We’re halfway through winter, and the Community Reinvestment Program is ramping up its programming throughout Washington. We’re excited to share what’s moving forward and where there are opportunities to connect with the work.
Economic Development Investments
Looking back at the first six months of this new biennium (July – December), we are excited to share the early successes of our economic development investments. The partnership between Commerce, Economic Security Department (ESD), Washington Workforce Association (WWA) and the state’s 12 workforce development councils is supporting communities throughout the state.
Economic Security for All (EcSA) Business Support
CRP’s EcSA Business Support program funds equity-focused business navigation and business grants for startup, recovery, and growth. This includes equipment, operations and workforce-related costs.
From July to December 2025, EcSA Business Support:
- Engaged with 1,703 businesses
- Awarded 72 businesses grants, totaling over $350,000
- 94% of the businesses who received awards are by-and-for Black, Latine, Native American, Asian, Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian communities
Career Accelerator Incentive Payments
Participants enrolled in CRP’s Career Accelerator program earn milestone-based incentive payments (up to $1,000 per month and $10,000 total) for pursuing their career goals. Supported milestones include but are not limited to making progress with trainings, attaining credentials, getting a new job and wage increases.
From July to December 2025:
- 271 EcSA participants received over $177,000 in incentive payments
- 100% of participants are working on personalized career plans to reach self-sufficiency
- 67% of participants identify as Black, Latine, Native American, Asian, Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian
Matched Investment Savings Account Program (MISA)
CRP’s Matching Investment Savings Account Program (MISA) helps people save toward an approved asset and receive a 1:1 match up to $10,000. Funds can be used for education, transportation, housing or business investment. Financial education and coaching are required before accessing matched funds.
From July to December 2025, CRP’s MISA program has:
- Engaged with 201 participants
- Invested over $63,000 in MISA funds
- Established 14 new MISA accounts
- 73% of participants identify as Black, Latine, Native American, Asian, Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian
New grants for small businesses
Throughout Washington, Workforce Development Councils are offering CRP grants to small businesses. These grants are a continuation of our partnership with ESD and the Washington Workforce Alliance.
Small business grants are available in the Pacific Mountain region
Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council (PacMtn)’s Small Business Investment Grant program is now open in Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason, Pacific and Thurston counties. Grants can pay for business equipment, capacity-building improvements, employee training and more.
Applications are due by February 12, 2026.
Olympic Workforce Development Council (OWDC) is offering grants to small businesses
WorkSource and the OWDC are offering two CRP small business grants. These grants support small businesses in Clallam, Jefferson and Kitsap Counties. Funding may be used to purchase assets that support business growth and economic mobility.
Applications are due February 20, 2026.
Other CRP opportunities through Washington’s Workforce Development Councils
If you are an individual or small business who is interested in learning about funding opportunities through CRP’s partnerships with the Workforce Development Councils, you can reach out to them directly over email. There is funding available for individuals to pursue career goals and participate in matched savings programs. There is also funding for small businesses, too.
CRP and the 2026 Legislative Session
The Legislature introduced a bill to codify the community reinvestment program in statute. The Legislature is working to provide direction for CRP’s implementation.
You can learn more about these, other bills and their potential impact on the Legislature’s website.
Other impact stories from across Washington
Our team is continuing to learn more about the real life impacts of CRP. In this month’s newsletter, we wanted to spotlight more of the work happening in our state – by both our partners and community members. It is an honor to support our communities!
- Brave Blooms Flower Farms: Rooted in Sustainability, Grown with Love (PDF)
- Yakima Valley’s Small Business Revival: A Tapestry of Resilience, Community, and the South Central Workforce’s Helping Hand (Website and video)
- Celebrating Small Business Community Investment in King County (Website)
- Business Accelerator Grant Delivers Trailer Upgrade, Improving Safety and Profitability (LinkedIn story)