton, WA – SAFE Boats International, LLC (SBI) – a leading designer and manufacturer of aluminum watercraft ranging in size from 21 to more than 100 feet – has completed a transaction that transfers 100% of the company’s ownership to its employees. The SAFE Boats International Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) has acquired the company, completing the final milestone in a journey that started in late 2022. SAFE Boats has experienced dramatic growth since its beginning in 1996 and now has more than 250 employee-owners in two locations. The company has been honored with several significant contract awards,...

Happening now! Early Bird discounts for KEDA Annual Meeting & Economic Forecast

Monday, February 27, 2023

KEDA's Board of Directors invites you to join us March 30th from 11:30am- 1:00pm for our Annual Meeting and Economic Forecast Luncheon at the Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort & Conference Center. 11:30am - 1:00pm | Lunch service begins at 11am Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort & Conference Center REGISTER NOW Featuring economists Hart Hodges and James McCafferty, co-directors of the Western Washington University Center for Economic & Business Research who will present an economic forecast. Other highlights include: • Matchstick Labs Microbusiness Accelerator Cohort Spotlight • KEDA's 2022 Annual Report & 2023 Economic Strategy •...

Five words for Kitsap's economy in 2023

Tuesday, February 07, 2023

Joe Morrison, KEDA Executive Director for the Kitsap Sun My annual “five words about this year’s economy” column is ready... and it’s February. Sorry. At the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance we’ve been having long-term strategic plan discussions on the local economy recently. It’s taken me a bit of time to write this because I’ve been thinking about the column in light of those discussions. Let's get to it. I believe these five words will define our economic lives in Kitsap in 2023. The positive take away: They’re all pretty much tied to economic prosperity, although there are obstacles...

Q4 2022 Western Washington Real estate Market Update

Thursday, January 26, 2023

Real Estate Market News from Matthew Gardner, Windermere The following analysis of select counties of the Western Washington real estate market is provided by Windermere Real Estate Chief Economist Matthew Gardner. Regional Economic Overview Although the job market in Western Washington continues to grow, the pace has started to slow. The region added over 91,000 new jobs during the past year, but the 12-month growth rate is now below 100,000, a level we have not seen since the start of the post-COVID job recovery. That said, all but three counties have recovered completely from their pandemic job...

Doing the math on why buying in Kitsap matters

Friday, November 18, 2022

"Buy Close' is a thread weaving our business community together Aljolynn Sperber for the Kitsap Sun Do you know your neighbor’s name? Local business owners not only know their neighbors’ names, they also know their regular customers’ names, the names of their employees, their vendors, partners - on top of the names of those close to them. For local business owners, names, faces, and relationships are interwoven with everyday life. Almost anyone they cross paths with is like a neighbor. But local businesses are not woven into the community and economic development in Kitsap, they are the...

Fall Forum Video & Slides now available for viewing!

Tuesday, November 01, 2022

KEDA's 2022 Fall Forum: See Program here and View the Photo Gallery Thank you to all of our excellent presenters & panelists. Special thanks to our premier event sponsor, Puget Sound Energy and to partner sponsor, Greater Kitsap Chamber of Commerce. KEDA also thanks Debbie Gilman Photography and Quinn Brien Communications for photography and video services. See Slides: KITSAP'S ECONOMY; Opportunities, Challenges & the Future Martin Karl Vanags, Martin Karl Consulting See Slides: Inflation & Workforce - the Story So Far Anneliese Vance-Sherman, Ph.D., Regional Labor Economist at...

Fall Forum Presentations

Friday, October 21, 2022

View Sides From KEDA's 2022 Fall Forum KEYNOTE SPEAKER; Martin Karl Vanags, Martin Karl Consulting, will present KITSAP'S ECONOMY; Opportunities, Challenges & the Future Inflation & Workforce - the Story So Far, Anneliese Vance-Sherman, Ph.D., Regional Labor Economist at State of Washington Employment First Coalition - Panel: Building a Mighty Workforce WAV-C : Introducing Maritime Autonomy Video coming soon!

