Scholarships Available to Support Mason County Businesses

The Mason County Economic Development Council (MasonEDC) is offering scholarship opportunities for two business training programs designed to support entrepreneurs in launching and expanding their businesses.

The Business Enterprise Startup Training (BEST) program provides new entrepreneurs with essential knowledge on business planning, structuring and licensing, branding and marketing, intellectual property protection, and basic accounting principles. This self-paced, online program equips participants with the foundational tools needed to build a successful business from the ground up. Whether you’re formalizing a side hustle or taking the first steps toward full-time entrepreneurship, BEST provides critical insight and practical tools that reduce guesswork and build confidence.

Quick Startup, an e-commerce accelerator, is specifically designed for women-owned businesses seeking to strengthen their digital presence and grow online sales. The program offers a $2,000 scholarship that covers the full cost of participation, including six instructor-led training sessions, expert mentorship, access to TheWMarketplace platform—a curated e-commerce site for women entrepreneurs—and certification upon completion. Participants will learn how to build a strong digital brand, engage customers through social media, improve packaging for online sales, and provide exceptional customer service.

“We are excited to offer these scholarship opportunities to support entrepreneurs in Mason County,” said Kevin Shutty, Executive Director of MasonEDC. “These programs provide the tools and knowledge necessary for small businesses to succeed. Whether launching a new venture or expanding into e-commerce, participants will receive practical training to help them grow.”

Both programs are delivered in partnership with experienced statewide organizations. The BEST program is hosted by the Center for Business Innovation and is ideal for entrepreneurs who prefer self-paced, flexible learning. Meanwhile, Quick Startup is facilitated by the Washington Center for Women in Business (WCWB), a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs. Quick Startup combines hands-on instruction with expert guidance and peer support, making it a powerful springboard for digital growth.

By providing these scholarships, MasonEDC is removing financial barriers that often prevent entrepreneurs from accessing professional development and growth opportunities. The training offered through BEST and Quick Startup doesn’t just educate—it equips participants with real-world strategies, connections, and the confidence to move forward.

MasonEDC encourages eligible businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs to apply for these scholarships and take advantage of this opportunity to strengthen their business foundations. Space is limited, and scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis, so early application is encouraged.

Now more than ever, local entrepreneurs need access to the right tools and training to navigate the ever-changing business landscape. Through BEST and Quick Startup, MasonEDC is helping to empower a new generation of Mason County business leaders—one scholarship at a time.

For more information on the programs, visit masonedc.org or call (360) 426-2276.