2024 Reflections and Opportunities

In 2024, the combined programs and initiatives of the EDC and our Center for Business & Innovation made a significant impact on the local economy:

  • $71.1 million in total economic impact
  • 380 jobs created
  • $25.9 million in total labor income generated

Since 2019, our efforts have collectively resulted in:

  • $997.2 million in total economic impact
  • Over 3,800 jobs created
  • $256.9 million in labor income generated

This five-year timeframe demonstrates a remarkable return on investment (ROI): for every $1 invested in our organization, $22.86 was returned to Thurston County’s economy. These achievements are something we take great pride in, and we remain committed to supporting our region’s economic growth and vitality. Click here to read our Annual Report.

Looking Ahead
As we step into 2025 and beyond, we are excited about opportunities that will further strengthen our entrepreneurial ecosystem and attract strategic investment to Thurston County. Notably, the Agricultural Business & Innovation Park in Tenino is set to open this winter, hosting a variety of small, food-based businesses and laying the groundwork for continued growth in our region’s economy.

While these successes reflect the hard work of the EDC and the Center for Business & Innovation, it is important to remember that our programs are designed with businesses in mind. We offer entry points and resources for all types of businesses – from micro-enterprises and startups to manufacturers, professional services, and emerging markets not yet fully realized.

Resources at Your Fingertips
The tools we offer – from the Lacey MakerSpace and APEX Accelerator (government markets), to ScaleUp (business counseling), and the WA Center for Women in Business – are here to help businesses like yours grow, sustain, and thrive. These programs were developed to support you, the innovators and entrepreneurs of Thurston County.

On behalf of our Board of Directors and leadership team, I encourage you to put these resources to work. Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant economy for Thurston County.

Wishing you a successful and prosperous 2025.

Michael Cade
Executive Director
Thurston EDC