Inflation & Workforce, Kitsap's Future, Innovation and more on tap for KEDA Fall Forum

Thursday, October 06, 2022

Join us October 20th, from 1-5pm at the Kitsap Conference Center for a look at the opportunities & challenges shaping Kitsap's future economy. Get your tickets now Registration closes October 11th. KITSAP'S ECONOMY; Opportunities, Challenges & the Future KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Martin Karl Vanags, Martin Karl Consulting Martin Karl Vanags is an economic development professional of thirty-five years. He has worked in a wide range of roles in economic development, community development, city management and entrepreneurship. After years working in Illinois, Indiana and New York State, Vanags is leading efforts to lead economic developers through the...

A conversation on how communities prepare for economic challenges and opportunities

Thursday, September 29, 2022

It’s time we gathered again—to talk about Kitsap, its economy, community and what our shared future might look like. Joe Morrison, KEDA Executive Director for the Kitsap Sun After years of not holding our annual fall forum because of COVID, this year the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance is back in a big way. KEDA is holding Fall Forum: Level Up October 20 from 1-5 p.m. at the Kitsap Conference Center at Bremerton Harborside. We’ve got a lot planned: We’ll start things off with labor economist Anneliese Vance-Sherman, who will talk about the difficulties employers continue to face...

Early bird savings end Sunday! Register for Fall Forum now

Thursday, September 29, 2022

Join us October 20th, from 1-5pm at the Kitsap Conference Center for a look at the opportunities & challenges shaping Kitsap's future economy. KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Martin Karl Vanags, Martin Karl Consulting, will present KITSAP'S ECONOMY; Opportunities, Challenges & the Future REGISTER NOW ADDITIONAL TOPICS: INFLATION AND WORKFORCE: THE STORY SO FAR: To suggest that the past couple years were tumultuous would be a laughable understatement. Observations of unprecedented job losses and sky-high unemployment rates in 2020 were quickly replaced with labor shortages, record-low unemployment rates, and inflation in 2022. Now that some of the...

The Creative Economy: When People Thrive in Coworking Spaces

Thursday, September 22, 2022

Kitsap's thriving creative community & the spaces that make it work 2021 was established by the United Nations General Assembly as the International Year of Creative Economy for Sustainable Development, affirming the rising importance of creative industries in the global arena. What is the Creative Economy? According to UNCTAD- United Nations Conference on Trade and Development and UNDP - United Nations Development Program, the creative economy is “an evolving concept based on creative assets potentially generating economic growth and development”. Today, it happens to be one of the fastest growing sectors in regions of the...

Early bird registration for KEDA Fall Forum ends October 2nd.

Wednesday, September 21, 2022

Join us October 20th, from 1-5pm, live and in person at the Kitsap Conference Center, for a look at the opportunities & challenges shaping Kitsap's future economy. The forum will cover top of mind issues facing Kitsap's economy, including; inflation, workforce and inclusive hiring, and Kitsap's startup economy. Attendees will also be introduced to KEDA's newest initiative, WAV-C, Washington Autonous Vehicle Cluster. Featuring nationally known speaker Martin Karl Vanags, of Martin Karl Consulting, who is an expert in best practices for business attraction, business retention, entrepreneurship, resilient communities, circular economies.He will share his perspective on the future of Kitsap's economy,...

KEDA Announces Three New Hires in Economic Development, Innovation

Monday, September 19, 2022

NEWS RELEASE (KEDA) KEDA Hires Three New Employees September 19, 2022 Contact: Theresa Mangrum 360-479-3712 mangrum@kitsapeda.org SILVERDALE, WA – The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (“KEDA”) has hired three new team members: One in economic development addressing county-wide issues in business retention and expansion, and two to fully staff its maritime autonomy and innovation program, “WAV-C.” James Davis KEDA Economic Development Manager Rochelle LeMay WAV-C Business Development Manager Seth Abelson WAV-C Program Manager ...

