October 2026 • Volume 47

Your Monthly News & Updates

Upcoming Events, Industry news, and More!

Economic Alliance News

What We’ve Been Working On

Fall may be settling in with cooler temps and changing leaves, but our momentum is only growing. Our team is hard at work supporting local businesses, driving projects forward, and gearing up for the prioritization cycle. Roni attended both the AWB Policy Summit in Spokane and the CERB meeting in Olympia, where discussions focused on statewide tax structure impacts, economic development initiatives, and new Tier 4 funding opportunities for site readiness. Information from these meetings will be shared with eligible entities across the county.

Our staff has also been active in the community. Leonel has been visiting orchards and food establishments to check in on how drought conditions and recent fires are affecting growers and local businesses, offering support as many continue to experience reduced tourism. Mason has been researching the requirements for establishing American Viticultural Areas and attended the County Farm Bureau meeting with representatives from the Cattlemen’s Association and Horticultural Association to discuss wildfire impacts on agriculture. He also participated in the Poverty Simulation organized by WorkSource and staffed a booth at the Resource Fair hosted by the Oroville Farmer’s Market.

Infrastructure work continues to move forward. Earlier this month, we hosted an infrastructure overview workshop with 12 attendees, many of whom are preparing to submit applications this year. Letters of Interest were due September 30. We were able to fill the two vacant Infrastructure Committee seats and will be sharing the LOIs with the committee for review as we move into the next phase of the process.

The Loomis Fire District project is also progressing, with the consultant contract now signed and design work underway. We continue coordinating with CDBG on NEPA details and are working with county staff to prepare them to take over contract requirements for future CDBG projects.

We have hired Shannon Smith as our new part‑time SBDC Advisor, and she began on September 21. We are coordinating with the SBDC to begin her CBA training so she can become a fully certified business advisor. We will also be entering into an MOU with the Tri‑Cities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to engage their Spanish‑speaking advisor, expanding our capacity to serve more clients.

As our work continues to grow, we’re excited to welcome our new team member who will help strengthen these efforts and expand our capacity.

Meet Our New SBDC Advisor: Shannon Smith

We’re excited to welcome Shannon Smith to the Economic Alliance team as our new Certified Business Advisor with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Shannon joined us on September 21, 2026, bringing more than 20 years of experience in small business ownership, operations, finance, and administration.

She has hands-on expertise in bookkeeping, financial management, staffing, marketing, compliance, customer relations, and the everyday challenges of running a business.

As a former business owner herself, Shannon understands both the opportunities and obstacles entrepreneurs face — and she’s passionate about helping people find practical solutions and move their ideas forward.

Shannon was drawn to the Economic Alliance because it allows her to combine her business experience with what she genuinely loves: working with people and making a difference in the community she calls home. She’s especially excited to get out into the community, meet local business owners, learn about their goals, and help connect them with tools, resources, and ideas that support growth and success.

She loves the beautiful landscape and relaxed rural lifestyle of Okanogan County, but what stands out most is the strong sense of community — from rodeos and farmers markets to fairs, events, and the welcoming spirit of the people who live here. Outside of work, Shannon is an outdoor enthusiast and animal lover who enjoys hiking, camping, boating, gardening, exploring new places, and taking on new projects.

We’re thrilled to have Shannon on our team and look forward to the experience, energy, and community-centered approach she brings to her role.

Upcoming Workshops

We’re building out a fresh calendar of workshops aimed at helping small businesses grow with confidence. Topics may include, but aren’t limited to, business planning across a range of needs, creative tools like Canva and Reels, and digital basics to help entrepreneurs feel more comfortable online.

Upcoming Workshops:

Access to Capital — Oct 6 Join Business Impact NW Business Advisor Darren Guyaz for a workshop designed to help you understand funding options and prepare for financing.
Start Simple Series — Oct 7, 14 & 28 A free, three‑session workshop to help aspiring and current small business owners learn core concepts, evaluate their business idea, and set clear goals.
Language of Business — Dec 8 A free workshop with Gwen Kohl from Business Impact NW covering core business terminology and practical financial concepts.

If you would like more information on upcoming workshops visit our website @ Economic-Alliance.com/events

or call us @ 509-826-5107

Missed a class? Watch past workshops on Youtube at @OKEconomicAlliance/videos

Board Member Spotlight - Anthony Popelier

We’re pleased to introduce Anthony Popelier, our 1st Vice Chair on the Economic Alliance Board. Anthony has served on the board for approximately three years, bringing steady leadership and a strong commitment to supporting local businesses and strengthening the region’s economy.

