Ideally located between two large urban areas – Vancouver, BC and Seattle, WA – Bellingham offers four higher-educational institutions, a myriad of business support agencies, redevelopment incentives, a supportive community and an unmatched lifestyle.
Get the data and connections you need to understand Bellingham’s economic landscape and set your business up for success. This includes information on population, housing, employment, development activity, and more.
Additional data resources
- Bellingham’s 2025 growth management plan (comprehensive plan)
- Washington State Labor and Economic Data
- Washington State Monthly Employment Report
- Whatcom County Labor Market Profile (from WA State ESD)
Regional business support
Many local business organizations in our community offer assistance, training, and guidance for businesses and entrepreneurs.
Serving the local business community since 1911, the Chamber is a business resource for new and existing businesses looking to make Bellingham and Whatcom County their home. Chamber staff will guide you to the resources you need as you explore real estate options, permitting, employment, marketing, vendor referrals and more.
As the county’s official tourism agency, this non-profit organization provides maps, marketing, business education workshops, community information and tourism research and statistics. Contact Bellingham/Whatcom Tourism to learn about Whatcom County’s quality of life, exploring outdoor activities, arts and entertainment and more.
With about 4,000 students, BTC is the only two-year technical college in northwest Washington. BTC offers associate degrees and certificate programs that prepare students for careers in a variety of industries, including advanced manufacturing, accounting, process technology, registered nursing, radiologic technology and many others. Contact BTC if you’re interested in local technical programs, recruiting, job postings, internships or professional training.
The Downtown Bellingham Partnership (DBP) is a strong voice for downtown and a liaison between downtown stakeholders and local decision-makers. DBP champions a vibrant, welcoming downtown through initiatives focused on commerce, culture, celebration, and care. The City of Bellingham contracts with DBP to maintain cleaning and landscaping in the downtown core, while DBP also produces signature events that bring thousands of visitors downtown throughout the year. Businesses can connect through quarterly City Block meetings, participate in events and programs, and access seasonal grants for storefront improvements, commercial activation, and creative programming when funding is available. Contact DBP to get connected, explore opportunities to do business downtown, or learn more about Bellingham’s downtown community.
The Association’s purpose is to promote and support the historic Fairhaven district in south Bellingham. Programs include mutual exchange of discounts for employees, beautification projects, business directory and website and event planning. The Association also holds monthly merchant meetings. Contact them if you’re interested in starting a business in Fairhaven.
The NWIRC works with early stage innovators – entrepreneurs and inventors – to bring their ideas to life. Through the creation of personalized strategies that fit the unique situation and goals of each innovator, the NWIRC process prepares them with the right tools and resources to navigate the pitfalls incurred while developing and launching their new idea. Contact the NWIRC if you’re interested in developing/launching a new idea or technology, creating a business and marketing plan or getting guidance and mentorship.
The Port serves existing businesses countywide, on and off Port property, with retention and expansion support. Staff also manage inbound investment leads and work to attract new business to Whatcom County. We stay current on development opportunities and resources through our expansive partnerships. Contact the Port of Bellingham if you’re interested in relocating to Whatcom County, starting a business on Port property or obtaining financing.
Get expert advice from retired professionals who’ve lived and breathed small business. Sponsored by the Small Business Administration, SCORE offers free business counseling and publications that cover initial capital requirements, operating capital, business and marketing plans, pricing, advertising, cash flow, profit/loss and other business fundamentals.
Looking to start, grow, or better manage your small business? The WWU Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is your go-to team for confidential assistance. Certified Business Advisors offer one-on-one help in all areas of business: marketing, HR, managing, finance, market research, business planning and forecasting – all at no cost.
Get real, practical advice on growing your business in a smart and sustainable way. Sustainable Connections is a non-profit that offers advice and workshops for entrepreneurs and business professionals. They offer a local forum where businesses come together to transform and model an economy built on sustainable practices. Contact Sustainable Connections if you’re interested in green building, farming, food and beverage or sustainable business practices.
TAG connects technology businesses to resources by offering education programs, networking opportunities and other business services to the technology sector and its service providers. Their mission is to promote, educate and advocate for technology businesses in the area. Contact TAG if you’re interested in connecting with the local tech community, recruiting or getting involved with local tech events.
The WBA leadership network provides a strong voice for the private sector of business throughout Whatcom County – small or large, private or public, in any industry or niche market; they encourage economic development and advocacy.
The WBA membership roll call continues to grow rapidly with a unifying mission: supporting and celebrating a positive business environment and providing a vast communications network to address issues concerning businesses. Contact the WBA if you’re interested in professional networking, business events and workshops or marketing.
WCC offers transfer degrees to continue their educations at four-year colleges or universitiesas well as professional-technical degrees. WCC also offers basic education, job skills, and Community & Continuing Education classes. Contact WCC if you’re interested in recruiting, or training and workshops.
WorkSource Centers provide one-stop hiring and training assistance to businesses and job-seekers. Services for businesses include computer job matching, online job postings and resume bank, customized training and consultation. WorkSource Centers are a joint venture of numerous workforce, education and training agencies.
Contact Us
For questions, business support, or more information, please contact our business concierge at business@cob.org or 1-360-778-8012.
