The Center for Inclusive Entrepreneurship (CIE) is excited to announce that we have received funding from the Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA) to continue supporting small businesses throughout Washington State. This funding is part of WSMA’s $2 million grant program awarded to 46 nonprofit organizations dedicated to strengthening small businesses in both rural and urban communities.
Expanding Opportunities for Child Care Entrepreneurs
Following the success of previous cohorts, CIE was proud to relaunch our specialized training program designed to help aspiring child care providers launch and sustain their businesses. With support from WSMA, this initiative provided critical business training and resources for individuals passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families—while building sustainable livelihoods.
Developed in partnership with Rural Development Initiatives (RDI) and Unidos Nueva Alianza, the Start Your Child Care program focused on empowering child care entrepreneurs from historically marginalized communities. The program equipped participants with the skills, knowledge, and support needed to create high-quality child care businesses that serve their local communities. A total of 12 participants successfully completed the program.
WSMA’s Commitment to Supporting Small Businesses
The Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA) awarded grants to 46 nonprofit organizations—including CIE—as part of its ongoing mission to support small businesses with five or fewer employees. These funds, made possible through the Washington State Department of Commerce, are helping expand access to business training, technical assistance, and financing opportunities for historically marginalized communities, including BIPOC, veterans, LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, and others.
This initiative supports businesses across a wide range of industries, including small-scale manufacturing, food services, technology, agriculture, and child care. By building capacity and fostering economic sustainability, WSMA and its partner organizations—including CIE—are driving meaningful change in Washington’s local economies.
For more information about CIE’s child care business training program, upcoming workshops, or how we support small business entrepreneurs, contact us at communityenterprise@cie-nw.org.
For additional details about WSMA’s grant program, contact Lisa Smith, WSMA Executive Director, at (360) 480-8048 or lisa@wamicrobiz.org.
About the Center for Inclusive Entrepreneurship
The Center for Inclusive Entrepreneurship (CIE) is dedicated to fostering inclusive economic growth by supporting underserved entrepreneurs and small business owners. Through personalized advising, educational resources, and strategic partnerships, we help create resilient, community-driven businesses across the Pacific Northwest.