Anthony is the Plant Manager for Oroville Reman & Reload, where he oversees operations, production, and team management. His industry experience gives him valuable insight into the needs of local employers and the opportunities that come from collaboration across sectors.

He enjoys serving on the Economic Alliance board because it allows him to contribute to the community beyond his role at Oroville Reman & Reload. Anthony appreciates how the board brings people from different industries together to support business growth, create opportunities, and build a stronger regional economy.

Anthony’s favorite thing about Okanogan County is the people. He values the strong sense of community, the way neighbors show up for one another, and the pride residents take in where they live. He also enjoys the open space, the connection to the outdoors, and the chance to experience all four seasons.

Outside of work, Anthony’s happy place is rodeo — whether he’s competing, judging, or practicing at home with family and friends. It’s a passion that keeps him connected to tradition, community, and the lifestyle he loves.

We’re grateful to have Anthony’s experience, perspective, and dedication on our board.

The Okanogan County Tourism Council has been actively promoting Okanogan Country this fall, including new advertising placements with Expedia, NW Travel & Life, and the Media Statehood Ski Insert to reach visitors planning winter and shoulder‑season travel.

A major project milestone this month is the installation of the Winthrop Informational Kiosk at Kiwanis Park. Identified in the Destination Master Plan, these kiosks help visitors navigate communities, discover lesser‑known areas, and stay longer in the region. Winthrop joins a growing list of completed kiosks in Brewster, Pateros, Omak, Loomis, Oroville, Tonasket, with Okanogan planned as the next location.

OCTC is also finalizing the new “In the Footprints of Matsura” tear‑off map — a self‑guided driving tour inspired by the Okanogan County Historical Society’s work and the recent Frank Matsura documentary. The tour will highlight sites where Matsura captured his iconic photographs, allowing visitors to compare historic images with present‑day views and snap their own photos at designated “selfie monument” spots. The board is currently selecting the best county‑wide locations, with potential expansion into additional cultural and historical themes.

Visit: OkanoganCountry.com

Wildfire Disaster Resources

USDA Disaster Assistance Programs (FSA)

USDA offers several programs to support farmers, ranchers, and agricultural businesses impacted by natural disasters. Through the Farm Service Agency (FSA), producers can access assistance for recovery needs ranging from livestock and crop losses to damaged equipment and operational setbacks.

For a full list of available FSA programs and additional USDA disaster resources, click here.

Disaster relief resources available for wildfire-impacted businesses and individuals

Disaster relief resources are available for businesses and property owners impacted by recent wildfires. The Washington State Department of Revenue is offering filing extensions and penalty waivers for businesses unable to file excise taxes on time, as well as property tax adjustments for damaged or destroyed properties through the Destroyed Property form. Additional support is available for timber tax credits, audit rescheduling, and reseller permit extensions.

Learn more here

Washington Wildfire Emergency: Department of Commerce Resources

Washington is under a State of Emergency due to severe wildfires, and many households are facing urgent needs. The Department of Commerce is supporting both immediate response and long‑term recovery efforts across impacted communities.

If you or your household has been affected — especially if you qualified for LIHEAP this program year — your local Community Action Agency may be able to help with energy and utility support, temporary shelter, emergency needs, air purifiers in eligible counties, and assistance with home repairs and weatherization.

Click here to learn more and connect with available resources.

Rebuilding After Fire Damage? L&I Shares Tips to Avoid Contractor Scams

As homeowners begin repairs after this season’s fire damage, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) is reminding residents to carefully check contractors before hiring or paying for any work. L&I continues to see cases where unregistered or fraudulent contractors take advantage of disaster recovery.

The agency encourages homeowners to verify contractor registration, get multiple bids, use written agreements, and avoid paying in full until the job is complete. L&I also offers resources for resolving contractor issues and information about the Homeowner Recovery Fund.

Learn more here: L&I News Release

2026 Wildfire Emergency Loan Program

The 2026 Wildfire Emergency Loan Program offers emergency financing for businesses, nonprofits, agricultural operations, and other organizations impacted by the 2026 wildfire events within the Tri County Economic Development District region. Funding supports recovery, stabilization, and continued operations while long‑term resources are pursued.

