Summit Business Financial Education Program: Partnering for Success!

Owning your own business. It’s a dream come true for many entrepreneurs. But being a small business owner is a challenge!

Trying to figure everything out on your own can be overwhelming. What if I don’t have the money to start or grow my business? Is there a trusted source I can turn to for ongoing financial education?

They’re tough questions, but the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) has partnered with area financial institutions and business-led organizations to help you find the right answers.

Removing Roadblocks

Kitsap Credit Union's Summit Business Financial Education Program was designed in partnership with KEDA, the Greater Kitsap Chamber, and the Kitsap Small Business Development Center to empower and support local entrepreneurs. How? By providing them with access to financial and operational knowledge through a series of expert-led workshops designed to re-position challenges as opportunities to grow, not roadblocks to success.

The program covers a wide range of topics to help participants strengthen their financial literacy, enhance their business operations, and build a foundation for long-term success.

Past workshops have included a representative from the Small Business Administration (SBA), who provided insights on SBA 7(a) and 504 loan programs, speakers from the Washington Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) and the Department of Revenue, who broke down compliance requirements and B&O taxes, a Cybersecurity Liaison from Western Washington University, who offered practical guidance on protecting business data and systems, and a Certified Business Advisor from the Kitsap Small Business Development Center, who shared valuable tax tips tailored to small business needs.

The Summit Business Financial Education Program is also completely free.

“We believe that financial education should be accessible to everyone, regardless of income or business size. By removing financial barriers, we can help more business owners access the tools and insights they need to grow and succeed,” said Megan Murphy, Kitsap Credit Union’s Director of Business Services. “What makes this series especially powerful is that it’s delivered in collaboration with strong community partners, including KEDA, the Kitsap Small Business Development Center, and the Greater Kitsap Chamber. By working together, we’re able to offer business owners access to expert guidance, networking opportunities, and practical tools to help them open, grow, and thrive. It’s a community-driven effort to empower the businesses that power our region.”

Community Development

Kitsap Credit Union is also committed to community development and enhancing the social and economic well-being of underserved individuals in the areas it serves. As a designated Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Kitsap Credit Union leverages federal and private sector investments to broaden its offerings and deepen its impact, particularly in communities where access to capital and financial education is limited. For example, a recent grant awarded to Kitsap Credit Union focuses on supporting women-owned small businesses. Through this funding, Kitsap Credit Union is expanding its services to promote economic growth and resilience by providing essential capital to women entrepreneurs, especially those with limited credit history or business experience, helping them start, grow, or revitalize their ventures.

Partnering Together 

Regardless of the need, Kitsap Credit Union, KEDA, and all of our business-led organizations and financial institutions are committed to partnering with businesses of all sizes to overcome any hurdles that present themselves.

“Every business owner experiences challenges, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed at times. What’s important is knowing that there are people and resources available to help,” said Murphy. “We’re here for you and we’re ready to connect you with tools, expert guidance, and a supportive network to help you navigate the ups and downs of business ownership. Whether it’s through the Summit Series, one-on-one financial consultations, or connections to trusted community partners, we’re committed to walking alongside you on your journey.”