Thurston County’s investor-backed economic development strategy produced $71.1 million in economic impact in 2024, creating hundreds of jobs and delivering a strong return on investment, according to the Thurston Economic Development Council (EDC).
The latest figures highlight how a collaborative funding model is reshaping the local economy. The EDC reported that every $1 invested by its network of supporters generated $22.86 in economic activity for the county. That activity created 380 jobs and added $25.9 million in labor income for workers in the past year alone.
Since 2019, the strategy has delivered nearly $1 billion in cumulative economic value, supported the creation of more than 3,800 jobs, and contributed $256.9 million in labor income.
“Investor support allows us to expand programs and services that help businesses not only survive but grow,” the EDC said in its annual report. “The return on this investment demonstrates the tangible impact of a coordinated strategy.”
The investor network spans tribal enterprises, healthcare providers, private companies, and community organizations. Their contributions enable the EDC to expand core services in business retention and expansion, entrepreneurship, workforce development, and policy engagement.
One of the most anticipated projects is the Agricultural Business & Innovation Park in Tenino, slated to open in winter 2025. The facility will provide infrastructure for small food-based businesses, helping to diversify the regional economy and strengthen Thurston County’s agricultural sector.
Alongside large-scale projects, the EDC continues to deliver specialized programs such as MakerSpace, APEX Accelerator, and ScaleUp, while expanding resources for women entrepreneurs. These initiatives provide practical support for startups and established companies, offering access to training, mentorship, and growth capital.
With its investor-backed model, the EDC positions Thurston County as a competitive and resilient economy in Washington state. Leaders say the focus remains on long-term growth by diversifying industries, raising wages, and ensuring businesses have the tools to adapt in a changing market.