KEDA Releases Results of Top Employers Survey

Monday, August 01, 2022

KEDA and Western Washington University Center for Economic and Business Research partner to produce Kitsap Top Employers List for 2021 SILVERDALE, WA -For the sixth year the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) has again partnered with the Center for Economic and Business Research at Western Washington University to produce the Kitsap Top Employers List. The Top Employers List is the most frequently accessed report on KEDA’s website. This data is utilized by public and private partners, potential real estate investors and companies considering expansion or relocation for inclusion in market analysis, industry cluster...

KEDA Economic Development Manager: Position Posting

Monday, June 27, 2022

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Full-Time Position • $80k - $87.50k Apply to Position Responsible for all business retention, expansion and client-facing activity of the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance. This includes working with employers to understand the challenges and opportunities enabling growth and retention outcomes, managing a variety of economic development programs and metrics, and administering KEDA’s Procurement and Technical Assistance Subcenter (“PTAC”), our government contracting program. Ensures all of KEDA’s work achieves stated quantifiable goals with high quality, reporting on such to internal and external stakeholders regularly. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Business Development. Responsible for...

KEDA Voices: Could a slowdown in the economy actually help Kitsap right now?

Monday, June 27, 2022

2022 is half over. Behind us sits a robust economy. In front, one that might be more tepid. Joe Morrison, KEDA Executive Director for the Kitsap Sun According to a recent Washington Post article, consumer spending makes up more than two-thirds of the U.S. economy. Recent analyses in the piece by both Barclays and Charles Schwab find that restaurant, travel-related and services spending is starting to weaken. So at a recent economic development event I asked some Kitsap CEOs this related question: With a potentially slowing economy, what opportunity or challenge do you see...

KEDA Voices: How will you secure your future lifestyle?

Tuesday, June 14, 2022

David Beck, Vice President at One Strategic Capital, Guest columnist for KEDA & the Kitsap Sun Many of you had parents or grandparents who came home to an America fundamentally changed, after World War II. The United States was emerging as the preeminent industrial power of the world. There were plenty of jobs, good opportunities for advancement and many corporations offered pensions for their workers. Employees were thrilled to have a pension plan, and it was easy to see why. The company your grandfather worked for handled everything. They funded the plan and managed the investments until such time...

Your business counts! Participate in our Top Employers Survey

Wednesday, June 01, 2022

KEDA has again partnered with the Center for Economic and Business Research at Western Washington University to produce the Kitsap Top Employers List. The Top Employers List is the most frequently accessed report on KEDA’s website. This data is utilized by public and private partners, potential real estate investors and companies considering expansion or relocation for inclusion in market analysis, industry cluster analysis, competitive analysis, and workforce analysis. Employment counts reflect permanent full-time employees as of December 31, 2021. Take the survey now

Olympic College added $204 million to local economy according to economic impact study

Wednesday, May 25, 2022

Getting an education at Olympic College pays off – not just for students, but also for alumni, businesses, and the entire region. Olympic College News Release May 25, 2022 That’s according to a recent economic impact study, which found that Olympic College added $204 million to the economies of Kitsap and Mason counties in fiscal year 2019-20, making up 1.3% of the region’s Gross Regional Product. The study, which was conducted by Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI), considered a number of factors, including college operations spending, students who relocated to the area to attend...

Kitsap's housing market is expanding — but will it ever be enough?

Tuesday, May 03, 2022

Joe Morrison, KEDA Executive Director, for the the Kitsap Sun Gratitude, they say, is a best practice for daily life. When it comes to daily life in Kitsap, I’m grateful I own my home, something becoming harder and harder to do. For much of 2022 and 2021, home values have grown aggressively across Kitsap, often between 1.5 to 2 percent monthly. To put that in perspective, if home values grow at 2 percent every month, that translates to an annual increase of 26.8 percent. That’s according to Skylar Olsen, principal economist for financial technology startup Tomo, who spoke...

