North Puget Sound Business Builder Expo

Welcome to the Business Builder Expo, the premier event in the North Puget Sound for entrepreneurs looking to kickstart, scale, or grow their businesses!

Presented by Coastal Community Bank, and in partnership with the Port of Everett and North Sound Media, the Business Builder Expo is designed to empower you at every stage of your entrepreneurial journey. Whether you are just starting out, in the early stages of your venture, or ready to take your business to new heights, this event is for you.

Why attend?

The Business Builder Expo offers targeted panel discussions, workshops, and resources to help entrepreneurs address challenges at every phase of business development.

From crafting your business idea, navigating the challenges of launching a startup, or seeking strategies to scale your existing business, you'll find targeted content and resources to meet your needs.

General Admission Includes:

• Access to Full Activities
• Complimentary Lunch
• Networking Opportunities

Discount available for chamber members and EASC investors. Contact Info@EconomicAllianceSC.org for Promo Code.

Resource Fair

Explore booths from a wide range of essential business resources including lenders and financial institutions, marketing agencies, business advisors, government agencies, legal and compliance services, and more!

Participating organizations include:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Panel Discussions and Workshops

You've Licensed Your Startup. What's Next?

This panel will guide new business owners through the crucial steps after licensing, focusing on tax obligations, labor regulations, and compliance requirements. Experts from the Department of Revenue and Labor & Industries will provide insights on managing your tax responsibilities, navigating employment regulations, and avoiding common pitfalls that can trip up new businesses.

• Rick Bushman, Business Advisor, Washington Small Business Development Center
• Angela Linville, Revenue Agent, Washington State Department of Revenue
• Maggie Hammond, Assistant Small Business Liaison, Washington State Department of Labor & Industries

Business Model Canvas

Learn how to use a dynamic tool to turn your great idea into a new business. Our experts will teach you how to use the Business Model Canvas as an alternative to the traditional business plan.

• John Stiegler, Mentor, SCORE

Alternative Financing

Securing financing is a critical step in launching a new business. But traditional loans may not always be the best option. Join us for a discussion on alternative financing methods tailored for early-stage entrepreneurs.

• Lisa Smith, Executive Director, Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA)
• Elizabeth Rusnak, Senior Vice President and Senior Loan Officer, Northwest Business Development Association
• Ngan Phan, Loan Officer, Business Impact NW

Understanding Cashflow & Projections

This workshop will offer attendees a comprehensive understanding of cash flow dynamics and financial projections. Learn how to create accurate cash flow forecasts, identify potential cash flow pitfalls, and develop strategies to maintain healthy finances for your growing business.

• Jennifer Shelton, Business Advisor, Washington Small Business Development Center

Selling Products and Services Internationally

Thinking about expanding your business globally? During this panel, our experts will share resources available to help small businesses enter global markets, strategies for managing risk, and tips for navigating international logistics. Whether you’re new to exporting or ready to scale your global operations, this session offers practical guidance tailored to small business owners looking to succeed on the international stage.

• Julie Johnson, Export Development & Outreach Specialist, Washington State Department of Agriculture
• Mitsu Saito, Regional Director Office of Small Business, Western Region, Export-Import Bank of the United States
• Rich Brinton, President, BBD International
• John Brislin, International Trade & Finance Specialist (Export Finance Manager), Small Business Administration (SBA)

Government Contracting & Certifications

Learn how to leverage government contracts to fuel your business growth. During this panel discussion, experienced professionals will teach you how to navigate the procurement process and share their tips for success in the public sector.

• Cara Buckingham, Advisor, Washington APEX Accelerator
• Curtis Bennett, Assistant Director of Business Development, Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE)
• Anastassia Hunte Gardner, Research & Outreach Program Specialist, Procurement, Inclusion and Equity (PIE) program, Washington State Department of Enterprise Services (DES)

AI for Small Business Marketing

Learn how to supercharge your marketing efforts with Artificial Intelligence (AI) during this informative discussion. Our experts will share best practices to help you reach your target audience and optimize marketing campaigns by integrating AI into your business strategy.

• Wendy Poischbeg, Interim President & CEO, Economic Alliance Snohomish County
• Pablo Colindres Moreno, Marketing Communications Manager, Economic Alliance Snohomish County

Tax Savings Strategies for Small Businesses

During this workshop, our experts will teach you how to minimize your tax burden and maximize your profits through strategic tax planning. From deductions and credits to retirement plans and entity structuring, learn how to take advantage of tax breaks and incentives to keep more money in your pocket.

• Trevor Dubois, Senior Manager, Moss Adams
• Dan Gaffney, Partner, Moss Adams