Executive Director's Letter

The number one request for small businesses seeking help from SIMBA is financial support - whether that is filing state B&O and sales taxes, preparing for federal taxes (fyi: that daily Indaba coffee run is likely NOT a business deduction); and finding capital to grow and maintain your small business. The capital discussion usually starts with lending, but I would say 99% of for-profit businesses ask about grants. Sadly, 99% of small businesses are never going to receive a grant to grow their business, so you need to be ready to grow that business the "old-fashioned way": sales, business loans, and the investment of business partners, friends, and family.

Trust me, we wish we could give or find you a grant for your small business, but that is not the nature of grants. Grants are given by the government or private foundations. Grants almost always require your business to be a non-profit with 501(c)(3) status; sometimes, you can use an existing 501(c)(3) as a fiscal sponsor (SIMBA is now offering this service) to get around the requirement. There is the rare "for-profit" grant in areas of research, technology, and occasionally the arts. That is the exception and not the rule. That's why this month in our "Grant & Loan" opportunities section, we are highlighting two unique Washington State Department of Commerce-backed lending products that have revenue-based repayment - meaning you pay more when you make more and vice versa. I recommend you check those out, and you reach out to us to help get you loan ready if it's time to grow. Waiting on a grant is like waiting for a new Rihanna album - it just doesn't feel like it's going to happen (Anti came out in 2016).

Warm regards, Robin

*SIMBA Staffer Alexis McLaughlin and Board Treasurer David Borrelli took to the streets of Moses Lake and Ephrata to meet with small business owners and connect about resources and training events.*

SIMBA Updates

SIMBA’s 2024 Annual Report is Here

We’re excited to share SIMBA’s 2024 Annual Report, a reflection of a year rooted in transformation, collaboration, and impact. From strengthening our internal operations to expanding outreach and engagement across the region, this past year was all about building deeper connections and stronger foundations.

Take a look at our team, the work we’ve accomplished together, and the many ways we’ve shown up for our local businesses and communities. Inside, you’ll find highlights of our programs, partnerships, advocacy, and the momentum we’re carrying forward into 2025.

Read Full Report

Meet Our Members

SIMBA members have invested in making our community a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous place in which to Live Local! Learn more about becoming a SIMBA Member!

**Sustaining Member Spotlight:** Vexing Media is a Spokane-based creative agency offering web development, design, video, and digital marketing to help brands tell their story and grow online.

Supporting Member Mentions: Live From Somewhere, Spocleaning Maids, Belle Mira, Terry Buffington Foundation, Northwest Mediation Center, and The Law Office of Julie Watts.

Grant & Loan Opportunities

In our ongoing commitment to supporting the success of the local businesses we serve, SIMBA actively seeks out grant opportunities that align with their needs! We can assist in navigating the application process, offering guidance and support every step of the way. If you want help applying for any of these grants, simply complete this short intake form. Grants are RARE for for-profit businesses outside of research fields, so make sure to apply for grants that may be available.

Washington’s Revenue-Based Financing Fund

Grow America CILF – Ajust Loan

Grow America’s Ajust Loan provides larger, growth-focused capital for working capital, equipment, or machinery, with repayment terms that rise and fall with your revenue.

Loans from $101,000 – $500,000 (up to $1M in some cases)
3-year term | Fixed multiple of 1.24x (approx. 14.27% APR*)
Repay 20% of monthly revenue (min. $1,000/month)
For WA-based, for-profit businesses in operation 3+ years, with 500 or fewer employees

Denkyem Co-op – Scale Loan

Ideal for entrepreneurs looking to cover immediate needs or fuel early-stage growth, Denkyem’s Scale Loan is flexible, supportive, and rooted in community.

Loans from $10,000 – $100,000
3-year term | Fixed multiple of 1.10x (approx. 6.29% APR*)
Repay 5% of monthly revenue (min. $100/month)
Personalized support from a Black-owned CDFI with deep ties in King County
For WA-based, for-profit businesses in operation 12+ months (2 years preferred), with 500 or fewer employees

Learn more and apply at the Revenue-Based Financing Fund program website.