New Grants Coming Soon!

Tuesday, May 03, 2022

COVID-19 Emergency Funding for Small Businesses Over the last year, Washington State has provided small businesses throughout the state with more than $500 million in grants to address the economic outfall of COVID-19. This effort continues as we look to new funding strategies for businesses in the process of rebuilding and recovering. COMING – Working Washington Grants: Round 5 The Washington State Legislature has allocated a new round of grant funding for small businesses affected by the pandemic. $70 million was appropriated by the legislature for the next round of Working Washington Grants: Round 5, with $45 million...

Kitsap Economic Champions honored at KEDA 2022 Annual Meeting & Economic Preview Event

Thursday, April 07, 2022

KEDA ANNUAL MEETING AWARDS RECOGNIZES KITSAP ECONOMIC CHAMPIONS SILVERDALE, WA -- The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (“KEDA”) held a virtual annual meeting on March 30th, presenting its 2021 Annual Report, 2022 priorities and plan, electing officers and voting on new and renewing directors to the KEDA board. Featured speaker and housing economist, Skylar Olsen, Tomo Economics, and Western Washington University economists, Hart Hodges and James McCafferty, presented economic data and offered insights on the direction of the economy. KEDA's 2022 ECONOMIC CHAMPIONS Awarding Economic Champion honors is...

KEDA Annual Meeting Presentations

Thursday, March 31, 2022

KEDA's 2022 Annual Meeting is over but you are in luck! You can view the Annual Report and Annual Plan video by clicking here. View Economic Preview - The Economy in 20 Minutes video by clicking here View Featured Presenter: Skylar Olsen, Tomo Economic by clicking here Presentation slide decks are available for viewing by clicking the images below:

Submissions for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023’s Congressionally Directed Spending - Deadline April 5

Tuesday, March 29, 2022

Submissions for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023’s Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) program are being accepted now. Please note the Senate deadline is April 5; House of Representatives is April 1. Using a provided form, public, Tribal and non-profit entities may submit a request. For FY 2023, there are no funding limitations, and a cap will not be set. NOTE: Those making a submission should be ready to share budget breakdowns and a valid reason for the amount. Office of Senator Patty Murray - FY23 Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) Open...

KEDA's Shop Local Campaign Honored with 2022 WEDA Economic Development Award

Tuesday, March 08, 2022

Kitsap Shop Local campaign honored by Washington Economic Development Association with Economic Development Award for COVID-19 Economic Response & Recovery SILVERDALE, WA– The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) was recently recognized by the leaders of the Washington Economic Development Association (WEDA), during their 2022 Winter Conference in Olympia, WA, for outstanding achievement in the category of: Economic Development Award for Economic Response & Recovery for their #Shop.Eat.Spend.Kitsap social media campaign. Bruce Kendall, WEDA Awards Committee Chair who also serves as President & CEO of the Economic Development Board for Tacoma-Pierce County said, “We received impressive nominations from...

State's $500,000 grant launches innovation, aspiration in developing Kitsap tech industry

Tuesday, March 08, 2022

Joe Morrison, KEDA Executive Director for the Kitsap Sun As I write this, the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) is in the final stages of signing a $500,000 contract. We are set to receive a two-year grant to launch an innovation cluster in autonomous and unmanned water vehicles. Let’s break it down a little — and talk a little bit about economic clusters, entrepreneurship and innovation, and why it’s important communities and economies are aspirational. Economic clusters date back to 1890, when English economist Alfred Marshall first described them as a "concentration of specialized industries in particular...

Sign up now for KEDA's 2022 Virtual Annual Meeting & Economic Preview

Thursday, February 17, 2022

KEDA's ANNUAL MEETING March 30th, 9:30-11:30 am Sign up at https://kitsapeda.me/2022 REGISTER NOW NO FEE, VIRTUAL EVENT Keynote Speaker: Skylar Olsen, Tomo Networks Senior Director & Principal Economist at the $70-million backed fintech and home buying startup Tomo, & former senior principal economist at Zillow Group, Olsen will break down the red hot housing market, rising interest rates and its ripple effects on the regional economy. Housing | Inflation | Cost of Living | Global Instability and more. Also learn about: Statewide initiatives, business assistance, economic challenges KEDA's Focus Areas...

