KEDA secures $80k WSMA grant to help small businesses & entrepreneurs grow their businesses

KEDA is thrilled to announce that our application to the 2025 Washington State Microbusiness Accelerator grant program has been approved! 

The Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA) has approved $2 million in small grants to 46 nonprofit organizations to help business owners strengthen their business skills, innovate and access financing to create jobs and grow local economies in every region of the state.  This program is funded through the Washington State Department of Commerce. 

This funding supports the return of  Matchstick Labs  2025 Microbusiness Accelerator! The program is specifically crafted to accelerate the entrepreneurial endeavors of small business owners who have powerful new business ideas.  Turn-around time for grant applications is very brief  with applications being accepted now through February 28th. 

Now in its third year, the Micro Business Accelerator is doubling in size, welcoming 24 early-stage small business owners, and offering dedicated classes in both the North and South ends of the county to increase accessibility and impact. 

The 2025 Micro Business Accelerator will provide:

• One-on-one and small group mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs and business experts
• Educational workshops on business planning, marketing, finance, operations, and more
• Networking opportunities with fellow small business owners and area leaders 
• Essential business assets including a refined business plan and marketing materials
• A powerful support system to navigate the challenges of growth

Who Should Apply?

The Matchstick Lab Micro Business Accelerator welcomes entrepreneurs from all industries, including retail, food, creative industries, trades, technology, agriculture, and professional services.

Past participants have included businesses ranging from craft wine and artisanal foods to art, entertainment, early education, and retail, as well as smart electric vehicle charging, marine electrician services, backflow systems, and more.

The program is designed for:

• Aspiring business owners ready to launch
• Early-stage entrepreneurs looking to refine, grow, and scale 
• Innovators in any industry, from creative services to technology, agriculture, and trades
   

Apply by February 28th!

The program is free to apply for, free to participate in, and there is no equity exchanged.

Entrepreneurs who have historically faced barriers to business ownership, including BIPOC entrepreneurs, people with disabilities, veterans, women, LGBTQ+ people, and returning citizens are strongly encouraged to apply.Applications for the 2025 Micro Business Accelerator are now open. The deadline to apply is February 28, 2025. Selected applicants will be notified in early March.

For more information, and to apply, go to www.matchsticklab.co/programs/micro-business-accelerator/

Funding for the Matchstick Lab micro-business accelerator cohort has been provided by the  Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA) through a grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce secured by the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance, facilitated b partnership with Kitsap Bank, Kitsap Community Resources BE$T Program, Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA), Rice Fergus Miller, Spark Commons, and Vibe Coworks, the no-cost, 13-week program provides hands-on mentorship, expert-led workshops, and an unmatched network of peers and community business leaders.