Statewide Manager
Ken Olson
(509) 944-0365

Western Washington Finance Manager
Chris Greenlee
(360) 725-4040

Research Manager
Spencer Cohen
(206) 256-6124

Region 1
Sally Harris
(206) 276-0059

Region 2
Kenny Spain
(509) 888-4671

Region 3
Terry Lawhead
(509) 777-1500

Region 4
Bob Sandoval
(509) 783-9201
Kraig Kushar
(509) 629-2517

Region 5
Brent Bahrenberg
(360) 482-1664

Region 6
Lynn Longan
(360) 427-2080

 
Start a Business
INCOME
$42,356
PATENTS
1.71
Per 1,000 workers
EDUCATION
30.3%
College Degree or Higher
UNEMPLOYMENT
9.3%
TOT. EXPORTS
$66.8B
 

It's quick and easy to start a business in Washington state. Our regional services staff are conveniently located in counties across the state to help you access the resources and tools you need to start a business.

Whether you want to register your business in state, learn about required documentation or assess workforce issues, you'll find many agencies ready to assist. Washington state is open for business!

 
Getting Started

Washington state provides lots of resources, tools and tips for entrepreneurs to help in setting up a new business:

Washington State Business Licensing

Once you have filed a Master Business Application to register your business, you will receive packets of information from these state agencies:

 
 
Hiring and Training Employees

Ensuring you can hire and retain the right people is critical to the success of your business.  Washington state provides numerous resources to business owners for assistance in the  search for training resources and ongoing support of a company's workforce.

The Washington State Employment Security Division provides prevailing wage rates per county across the state. This useful resource provides unemployment insurance rates and information on how Washington compares with other states on labor costs.

 
Business Resources
 
Business Counseling