SharedWork program conserves payroll costs and retains jobs

Thursday, February 03, 2022

Hospitality businesses can conserve payroll costs and retain jobs with the SharedWork program. "Nothing good happens fast" is true in many circumstances, but not for the hospitality industry. Customer demand for speedy service is met with workforce shortages and workplace mandates that bring new challenges for business leaders in 2022. "We're going to be in this for a few years. There are not any workers sitting on unemployment anymore," said Anthony Anton, President and CEO of the Washington Hospitality Association in a January podcast. "While the industry typically has a slower January, use this time...

Breaking Down the Numbers - Kitsap's Changing Economy

Tuesday, February 01, 2022

Commentary from KEDA Executive Director Joe Morrison morrison@kitsapeda.org Here at KEDA, we just updated our Kitsap Community Economic Profile in partnership with Western Washington University’s Center for Economic and Business Research. In this publication we traditionally favor accuracy over speed, so we’re mostly using 2020 data for our economic analyses, as it’s the most recent year for which we have robust, reliable information in house that can inform us across a variety of metrics we track annually. Given that we’re living in rapidly changing times due to the pandemic, I’ll...

Quincy Square on 4th Public Meeting - City of Bremerton

Friday, January 14, 2022

Quincy Square Public Meeting - January 20, 2022 Quincy Square is a community driven reconstruction project that will revitalize 4th Street between Pacific Avenue and Washington Avenue. When complete the street will be able to transform into a pedestrian plaza for events. The plan includes lighting, landscaping, pedestrian amenities, parking, and unique keyboard paving. The Square’s name, theme, and art installations honor Quincy Jones, an internationally recognized musician and producer who spent formative years in Bremerton. To learn more about the project, including details about the schedule and design please join us at a public meeting on...

SAFE Boats wins Ukraine-linked patrol boat order

Wednesday, January 05, 2022

https://www.marinelog.com/shipbuilding/shipyards/shipyard-news/safe-boats-wins-ukraine-linked-patrol-boat-order/ As tensions over Russian threats to Ukraine mount, SAFE Boats International, Bremerton, Wash., has been awarded a contract under a U.S. security assistance program that includes a focus on enhancing Ukraine’s capacity to defend its territorial waters and that could see a possible Foreign Military Sale to Ukraine of up to 16 Mark VI patrol boats worth an estimated $600 million. According to a December 30, 2021, Department of Defense announcement, SAFE Boats has now been awarded a $25,556,452 firm-fixed-price modification to a previously awarded contract (N00024-21-C-2201) that exercisesoptions for construction, outfitting, reactivation, and training of two Mark VI...

Predictions for the coming year — including more COVID in the news

Monday, January 03, 2022

Joe Morrison (morrison@kitsapeda.org) is the Executive Director of the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance. Shoot him an email for feedback on the predictions, or join KEDA for our Kitsap Digital Hour at 11 a.m. on January 13, on the topic of Business Credibility and Credit with Jenefeness Tucker. Sign up at http://kitsapeda.me/KDH

2022 Is Just Around the Corner! Circle these dates on your calendar!

Thursday, December 16, 2021

The ETS Has Dropped! It’s a “Shot or Test” Plan.

Friday, November 05, 2021

BY MONICA BLACKWOOD reposted from West Sound Workforce Employers and company leadership groups across the United States have spent the last two months waiting for this. Speculating on what would be included. Listing out question after question. Implementing their own company policies based on the announcement from President Biden on September 9, 2021 when he issued a vaccine mandate on all companies with 100 or more employees. Yesterday was the day the OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) dropped, providing more insight into what employers need to do to help make sure they provide a safe workplace with...

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