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Shop local and support small businesses

Fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy products, baked goods, and handmade crafts: America’s farmers markets are certainly all of these things. But they’re also much more than meets the eye. Farmers markets nourish our communities by creating jobs, connecting producers directly with consumers, and cultivating strong local, regional, and national food systems. According to the most recent National Farmers Market Managers survey, there are more than 8,000 farmers markets across the U.S. — and their impact can’t be overstated. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reports that farmers markets contribute $9 billion to the U.S. economy each year.

Find a market near you and support your local small businesses:

Interested in becoming a small business owner and serving your community? Learn about SBA resources that can help you start, grow, and fund your new venture

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Makieda and Reno Hart sit on a log, a beach and body of water is in the background

Makieda and Reno Hart, owners of Sgt. Hart’s BBQ Sauce

Family-owned business finds success with local farmers’ markets

Makieda Hart launched her own business in 2018 by sharing her family’s secret sauce at local farmers’ markets and food festivals. Today, Sgt. Hart’s BBQ Sauce is a growing business with a developed product line. Read more about this veteran-owned family business and their small business journey.

Full Story

Low-interest disaster loans available to San Juan County businesses impacted by Spring Street Fire

Small businesses and private nonprofit organizations economically impacted by the Spring Street Fire that occurred April 6, 2022 may be eligible. Beginning on August 2, the SBA established a Virtual Business Recovery Center to answer questions about eligibility, the disaster loan program, and the application process. Additionally, the Washington Small Business Development Center (WSBDC) is offering free, personalized business counseling to help affected businesses in their recovery. For more information, read the full announcement here:

News Release

Mark your calendars for BizFair!

Join SBA on Saturday, Sept 24 for the 26th Annual Washington State BizFair, hosted by SCORE.

Each fall, the small business ecosystem in WA comes together to put on BizFair, the longest running all government and non-profit run free small business fair in Washington State. It is an opportunity for thousands of current and aspiring small business owners to:

Be inspired by a keynote speaker that has successfully traversed the small business path and shares their story of perseverance. Last year it was Joe Fugere of Tutta Bella sharing his story of Resilience and Thriving.
Meet with mentors, advisors, trainers, educators, fellow small business owners and entrepreneurs.
Learn from savvy business experts who will share their knowledge and real-life experiences.
Connect with federal, state, and local government agencies for assistance related to business and/or getting contract opportunities.
Find out how non-profit organizations can help you with funding, legal support, and more.
Network with Chambers of Commerce, Economic Development Authorities, and statewide Business
Associations.