The Economic Development Association of Skagit County (EDASC) would like to extend a warm welcome — and promise of assistance — to those wishing to learn more about Skagit County as a business destination. We're also here to assist local businesses and companies and help keep them healthy and growing.

The Economic Development Association of Skagit County is a local agency that assists businesses in a number of ways; by holding seminars and workshops, providing one-on-one counseling, hosting networking events, and providing demographics and information. EDASC works with companies that are relocating or expanding to Skagit County; local companies that are expanding or starting up; or companies that are working to retain jobs. EDASC hosts several programs including the Business Recruitment Program, the Business Retention/Expansion (BRE) Program, the Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) Program, and also provides business counseling for the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Program. EDASC also hosts the Latino Business Retention Expansion Program. EDASC also participates in an exciting program called Leadership Skagit in partnership with Skagit Valley College and Washington State University.

Skagit County (population 104,754) is situated in the northwestern part of Western Washington, and is located 60 miles north of Seattle and 80 miles south of  Vancouver, British Columbia.

Skagit County is accessible by several modes of transportation. Major highways, railroads, marine ports, and airports are located in the area, making it an ideal location for business sites and a convenient destination for travelers.

Agriculture is an important part of Skagit County. In the spring and summer months crops such as potatoes, corn, cucumbers, broccoli, and cauliflower can be seen. The abundance of local produce grown here also includes delicious fruit, such as apples, strawberries, raspberries and blueberries. The annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, which takes place in April, draws people from all over the world with its colorful variety of tulips and other spring flowers.

EDASC also has been collaborating with Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland in developing an Agricultural Marketing Program for Skagit growers. Holly Freishtat is the Agricultural Marketing Director. Click here to see a presentation on the Farm to Healthcare Pilot Project.

The Skagit County area has an excellent public school system, with over 18,500 students enrolled in elementary, middle, and high schools. All teachers in the state of Washington are required to have a four-year BA degree as well as a fifth year of training. The county also offers excellent parochial schools, day care centers, and specialized training, such as dance and gymnastics schools.

Contact us if you are a local business seeking assistance, or a company considering doing business in the Pacific Northwest.

This document was printed from The Economic Development Association of Skagit County's website, www.skagit.org, on Tuesday, September 7, 2010.