Loan amounts range from $2,500 to $25,000, with $500,000 allocated for the program. Applications are reviewed on a first‑come, first‑served basis and will remain open throughout the wildfire season or until funds are fully awarded. Eligible expenses include working capital, inventory replacement, equipment or facility repairs, temporary operating costs, and other approved recovery needs.

Click Here to Learn More

Small Business News & Updates

Washington Saves: Employer Overview & Upcoming Training

Washington Saves is a new state‑sponsored retirement savings program launching in July 2027. It’s designed to help employees build long‑term financial security, and it’s easy for employers to facilitate with no fees, no employer contributions, and no fiduciary liability. Workers are fifteen times more likely to save when they have access to a payroll‑deduction program, making Washington Saves a simple way to support your team’s financial wellness.

State law requires employers to participate if they have operated in Washington for at least two years, maintain a physical presence in the state, employed the equivalent of five full‑time workers in the previous calendar year, and do not currently offer a qualified retirement plan such as a 401(k), SEP, SIMPLE IRA, or 403(b). Employees age eighteen and older are automatically enrolled once an employer registers, but participation is always voluntary. They can opt out or back in at any time, choose their own contribution rate, and their IRA remains portable throughout their career.

The program will open in 2027, and employers will register, share basic program information with their team, provide an employee roster for enrollment setup, and process simple payroll deductions while the program handles the rest. Our Executive Director will be hosting a Washington Saves training to help local employers understand the program and prepare for implementation. Once the session is recorded, we’ll upload it to our YouTube channel and share the link in a future newsletter.

For more information, visit wasaves.com or email info@wasaves.wa.gov.

Workers’ Compensation Rate Proposal for 2027

The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) is proposing a 4.9% increase to the average workers’ compensation rate for 2027. The adjustment helps cover rising costs for wage‑replacement and medical benefits when workers are injured on the job.

Although projected claim costs for 2027 are higher, L&I plans to use the workers’ compensation contingency reserve to offset the difference and keep rates steady for employers and workers.

If adopted, the increase would average about $1.44 per week per full‑time employee, shared between employers and workers. Each fall, L&I reviews wage trends, expected payouts, and financial indicators to determine rates for the coming year.

Learn More Here: Proposed Rates

New Report: Rising Business Costs in Washington

A new report from the Washington Roundtable and Kinetic West examines how rising business costs are contributing to higher prices for Washington families. The analysis highlights seven major cost pressures — including labor, occupancy, inflation, tariffs, and tax structure — that are affecting small businesses across the state and influencing everyday affordability.

Washington’s 160,000 small businesses play a central role in local communities, and the report shows how rising costs are shaping decisions around pricing, staffing, investment, and long‑term sustainability. Case studies from childcare, retail, agriculture, and manufacturing illustrate how these pressures are impacting operations and, ultimately, household budgets across the state.

Learn more here

Temporary Registration Certificates for Pop‑Up Sellers & Event Vendors

Businesses participating in no more than two events per year in Washington may qualify for a Temporary Registration Certificate. This option is designed for short‑term activities such as craft shows, fairs, and similar events lasting less than one month.

Eligible vendors can apply online or at a local office up to 180 days before the event. After the event, the required tax form must be submitted within 10 business days by mail or in person. Vendors operating more than two events annually must obtain a standard state business license.

Click here to learn more

Washington Healthplanfinder: One-time special enrollment for small businesses

Eligible small business owners with fewer than 50 employees may be eligible for a one-time

special enrollment for themselves and their employees to sign up for an individual health

plan outside of open enrollment on Washington Healthplanfinder™.

Washington Healthplanfinder, the state’s official health and dental insurance marketplace,

allows individuals and families to:

Shop, compare and buy high-quality individual health and dental plans;
Get exclusive access to federal and state savings; and
Determine eligibility to enroll in Washington Apple Health (Medicaid).

To find out if you are an eligible small business and to learn more,

contact: smallbusiness@wahbexchange.org

SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans Available for Freeze & Frost Impacts

The U.S. Small Business Administration has issued an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) declaration for Okanogan County and the surrounding counties impacted by the March 9–11, 2026 freeze and frost. Eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, aquaculture businesses, and nonprofits may apply for working‑capital loans to help meet ordinary financial obligations affected by this disaster.

Loans feature fixed interest rates up to 4%, terms up to 30 years, and amounts up to $2 million, depending on financial need and eligibility. The application deadline is March 31, 2027.

