Thurston County Target Zone Business Startup Grant

The Target Zone Business Startup Grant aims to address economic inequity by investing in the areas and people most vulnerable to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant supports new business startups in targeted industries, communities, and populations.

Geographic Scope: Thurston County, Washington - specific target zones

Eligibility Criteria:

• New business startups
• Applicants must meet specific criteria:
  • Industry requirements (varies by program)
  • Housing cost or income-related criteria
  • BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) business owners prioritized
  • Businesses in economically vulnerable areas

Program Focus:

• Supporting entrepreneurs from underrepresented communities
• Addressing economic inequity
• Supporting recovery from COVID-19 pandemic impacts
• Diverse business development across various industries including:
  • Restaurants and food service
  • Construction and trades
  • Professional services
  • Cultural and community organizations
  • Retail
  • Health services

Partner Organizations:

• Thurston Economic Development Council (EDC)
• Thurston Strong (community coalition)
• BIPOC Business Community Liaison

Notable Awardees (2022 round - $1M awarded to 10 businesses):

• AMB General Contractor, LLC (construction)
• ASSHO Cultural Community & Job Training Center
• Bloom and Brew Café
• Clean N Fix
• Ikonic Wings, LLC
• Jerk an' Tingz, LLC
• Kawaii Donut House
• Miss Priss Lash and Brow Academy
• Revival Motors and Coffee Co.
• VBNC Physical Therapy PLLC

How to Apply

Application process details vary by grant cycle. Contact the Thurston Economic Development Council for current application information.

Key Requirements:

• Meet industry, housing cost, or income-related criteria
• Business plan or proposal
• Personal/business background information
• Demonstration of economic vulnerability or BIPOC status

Timeline: Application cycles appear to occur periodically (previous cycle in 2022)