Seattle agencies cut small business paperwork

The Port of Seattle and King County are partnering to lessen the amount of paperwork required for small businesses to qualify as a small business vendor for the two agencies.

Through a recently adopted agreement, small businesses that qualify as Small Contractors and Suppliers can fill out one application to work with both agencies, and county staff will continue to certify applicants for the SCS program.

“The port is always looking for ways to expand opportunities for small businesses,” said Tay Yoshitani, Port of Seattle chief executive officer. “And most businesses and government agencies would like to reduce administrative costs. This agreement helps us reach both goals.”

The port will share the costs of the joint certification process, which will be managed by King County staff. “Our goal is to ensure that all business owners in the region have the chance to do business with us,” said Luis Navarro, director of the port’s Office of Social Responsibility.