Managing finances as a small business owner can be daunting. Whether you’re navigating tax regulations, managing payroll, planning for growth, or dealing with unexpected expenses, a clear financial strategy is essential. A financial advisor can provide valuable guidance, but picking the right
How Seattle Small Businesses Can Leverage AI to Thrive
Seattle’s small business community is full of innovation—but with rising costs and a tight labor market, owners are constantly searching for ways to do more with less. Fortunately, artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just for big tech companies. It’s quickly becoming a powerful tool for small
How Small Business Owners in Seattle Can Take an Accelerator Program
Despite a challenging economy and a national slowdown in new business applications, Seattle’s startup ecosystem continues to thrive—powered by a unique mix of tech innovation, access to venture capital, and one big advantage for founders: no state income tax. With more than 6,000 startups calling
New Business Applications Slow in Seattle
Seattle, once a thriving hub for entrepreneurial ventures, has seen a marked decline in new business applications in recent years. In 2022, there were just 7,710 new business applications, a sharp 42% drop from the pre-pandemic annual average of 13,305. This slowdown reflects broader challenges in
Seattle’s Financial District: Challenges and Opportunities for SMBs
Seattle’s financial district continues to face significant challenges, as high office vacancy rates and rising commercial real estate loan defaults create uncertainty for the city’s downtown core. According to recent data, Seattle ranks among the most vulnerable financial districts in the US,
Obtaining a Business License in Kirkland
Starting a business in Kirkland, Washington, is an exciting venture, but before you open your doors, it’s essential to secure the necessary legal permissions. A business license is not just a formality; it’s a legal requirement to operate within the city limits or provide services to Kirkland
What is an Employer Identification Number (EIN) & How to Apply
If you're starting a business, you may have come across the term EIN, or Employer Identification Number. But what exactly is it, and how does it fit into your business operations? Whether you’re a sole proprietor just starting out, or an established business scaling up, understanding the EIN is
How SMB Owners Can Stay Ahead of Taxes Without Losing Focus
When you first launched your business, every dollar mattered — and you probably handled everything yourself. From sales to marketing to late-night invoicing, it was all in your hands. Fast forward a few years, and now you’re managing a team, juggling clients, expanding your offerings, and… still