Whether you’re just getting started or looking to grow, small businesses are the heart of the U District. Explore a list of tools, funding opportunities, and support services to help you navigate challenges, access capital, and thrive in Seattle’s fastest-growing neighborhood.
Washington Small Business Flex Fund 2
Supported by the Washington State Department of Commerce, the Fund helps small businesses and nonprofits access affordable loans they need to thrive.
With competitive interest rates and flexible repayment options, the new Washington Small Business Flex Fund 2 is designed to help small businesses and nonprofits access funds to grow and thrive.
Eligible Businesses Must Have:
Fewer than 50 employees
Annual revenues of less than $5 million
Been in business for at least one year prior to time of application
Accessible Loan Terms:
Borrow up to $250,000
Interest rates currently range from 8.5-11.5% depending on the length of the loan*
Fixed interest rate for the life of the loan
36- to 72-month loan terms
No prepayment penalties
*This range is 1-4% above the current WSJ prime rate of 7.5%, a national base rate determined by the 10 largest U.S. banks.
Loan Use is Flexible:
Payroll
Utilities & rent
Marketing & advertising
Building improvements or repairs
Other business expenses
Past Grants
2023-2025 U District Vitality Grants
Through a generous grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce in 2023, The U District Partnership was able to invest nearly $5 million in over 140 small businesses resulting in hundreds of improvements.
Learn more about this incredible investment and its impact in the neighborhood.
Learn More2023 U District Vacant Spaces Revival Grant
This grant will provided funding for entrepreneurs and current business operators to invest in fixed asset improvements such as the purchase of specialized equipment and exterior/interior renovations necessary to operate in a ground-floor commercial space.
Learn More