Innovation Institute GETS NEW DIGS in Downtown Ellensburg FOUNDRY TO SERVE AS HUB FOR ENTREPRENEURIAL EXPANSION
By Della Gonzales CWU’s Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (I4IE) has a new home in downtown Ellensburg: The Foundry, at 421 N. Main Street. The move increases the exposure and impact of the decade-old institute. The I4IE was formed in 2011 with the support of the Herbert B. Jones Foundation, a Bellevue organization that supports new business programs managed by post-secondary educa- tional entities in Washington. I4IE was also supported by the Patricia Galloway and Kris Nielsen Foundation, which funds original research that seeks to create innovative products and services which integrate science and engineering with management concepts. “The mission of the I4IE is to empower communities and indi- viduals through increasing local enterprise ownership,” said Janie Zencak, assistant director of the I4IE. The Foundry location provides the community a familiar place to go for business guidance, whether they’re just start - ing a new business or looking to expand. Services include helping create start-up plans, interpretating rules and regula - tions, guiding how and where to obtain permits, and helping with social media and marketing strategies. The Foundry will also serve as a meeting space for community organizations that do not have a dedicated space.
“Ideally, the Foundry will serve as a catalyst for local busi - nesses to work together to help each other grow,” Zencak said. “Entrepreneurial expansion with the small-town feel that Ellensburg and the surrounding area is known for.” Zencak also looks forward to increased interactions with individuals from the City of Ellensburg, the Kittitas Coun - ty Commissioners, the Chamber of Commerce, and local non-profits such as Habitat for Humanity. Additionally, the I4IE is interested in working with event groups, including the Ellensburg Rodeo and Jazz in the Valley. As Ellensburg grows, the I4IE would like to provide existing businesses opportunities to learn best practices for main- taining and growing their clientele in an environment where larger businesses with modern marketing and technology could become competition. They want to provide local businesses tools to encourage customers to shop locally instead of relying on large corporations and online retailers for purchases. Local business owners are enthusiastic about these resources. While the geographical focus of the program is Ellensburg and the Central Washington region, the I4IE helps individu - als throughout the state—especially in areas experiencing economic stress. “Sometimes they find us, and sometimes we find them,” said Zencak, noting the program is always seeking opportunities to assist small business owners.
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