SBDC

Experienced employee grabs reins as owner with SBDC support

By Hope Belli Tinney, Washington Small Business Development Center EVERETT, Wash. – Carrie deKubber has held just about every position at Bob’s Burgers and Brew over the past 20 years, but thanks to the Washington Small Business Development Center, she added a new title this year — owner.

Sept. 27-28: Free cybersecurity workshops for small businesses

By Hope Belli Tinney, Washington Small Business Development Center SEATTLE, Wash. – More than 2,700 businesses in Washington state reported cyberattacks in 2016 to the FBI’s Crime Complaint Center. Those attacks totaled over $25 million in losses, putting Washington in the top 10 among states for illegal hacks.

Small business owners visit Japan, Korea, see export opportunities

By Hope Belli Tinney, Washington Small Business Development Center MOSES LAKE, Wash. – Nine Washington small business owners selling snack bars, organic flour, eyewear, processed hay, museum exhibits, glacier water, and heaters fueled by waste oil recently returned from a nine-day, business-to-business trade visit to Korea and Japan with sales and high expectations.

Secret ingredient to catering business — a good lease agreement

By Hope Belli Tinney, Washington SBDC RENTON, Wash. – You might think delicious and beautifully prepared food is key to a successful catering company, and you would be right. But Kenneth Rogers, co-owner and general manager of Rain City Catering, will tell you the secret to his recent success is a good lease.

Cascades hostel draws success from advice, varied clientele

By Hope Belli Tinney, Washington SBDC WINTHROP, Wash. – Imagine heading up to the Methow Valley to ski, hike, bike, fish or read in the shade of a Cottonwood tree for as little as $25 per night.  Welcome to North Cascades Mountain Hostel owned by the husband and wife team of Paul Smotherman and Audrey […]

Beer-themed bakery grows with upcycled grains

By Hope Belli Tinney, Washington SBDC RENTON, Wash. – When Marley Shain Rall wanted to open a retail store to sell beer-themed baked goods, she decided to run her idea past an expert advisor at the Washington Small Business Development Center (SBDC) who was encouraging – and skeptical.

Yoga business grows, flexes to deliver corporate classes

By Hope Belli Tinney, Washington SBDC FEDERAL WAY, Wash. – When successful small business Three Trees Yoga determined to offer classes in the workplace, it needed to learn how to attract companies, rather than individuals, as clients. An ongoing relationship with the Washington Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provided support the expanding yoga business could […]