A free consulting program offered by the City of Seattle's Office of Economic Development.
The Accounting & Business Consulting (ABC) Program is a key initiative of the Office of Economic Development (OED) designed to provide small businesses in Seattle with expert consulting services to help them thrive. This program connects entrepreneurs, small business owners, and nonprofits with professional consultants who specialize in areas critical to business success. By offering free or subsidized services, the ABC Program aims to reduce barriers and ensure equitable access to expert advice and resources.
Participants in the ABC Program receive up to 10 free consulting hours per category (40 hours total), with services designed to address the unique needs of small businesses and nonprofits. The program prioritizes businesses that are BIPOC-owned, LGBTQIA+-owned, women-owned, or serve underrepresented communities.
Consulting categories include:
Launch Industries is proud to be an approved consultant in the City of Seattle's ABC Program, offering expert guidance to small businesses and nonprofits within the "Business Development" category of the program. Launch Industries specializes in helping organizations achieve their goals through tailored consulting services designed to drive growth and success. The specific services that we offer within the context of the program include:
Although we would love to provide general consulting in marketing and finance, these services are not included in our contract with the ABC Program. Our participation in these subject areas is limited to the selection and implementation of related software tools and we can not assist directly with brand development, social media marketing, bookkeeping, or tax assistance. You can learn more about the kinds of services we have offered other ABC program participants within these case studies.
The ABC Program is designed for small businesses and nonprofits that meet the following criteria:
Small businesses and nonprofits are the heart of Seattle, driving innovation, creating jobs, and enriching neighborhoods. The ABC Program ensures that every organization—regardless of size or background—has access to expert guidance and resources. By focusing on equity, the program supports Seattle’s vision of a thriving, diverse, and inclusive economy.
The registration process is simple and participant-focused:
Are you part of a chamber of commerce, business association, library, Business Improvement Area (BIA), or other community-focused organization? Partner with Launch Industries to promote these free consulting services to the businesses and nonprofits in your network. Together, we can empower local entrepreneurs, strengthen communities, and build a more inclusive economy. Schedule a call us today to explore partnership opportunities and help spread the word about the ABC Program. Let’s collaborate to ensure every organization in Seattle has access to the resources they need to succeed.
Businesses must have a Seattle business license to be eligible. However, if you’re just starting out, the program may connect you with a business development consultant to assist with obtaining your license as the first step.
If you don’t complete your hours within six months, you may need to reapply to the program. If you need additional hours beyond the allocated 10 hours per category, this may be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on program funding and availability.
Yes! The ABC Program works with community organizations, including chambers of commerce, business associations, libraries, and Business Improvement Areas (BIAs), to promote the program. If your organization is interested in partnering, contact us through the program website to collaborate.
At this time, the following Launch Team members are approved for offering ABC Program Services: