Incubator Programs

The Starting Point for Raw Ideas

Business Foundations is a one-day workshop designed for creative entrepreneurs who are still in the idea phase. You haven’t launched yet, and that’s exactly where this workshop meets you.

This is not competitive or selective. It’s open to anyone with a creative business idea and a desire to get clear on the basics.

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What the Workshop Covers

• Duration: One day (full workshop)
• Format: In-person
• Focus areas:
  • Understanding the why behind your business
  • Developing your vision, mission, and values statements
  • Defining your product/services
  • How to determine your start-up costs

By the end of this session, you will have a clear understanding of your business foundations plus a concrete list of next steps to move forward and make it happen.

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Is This for You?

Yes, if:

• You have a creative business idea but haven’t tested it yet
• You’re not sure where to start
• You want a low-pressure, one-day introduction to business planning

No, if:

• You’ve already tested your product or service in the real world (markets, online, retail, etc.)
• You’re ready to write a full business plan and pitch
• → In that case, check out our [12-Week Business Plan Cohort]

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Support after the workshop

You’re not done after one day. Workshop attendees are welcome to:

• Stay connected with the Spaceworks community
• Get basic technical assistance as you move from idea to action
• Apply for the 12-week cohort when you’re ready to go deeper

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Ready to register?

This workshop is open to all, no application required. Spaces are limited, though, so don’t wait.

👉 SUMMER WORKSHOP DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED

The Heart of the Incubator | Rigorous and Selective

The 12-Week Business Plan Cohort is the backbone of our Incubator. This is a highly competitive program designed for creative entrepreneurs who have already tested their product or service in the real world – with friends and family, at markets, online, or through a brick-and-mortar location.

You should have a clear understanding of what you’re offering customers before applying. This isn’t for raw ideas [look at Business Foundations for those]. It’s for businesses ready to formalize, grow, and pitch.

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What the cohort looks like

• Duration: 12 weeks
• Time commitment: Once per week, 3 hours per session
• Format: Mix of in-person and virtual
• Outcome: A completed, actionable business plan, plus a graduation pitch presentation

By the end of the cohort, you will have gained the knowledge to confidently run your business, a polished business plan, and the experience of pitching to a live audience.

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Support doesn’t end at graduation

We believe in supporting entrepreneurs throughout the lifetime of their business.
Once you complete the cohort, you become part of our alumni network with access to:

• Ongoing technical assistance
• Mentorship connections
• Peer support and networking
• Priority consideration for space, programming, and other Spaceworks opportunities

You’re not just passing through. You’re joining a long-term community...our family. 

Acceptance into the 12-week Business Plan Cohort includes several key benefits:

• Commercial lease support
• $1200 stipend for professional business services
• 1-year trial membership to the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce
• Professional business portrait or product shots
• Spaceworks alumni meet-up, and events
• Support for grand-openings and other major milestones

Ready to apply?

The application process is competitive, and seats are limited. We’re looking for committed, curious entrepreneurs who want to grow and give back to Tacoma.

👉 APPLICATIONS ARE CURRENTLY CLOSED