Department of Enterprise Services

institutional resources

A Guide for Enterprise Growth

Connecting private sector innovation with public sector needs through transparent, strategic bilateral partnerships.

About DES

The Department of Enterprise Services (DES) serves as the central hub for state-level procurement and contracting. By streamlining the acquisition process, DES ensures that taxpayers receive maximum value while local businesses gain fair access to substantial government opportunities. Our mission is to bridge the gap between institutional requirements and private-sector solutions.

Why Contract With State

Stable Revenue

Access long-term, reliable financial commitments backed by state budgets.

Scale Business

Use government projects to enhance credibility and scale.

Equity Access

Programs to support minority, veteran, and women-owned businesses.

Public Impact

Directly contribute to state infrastructure
and public service improvements.

How to get started

Registration and Certification

Register your entity with the Statewide Vendor System. Ensure all professional certifications are updated and verified for eligibility in specific contracting categories.

Identify Opportunities

Utilize the WEBS (Washington’s Electronic Business Solution) portal to track upcoming solicitations, RFP releases, and regional bidding events.

Bid Submission

Prepare comprehensive proposals following exact solicitation requirements. Submit through the digital portal before strict deadlines for evaluation.

Contract Management

Once awarded, manage compliance, reporting, and invoicing through the centralized State Contract Management system.

Resources & Support

Training Modules

Interactive webinars and on-demand video guides for first-time bidders.

Advocacy Center

Dedicated support for
resolving procurement disputes and policy clarifications.

Data Insights

Annual spending reports
and future forecast data
for strategic planning.

Other Resources

Washington Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

SCORE Greater Seattle

Tabor 100: Technical assistance request form

DES: Do business with the state

Pierce County Business Accelerator training

The Seattle Public Library: Business and nonprofit services

Business.wa.gov: Small business guide

Business.wa.gov: Economic and Business Resilience newsletter

DES: Most common abbreviations and definitions

Washington State Procurement Manual

Regional Procurement Offices

Vendor resources

Directory of Washington libraries

Statewide contract sales data – State of Washington

Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE) newsletters

Business.wa.gov: Small Business Liaison Team

SBA Resources for Small Businesses

The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers specialized programs, funding, and mentorship to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and expand their businesses. KACCWA serves as your dedicated bridge to these federal opportunities.

About SBA

Founded in 1953, the U.S. Small Business Administration continues to help small business owners and entrepreneurs pursue the American dream. The SBA is the only cabinet-level federal agency fully dedicated to small business and provides counseling, capital, and contracting expertise as the nation’s only go-to resource and voice for small businesses. Whether you are in the planning stage, launch phase, or looking to scale your operations internationally, the SBA provides the institutional framework to ensure your enterprise thrives in a competitive global market.

Financing & Funding Opportunities

7(a) Loan Program

The SBA’s most common loan program, providing financial help for businesses with special requirements.

504 Loan Program

Provides long-term, fixed-rate financing for major fixed assets that promote business growth and job creation.

Microloan Program

Loans up to $50,000 to help small businesses and select not-for-profit childcare centers start and grow.

Business Development & Growth Programs

8(a) Business Development Program

Designed for small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals to help them compete in the American economy.

WOSB (Women-Owned Small Business)

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HUBZone Program

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast

VOSB (Veteran-Owned Small Business)

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast

Disaster Assistance for Businesses

Physical Damage Loans

Repair or replace disaster-damaged property, including inventory, and supplies.

Economic Injury Loans

Working capital to help small businesses through a disaster recovery period.

King County Community Reinvestment Business Grant

Empowering local enterprises through targeted financial support that stimulates economic growth and community development.

Grant Overview

The King County Community Reinvestment Business Grant is a cornerstone initiative designed to catalyze economic growth within historically underserved and isolated communities. Through targeted financial support, this grant seeks to bridge the resource gap, fostering innovation and community value wealth generation.

Objectives