Learn more here

Prime Spots

Are you looking for the perfect space to expand, or start your small business? Check out these prime property options available in the area! The Economic Alliance is here to connect you with resources to help your business thrive. Have a Prime Spot ready to be utilized? Contact Mason!

Properties Search

Contact Mason

Your October Toolkit: Resources, & Essentials

Grant Opportunities

Climate Smart Farm Equipment Grant Opens September 4, 2026

Washington’s farms play a vital role in feeding communities and supporting our regional economy. The Climate Smart Farm Equipment Grant, funded through Washington’s Climate Commitment Act, helps producers invest in equipment that reduces greenhouse gas emissions, improves soil health, and strengthens long‑term agricultural resilience.

This reimbursement program supports commercial agriculture and aquaculture operations across the state. Up to $4.3 million is available for Fiscal Year 2026 on a first‑come, first‑served basis.

Eligible applicants include:

Commercial farming operations of all sizes
Agricultural, aquacultural, livestock, poultry, silvicultural, and apiary operations
Producers who meet enhanced‑rate criteria such as Tribal affiliation, veteran status, or lower gross farm income

Reimbursement rates:

Standard: 75% of eligible equipment costs (up to $200,000)
Enhanced: 85% of eligible equipment costs (up to $200,000)

Producers are encouraged to prepare early by:

Registering for a Statewide Vendor (SWV) number
Getting a quote from their equipment vendor
Reviewing eligible equipment and delivery timelines

For full details and application preparation resources, visit:

Climate Smart Farm Equipment Grant

Steven L. Tadlock Veteran Business Grant

The Stephen L. Tadlock Veteran Business Grant provides $1,000 micro‑grants and free access to Founders First CDC business programs to help veteran‑owned businesses strengthen operations, leadership, and growth strategies. Open to U.S. military veterans leading active businesses with 2–100 employees, this program supports flexible needs such as equipment, staffing, and operational improvements. Full applications are now being accepted.

Application Deadline: October 15, 2026

Learn More Here!

Ecology Lean & Green Program Now Available to Washington Manufacturers

Manufacturers across Washington can now access a grant‑supported program designed to help reduce operating costs and improve efficiency. Through hands‑on guidance, participating companies receive support to identify and implement improvements that reduce waste, streamline operations, and deliver measurable results.

The Ecology Lean & Green Program, offered in partnership between Impact Washington and the Washington State Department of Ecology, focuses on real, hands‑on implementation that directly strengthens your bottom line. Participating manufacturers receive practical support to identify opportunities, reduce waste, and streamline operations in ways that create lasting improvements. Many companies see a strong return on investment within the first year, along with long‑term gains in efficiency and performance.

Learn more

USDA Opens Enrollment for 2026–2027 ARC & PLC Programs

USDA has opened enrollment for the 2026 and 2027 Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs, following the first base‑acre expansion in 20 years. More than 30 million new acres were added nationwide, with a 3.69% prorated reduction applied due to high eligibility. Producers can review updated base‑acre allocations and enroll during the fall sign‑up windows, with options to update their program elections and sign new multi‑year contracts. Crop insurance rules have also been updated, allowing SCO and ECO coverage regardless of ARC/PLC election.

Learn More Here

NCESD Student Career Event

The North Central Educational Service District is hosting a regional career event designed to connect high school and college students from across North Central Washington with local employers. Businesses and organizations are invited to participate at no cost and engage with students exploring future career pathways. This event offers a valuable opportunity to support workforce development and interact with emerging talent in our region.

Event Date: October 21

Time: 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Location: Okanogan Agri‑Plex

To confirm participation, contact:

Nikki Medved at nikkim@ncesd.org or Linda Dezellem at lindad@ncesd.org.

FIRA USA 2026 – Agricultural Robotics & AgTech Conference

FIRA USA is the leading event where agricultural robotics and AgTech meet real grower needs. Over three days, the conference brings together growers, robot manufacturers, researchers, investors, and technology teams to explore practical, on‑farm automation solutions. Each edition features live field demonstrations, expert panels, curated matchmaking sessions, and hands‑on workshops designed to help growers understand, evaluate, and adopt emerging technologies.

This year’s event will be held in Yakima, Washington, one of the nation’s most diverse specialty crop regions. With labor shortages and rising production challenges, the Pacific Northwest is an ideal location for conversations around automation, robotics, and the future of specialty crop farming and the technologies shaping the industry.

Learn more or register here