Bringing Business Resources to Rural Southwest Washington

Rural business coaching in Southwest Washington is helping small business owners navigate more than just day-to-day operations. In places like Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties, long drive times, fewer nearby services, and limited local support can make it harder to access the resources needed to grow.

That’s why Workforce Southwest Washington, in partnership with the Washington State Department of Commerce and Business Impact NW, launched a new effort to bring practical, local business support to rural communities — starting with free coaching and expert-led sessions in Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties.

Why Local Support Matters in Rural Communities

Cowlitz County is home to more than 2,200 small businesses — 99.8% of all businesses in the area. Wahkiakum County has just 82 (Stacker, 2021), and with average commute times exceeding 40 minutes (Data USA), finding trusted, affordable business advice nearby can feel impossible.

Through this partnership, Business Impact NW hosts monthly drop-in coaching sessions in Kelso and expert-led virtual workshops. Whether you have five minutes or fifty,  a quick question, or need strategic advice, you’ll leave with something useful.

“We’ve been fortunate to work with Sean Moore at Workforce Southwest Washington in forging new partnerships across Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties,” said Darren Guyaz, Business Coach, Trainer, and program lead for the initiative at Business Impact NW.  “Our connection with Bonnie Delaney at the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce has been especially significant — it’s what made these drop-in sessions possible.”

The sessions opened the door, but it’s the everyday questions from business owners that continue to shape the conversation.

What Would You Ask?

If you had 10 minutes with a business coach, what would you ask?

• “How do I find local vendors I can actually afford?”
• “Am I supposed to be collecting B&O tax?”
• “What are my options if I want to hire, but only part-time?”
• “Can I raise prices without losing customers?”
• “Do I have to be on social media to grow?”
• “I have a food trailer—how do I get into local festivals?”
• “Is there funding for storefront upgrades or signage?”

These drop-in sessions are built around those questions — not big presentations or slide decks. Whether you’re just getting started or have been running a business for years, support is available.

Upcoming sessions include:

• Drop-In Business Coaching – Kelso, WA
• Business Expert Session: A Quality Jobs Perspective
  May 8 | 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM PST

Early Impact and Feedback

Since launching the program, Business Impact NW has seen early engagement from business owners. Entrepreneurs are using drop-in sessions to navigate licensing questions, tax planning, employee retention strategies, vendor relationships, and more.

What’s resonating most? Having someone there to listen and give honest, actionable advice.

“We’ve also participated in local networking events in the Kelso–Longview area,” Darren added, “building community connections with local organizations, business leaders, and government agencies. It’s been a powerful way to listen, learn, and show up for the small business community.”

Learn More and Get Involved

If you own a business in Cowlitz or Wahkiakum County, you’re invited to join a session, ask questions, or explore available support. These free resources are open to everyone — whether you're solving a challenge, planning future growth, or simply looking to connect with someone who understands small business.

👉 View the full calendar of events

This program is financed by a WA State Dept. of Commerce Community Reinvestment grant provided through Workforce Southwest Washington.