KEDA secures WA State Microenterprise Assoc grant to support entrepreneurs - Apply by Feb 5th

Now accepting applications! Matchstick Lab a dynamic, high-touch entrepreneurial hub at Vibe Coworks, especially crafted for startup founders and small business owners from across the West Sound region 

Apply now

Vibe Coworks and Kitsap Bank announced the launch of Matchstick Lab—a dynamic, high-touch entrepreneurial hub for current and emerging startup founders and small business owners from across the West Sound region. 

In partnership with the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA), Matchstick Lab kicks off February 15 with a five month-long program specifically crafted to accelerate the entrepreneurial endeavors of small business owners who have powerful new business ideas. 

The program is open to all current and aspiring business owners, with applications being accepted through midnight Sunday, February 5. Entrepreneurs who have traditionally been excluded from business ownership opportunities and resources are especially encouraged to apply, including those who identify as Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), people with disabilities, veterans, women, LGBTQ+ people, and returning citizens.

A maximum of ten current or aspiring startup founders and small business owners will be admitted to the inaugural micro-business accelerator cohort.

Through the program, entrepreneurs benefit from:

• highly personalized technical assistance
• one-on-one and small group business coaching
• coworking membership + private office access at Vibe Coworks
• access to a series of professional training workshops
• marketing assets, including professional headshots and a business intro video
• a supportive peer community
• access to follow-on opportunities that may include capital, talent development, and storytelling resources

“At Vibe, we believe in the power of entrepreneurship and bold new ideas to build stronger, healthier, more equitable communities,” said Vibe Coworks Founder, Alanna Imbach. 

“As a community bank that is committed to growing our local economy and supporting entrepreneurs, Kitsap Bank is proud to partner with Vibe Coworks on this innovative program,” stated Kitsap Bank President and Chief Operating Officer, Tony George. 

“Through Matchstick Lab, entrepreneurs have access to a business ecosystem that supports the growth of innovation right here in our backyard.”

Funding for the first Matchstick Lab micro-business accelerator cohort has been provided by the Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA) together with Kitsap Bank, thanks to a grant made by the Washington State Department of Commerce and secured by KEDA.

For more information, and to apply, go to: vibecoworks.com/community/matchstick-lab

The program complements a growing number of available resources in support of local entrepreneurs, including: the Center for Inclusive Entrepreneurship, Greater Kitsap Chamber Growing Greater Businesses Grant, Kitsap Community Resources BE$T program, PNW Mission Acceleration Center, Western Washington University Small Business Development Center, WTIA Startup Series at Vibe Coworks, and more.