Incubator Programs

Taylor Cox of Coxswain Press, Spaceworks Incubator

Spaceworks is seeking creative entrepreneurs who want to grow a thriving business and make a positive impact in Tacoma. Since 2010, the Spaceworks Incubator has provided relevant and meaningful business training for first-time business owners, ambitious creative professionals, and folks passionate about making Tacoma a great place to live and work. We serve as a training ground to test new ideas, products, and services with a safety net of technical assistance and mentorship.

Business Foundations focuses on the idea phase of business in a one-day workshop. Class highlights include understanding the ‘why’ behind your business, setting up your business finances, finding your ideal customer, and developing your vision, mission, and values statements. At the end of this session, you will have a clear understanding of your business foundations and the next steps to move forward and make it happen. If you are beyond the idea phase, take a look at our 12-week Business Plan Cohort. If you’re still not sure, reach out to us and we’ll help you decide which program is best for you.

*Foundations in a Day is on Saturday, June 21st 10-3pm

*Applications are always open and there is no selection process for the Business Foundations.

The 12-Week Business Plan Cohort is the backbone of our Incubator and results in a formal business plan. Participants meet once a week for 12 weeks (3 hours/week).

This cohort focuses on those businesses that have tested their product or service in the market (friends, family, markets, Etsy, brick and mortar, etc.) and have a clear understanding of what they are providing to the customer. At the end of this 12-week cohort, you will have gained the knowledge to successfully run your business, a completed business plan, and will have presented your pitch at your Graduation.

Upcoming Start Dates:
Fall Session begins on September 16, 2025
*Applications due on August 4, 2025

Spring 2025 date TBD

*Applications are always open, and notifications of acceptance go out in August and February.

Sessions include:
Session 1: Orientation, Expectations, and Alumni Panel (In Person Session)

Session 2: Business Foundations, Your “Why”, and Products/Services

Session 3: Business Financials

Session 4: Branding and Culture, Visual Merchandising

Session 5: Defining Your Customer and Competition, Market Analysis, SWOT

Session 6: Marketing in Practice

Session 7: Funding/Financing Opportunities

Session 8: Insurance and Leasing

Session 9: Hiring Employees, HR, and Contracts

Session 10: Growing in Your Community

Session 11: Graduation Presentation Practice and Peer Review

Session 12: Graduation – In person, Class graduation ceremony and presentations

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

$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
Commercial lease support

Questions? Please contact the Incubator Coordinator, Kirsten Kreis KirstenK@tacomachamber.org

Apply to Incubator

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