🌟 July Jumpstart: Building Better Business 🔧
Center for Inclusive Entrepreneurship — July 2025 Newsletter
At CIE, we believe entrepreneurship is a tool for resilience and lasting change. Our Start Simple business training returns this August to support aspiring entrepreneurs ready to take their first step. We’re also recruiting new Board Members to help guide this mission and expand access to inclusive, values-driven entrepreneurship.
In addition, we’re celebrating two powerful stories of purpose-driven entrepreneurship: Gabriela Faúndez, whose upcycled accessory brand Birdcraft Studio evolved into the systems-changing ReFabrica initiative, and Arturo Montoya, who launched an appliance repair business to support his family with help from CIE’s Start Simple program.
🌿 Turning Textile Waste into Opportunity
Gabriela Faúndez, founder of Birdcraft Studio, is redefining sustainability by transforming textile waste into unique, small-batch hair accessories and gifts. Thanks to CIE’s Circular Economy Challenge, supported by the BECU Green Equity Initiative, Gabriela upgraded her equipment, expanded her product line, and co-launched ReFabrica, a groundbreaking program that tackles textile waste and creates inclusive job opportunities for immigrant women.
Her story is a powerful example of how circular economy entrepreneurship can create lasting environmental and social impact through creativity, community, and values-driven business. Click the link below to learn more about Gabriela and Birdcraft Studio on our blog.
🔧 From Necessity to Entrepreneurship
For Arturo Montoya, starting a business wasn’t about ambition- it was about providing for his family. After years of limited income in traditional jobs, Arturo joined CIE’s Start Simple course, offered in Spanish, received one-on-one advising, and a startup loan through Washington State Department of Commerce’s Small Business Resiliency Network (SBRN). With this support, he purchased his first work vehicle, launched a thriving appliance repair business, and now plans to hire his first employee and expand into related services.
Thanks to SBRN programs and the culturally competent, personalized support offered by CIE, Arturo is no longer trapped in low-wage jobs. He’s building something of his own, for his family, for his future, and for his community.
🤝 Leading Change: Join CIE’s Board of Directors and Make a Lasting Impact in Rural Washington
CIE is currently seeking community-driven leaders to join our Board of Directors.
As a board member, you’ll work closely with our leadership team to guide the organization’s growth, uphold our mission, and ensure financial sustainability. Your expertise and vision will directly influence the support we provide to underserved entrepreneurs in rural Washington.
Serving on CIE’s Board provides an opportunity to have a meaningful impact on the future of small businesses in rural communities. By joining the board, you’ll be part of a team working to foster economic development and support entrepreneurs who are driving change.
💡Have A Business Idea? Start Simple!
If you have an idea for a new business, our Start Simple Course is the perfect way to get started. In just four two-hour group sessions, you’ll learn key business fundamentals to assess the feasibility of your goals. The course includes free one-on-one homework assistance from a Business Advisor and a final assessment of your Start Simple Plan. Available in English and Spanish, these sessions are designed to help you quickly move from idea to action.
Visit our website to learn more!
Become a Donor!
By offering all our programs at no cost, we ensure that financial constraints do not hinder the dreams of those seeking to build generational wealth and fuel local development in their rural communities.
Join us in making a meaningful impact by donating today!
