Strategic Asset Acquisition Program (SAAP)
Empowering Native Businesses to Build Intergenerational Wealth
The Northwest Native Chamber , in partnership with the Washington State Department of Commerce, proudly presents the Strategic Asset Acquisition Program (SAAP)—a transformative grant initiative designed to support Native-owned businesses in Washington. With $674,000 in funding, SAAP helps entrepreneurs acquire critical high-value assets to expand their operations and foster long-term sustainability.
Grant Overview
SAAP offers funding for:
Land purchases to operate or expand your business.
Equipment acquisition to boost capacity and efficiency.
Down payment assistance for retail or studio spaces.
Infrastructure investments critical to operations.
In addition to funding, every recipient will receive one-on-one technical assistance tailored to your business needs. Support includes:
Capital coaching
Business plan development
Legal and financial management guidance
Eligibility, Timeline, and Requirements
Eligibility
Timeline
Selection Criteria
Eligibility
To qualify, you must:
- Be a for-profit business registered in Washington State.
- Use the funding for eligible high-value asset purchases that increase your business’s scope and sustainability.
Timeline
- November 22, 2024: Application Opens
- December 11, 2024: Application Support Webinar
- 11:59 PM PST January 2, 2025: Application Closes
- January 17, 2025: Award Notifications
- January – May 2025: Fund Distribution & Technical Assistance
- June 15, 2025: Program Close-Out
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Long-Term Impact: Sustainability, scalability, and community benefit.
- Feasibility: Detailed implementation plan and use of funds.
- Community Engagement: Partnerships, inclusiveness, and demonstrated impact.
Examples of Qualifying Projects
land purchase to operate business
equipment purchase for business
down payment assistance on retail or studio space to operate business
infrastructure purchase for business
paying down existing business loan that was used for asset acquisition
Examples of Projects that DO NOT Qualify
program development (e.g. creating a workforce development training program)
hiring/training of employees or paying salaries
marketing materials for the business (e.g. building a website)
any personal purchases (e.g. personal vehicle, home mortgage/repairs, etc.)
misc. working capital/operations (e.g. small equipment purchases, maintenance, rent etc.)
How To Apply
Prepare for success:
Gather required documentation (tribal ID, income verification, business financials, and a detailed implementation plan).
Attend our Application Support Webinar on December 11, 2024, to gain insights and guidance.