News Release: KEDA Secures $80k WSMA Grant Support Small Business Growth in Kitsap

Kitsap Economic Development Alliance Awarded Grant to Support Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs

Kitsap County, WA - Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) has been awarded an $80,000 grant from the  Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA) to support small businesses and entrepreneurs in Kitsap County. As one of 46 organizations selected statewide, KEDA will use this funding to expand the reach of the Matchstick Lab Micro Business Accelerator, ensuring local business owners have access to the resources they need to grow and succeed.

Now in its third year, the Micro Business Accelerator is doubling in size, welcoming 24 early-stage small business owners. The program will also offer dedicated classes in both the North and South ends of the county to improve accessibility. Participants receive mentorship, education, and networking opportunities, and applications for the 2025 cohort are now open.

Other distinguished recipients of this grant include NCW Tech Alliance, RAIN Catalysts, Impact Washington, WTIA, and the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, highlighting KEDA’s standing among Washington’s leading organizations supporting small business development.

“This award underscores KEDA’s commitment to securing essential resources that drive economic growth in our community,” said Joe Morrison, Executive Director of KEDA. “By bringing funding like this to Kitsap, we’re ensuring that local entrepreneurs have the support, education, and capital they need to thrive. The Micro Business Accelerator is just one example of how we are delivering on that mission.”

Matchstick Lab Executive Director, Alanna Imbach, emphasized the program’s impact, stating: “We’re making it easier than ever for entrepreneurs across Kitsap to connect with a meaningful network of peers and advisors. This program isn’t just about business—it’s about people. It’s about equipping founders with the tools, connections, and support they need to build businesses that enrich Kitsap and create new opportunities for everyone.”

Funding provided by the Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA) thanks to a grant made by the Washington State Department of Commerce and secured by the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance.  Awardees include Entrepreneur Support Organizations (ESOs), Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), Small Business Resiliency Partners (SBRN), Chambers of Commerce, Associate Development Organizations (ADOs), and other groups serving entrepreneurs in rural communities. This includes businesses owned by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), veterans, people with disabilities, returning citizens, LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, and many others.

For more information contact: James Davis Economic Development Manager Kitsap Economic Development Alliance davis@kitsapeda.org 360-377-0180

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About Kitsap Economic Development Alliance:

Founded in 1983, the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance 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. For more information, visit www.kitsapeda.org