Network Your Way to Success! 😎
I remember feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty when I first started my website design business in 2023. As a new business owner, I knew that building strong connections within the community would be crucial to my success. By harnessing the power of networking, I was able to secure clients, meet referral partners and grow my professional community. It took me a while to learn the ins and outs of each group and event and how they function, but once I got a feel for it, I knew where to put my time and attention.
Starting a new business can be both exciting and daunting. You're navigating unknown territory surrounded by unfamiliar faces and a whole new landscape of opportunities. But fear not! This outline will help you build a success in Kitsap through our power network of amazing resources.
In Kitsap County, you'll find a vibrant and supportive business community that welcomes newcomers with open arms. I did the hard work of trying all the networking groups for you, and now I want to share what I learned in the last year with you so that you can get a head start growing your small business.
First, We Must Ask, Why Network?
Before we dive in let's talk about why networking is so valuable.
Building Strong Relationships: Attending events can help you build meaningful connections with potential customers, partners, and mentors who can support and advocate for your business.
Local Support and Collaboration: Fellow business owners and community members are more likely to collaborate, share resources, and provide referrals, which can boost your business growth.
Enhanced Visibility and Trust: Regularly participating in local events increases your visibility and establishes your presence in the community. When people see you actively engaged, they're more likely to trust your business and become loyal customers.
Guide to this post
Regional Chamber of Commerce Offices
Greater Kitsap Chamber of Commerce:
Event: Monthly Members Luncheon (guests may attend)
A comprehensive organization offering membership benefits, events, advocacy, and resources for businesses of all sizes.
Bremerton Office: 409 Pacific Avenue Bremerton WA 98337
Silverdale Office: 10315 Silverdale Way NW Silverdale WA 98383 (Kitsap Mall)
Poulsbo Chamber of Commerce:
Event: Monthly Members Luncheon (guests may attend)
A local chamber focused on promoting Poulsbo businesses, hosting events, and providing resources for members.
Office: 1911 Viking Way, Poulsbo, WA 98370 https://poulsbochamber.com/
South Kitsap Chamber of Commerce:
Events: Monthly Members Luncheon (guests may attend) + GreenDrinks
A chamber dedicated to supporting businesses in South Kitsap, offering networking opportunities, advocacy, and resources.
Office: 1200 Sidney Ave, Port Orchard, WA 98366
Networking Groups and Organizations
BNI – Business Network International:
A global business networking organization with many local chapters, providing opportunities for members to refer business to each other. Chapters are located all over the region learn more about the various chapters, meetings times and locations at the website below. https://bnipnw.com/en-US/index
Live Well Kitsap:
A wellness and health focused organization in Kitsap County focused on connecting other businesses through programs, events, and resources. Networking events are open to the public for a small fee and are free for members of Live Well Kitsap
Greendrinks:
Social gatherings for professionals interested in sustainability and environmental issues. Hosted in Silverdale and Bremerton. Hosting locations change regularly, so check here to find upcoming events. Bremerton GreenDrinks: https://www.facebook.com/bremertongreendrinks Silverdale GreenDrinks: https://www.facebook.com/SilverdaleGD
South Kitsap GreenDrinks: https://chamber.skchamber.org/events/calendar/
Mary West Networking Group:
A professional networking group focused on building relationships, supporting each other's professional growth, and giving back to the community.
Polka Dot Powerhouse:
A global network of professional women entrepreneurs and business owners who come together to connect, collaborate, and inspire each other.
Restarted recently the Kitsap Chapter
Business Associations
Downtown Bremerton Association:
A nonprofit organization dedicated to revitalizing and promoting Downtown Bremerton, offering resources and events for businesses and residents.
280 4th St, Bremerton, WA 98337
Charleston Business District:
A local business association focused on promoting the Charleston neighborhood and its businesses.
Manette Business District:
A business association dedicated to promoting the Manette neighborhood and its businesses.
Kitsap Builders Association:
A trade association representing the construction industry in Kitsap County, offering networking, education, and advocacy.
1000 NW 10th St, Bremerton, WA 98337
Coworking Spaces
Coworking spaces are great places to network because you are surrounded by other small business owners and operators, plus coworking spaces tend to host events specifically for small business owners.
Spark Commons:
A co-working space in the heart of Downtown Bremerton offering office space, a conference room, and mailboxes, and a low-priced unlimited access membership for just $125.
258 4th Street Bremerton WA
Vibe Coworks:
A co-working space providing a collaborative environment for individuals and businesses. Hosts multiple events monthly for entrepreneurs on many different topics from bookkeeping to leadership to scaling, there is always something to learn.
19225 8th Ave NE, St 201
Bremerton Workspace:
A co-working space offering flexible workspace and resources for entrepreneurs and professionals.
1310 Bertha Avenue NW Bremerton, WA 98312
Office Xpats:
Located on Winslow on Bainbridge Island this co-working space offering flexible workspace and a variety of pricing options to fit your needs.
403 Madison Ave, Suite 240, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Small Business Development Resources
Kitsap Economic and Development Alliance:
An organization focused on economic development in Kitsap County, providing resources, assistance, and advocacy for businesses.
601 Wheaton Way, Bremerton, WA 98312
Kitsap Community Resources:
A nonprofit organization providing a variety of social services and resources to the community.
1013 Pacific Ave, Bremerton, WA 98312
Small Business Development Center Washington:
A statewide network of centers offering business consulting, training, and resources to small business owners.
Conclusion
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your calendar, put on your networking shoes, and dive into the exciting world of Kitsap County's business community. With so many incredible resources and events at your fingertips, you're sure to find the perfect opportunities to connect, collaborate, and thrive.
Remember, networking isn't just about exchanging business cards; it's about building relationships that can last a lifetime.
Happy networking!
Getting out there can be a little scary! If you need a buddy to attend an event, email me. I would be happy to be your networking wing women. Dina@idenadesigns.com
Thanks for reading!
I aim to help small businesses and entrepreneurs grow their website traffic and build a digital presence that sets them up for long term success!
Hi, my name is Dina Liberatore, and I am the founder and lead designer at Idena Desings. I live and work in Bremerton Washington, focusing on business in Kitsap and Pierce County. I love helping business owners find peace in the storm with well implemented workflows and organized project mapping, taking them from brainstorming to launch seamlessly!
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