CACCWA CRP Blended Capital Program

CACCWA CRP Blended Capital Program

This initiative offers matching funds to support businesses financially by helping them build assets for operational growth.

  • Application Open: May 02, 2025
  • Application Due: May 18, 2025 at 5:00 PM
  • Information Session Webinar: May 08, 2025 at 6PM.  Registration Here

❓Questions can be directed to sreymom.pech@caccwa.org or nathalie.chan@caccwa.org

This funding is made possible through the Community Reinvestment Project, supported by the Greater Tacoma Community Foundation (GTCF) in partnership with the Washington State Department of Commerce SBRN, providing existing small businesses with additional capital to acquire and secure essential assets for operational growth.

1. Overview

The Cambodian American Community Council of Washington (CACCWA), in partnership with the Washington State Department of Commerce’s Small Business Resiliency Network, the Community Reinvestment Project (CRP), and the Greater Tacoma Community Foundation (GTCF), is excited to launch the Blended Capital Assistance Program. 

This program allows CACCWA to continue providing meaningful access to capital for underserved small businesses across Washington. This initiative is designed to provide financial support to small businesses by helping them acquire essential assets to enhance their operations. Whether you need new or upgrade equipment, we’re here to help you make it happen.

2. Program Success So Far

From May to June 2025, the CACCWA CRP Blended Capital Program successfully deployed $33,750 in grants, supporting 19 local businesses across Washington State. These grants have been crucial in providing existing small businesses with additional capital to acquire and secure essential assets for operational growth and stability.

3. Program Highlights

  • Total Grant Funding Awarded: $33,750
  • Businesses Supported: 19
  • Funding Model: Tiered Contribution (Business + CACCWA Partnership)
  • Max CACCWA Funding per Business: $2,100 (Micro), $1,800 (Small), $1,500 (Medium)

4. How It Works

The program follows a tiered contribution model, where CACCWA provides big partial funding based on business size and financial need, while the business contributes a small percentage of the asset cost. It’s a win-win partnership to boost future operations.

5. How Businesses Used the Awarded Fund

Small businesses used their awards to invest in essential assets that enhance daily operations and support business growth. The Purchases included kitchen upgrades, furniture, mobile food stall equipment, technology devices, beauty and spa tools, and material handling equipment.

These investments help businesses:

✅ Expand product and service offerings

✅ Improve operational efficiency

✅ Serve more customers

✅ Increase sales and revenue

✅ Build long-term resilience

5. How Businesses Used the Awarded Fund

Small businesses used their awards to invest in essential assets that enhance daily operations and support business growth. The Purchases included kitchen upgrades, furniture, mobile food stall equipment, technology devices, beauty and spa tools, and material handling equipment.

These investments help businesses:

✅ Expand product and service offerings

✅ Improve operational efficiency

✅ Serve more customers

✅ Increase sales and revenue

✅ Build long-term resilience

6. Counties & Communities Served

The program has strengthened businesses across five counties, including:

  • King County (Seattle, Kent, Redmond, Federal Way)
  • Pierce County (Tacoma, Gig Harbor, Sumner)
  • Snohomish County (Mukilteo, Everett, Lynnwood)
  • Clark County (Camas)
  • Thurston County (Olympia)

For those awarded businesses, there are 11 Asian women-owned businesses, 7 Asian immigrant-owned businesses, and 1 African American-owned business.

7. Tangible Business Outcomes

  • Increased Revenue – Upgraded equipment allowed businesses to serve more customers efficiently.
  • Improved Customer Experience – Enhanced facilities led to higher satisfaction and repeat business.
  • Operational Efficiency – Modern appliances reduced costs and streamlined workflows.
  • Job Creation – Several businesses expanded their teams due to increased demand.

Success Stories: CACCWA CRP Blended Capital Program

Success Stories: CACCWA CRP Blended Capital Program

Launching a Market Business in Tukwila

One inspiring story comes from a newly opened business in Tukwila. Without a storefront of their own, the owners relied on renting time in a commercial kitchen for just five hours a day. They dreamed of joining local market events to grow their business, but lacked the equipment to get started.

When CACCWA introduced them to the Blended Capital Program, they were excited for the opportunity. With the support they received, they were able to purchase the equipment they needed like Coolers, Outdoor Fan, Food Display Container, Top Wash Station, Folding Table, Instant Canopy Tent, Food Warmer, Pop Up Canopy Tent, Deep Fryer Cart, Rice Cooker, Meat Slicer Machine, Soup Warmer Pot, and Heating Potto. Since then, they’ve officially launched their business at local markets, gaining valuable exposure, reaching new customers, and proudly sharing their cultural flavors with the community.

This story highlights the powerful impact of small, flexible investments in helping early-stage entrepreneurs take meaningful steps toward long-term growth.

Preserving Heritage Through Innovation for Business in Pioneer Square

One of the standout success stories from the CACCWA CRP Blended Capital Program comes from a Fast Casual Cafe in Pioneer Square that has been passionately serving the community, one hand-brewed cup at a time. For the past two years, this small, community-rooted business has used traditional phin filters to craft every cup of coffee that is a method rich in cultural heritage and flavor.

While this approach reflects the heart and authenticity of their brand, it also became increasingly challenging as demand and customer volume grew. Preparing each drink by hand was time-consuming and physically demanding. It began to place a strain on their daily operations and their team. They realized that in order to continue serving their community at the level they deserved, they needed support to grow without compromising their identity.

That is when they turned to the CACCWA CRP Blended Capital Program for support.

With funding from the program, they were able to acquire a commercial espresso that marked a turning point from this essential upgrade. This new equipment allows them to improve service efficiency, reduce customer wait times, and ease the daily workload for their team. Most importantly, they can continue delivering high-quality drinks without sacrificing the cultural identity at the core of their business.

This grant wasn’t just about upgrading machinery, it was about investing in their future. By blending innovation with tradition, they’ve strengthened their ability to grow while staying true to their roots. They will be brewing more cups, supporting more employees, and sharing Vietnamese coffee culture with an even wider community all because of this pivotal opportunity.

They are deeply grateful to CACCWA CRP for believing in small businesses like them and providing the resources to thrive. With this foundation, they are not just preserving tradition, they’re building a sustainable, scalable legacy.

Technology Upgrades Help Restaurant Thrive in Seattle’s International District

Running a restaurant in the heart of Seattle’s International District is both a privilege and a challenge. This small business serves a vibrant, diverse community and takes great pride in offering food that brings people together. But like many small businesses, they have faced significant struggles behind the scenes.

Their iPads, which are used daily for taking orders and processing payments, had become outdated. The battery life barely lasted a full shift, often dying during peak hours and causing service delays. On top of that, they recently experienced a break-in, and their POS printer was stolen which was another unexpected setback in an already demanding business.

Through the CACCWA CRP Blended Capital Program, they received the support needed to make critical technology upgrades. They are now replacing their old iPads and purchasing MacBooks. These tools are essential for running daily operations more smoothly and efficiently. From handling online orders and managing inventory to engaging with customers and creating marketing content, this technology allows them to stay organized and competitive in an increasingly digital world.

More than just convenience, these upgrades mean better service, smoother operations, and more time to focus on what they love: cooking great food and connecting with our community.

For this restaurant, these upgrades are about more than just convenience. It means better service, smoother operations, and more time to focus on what truly matters: cooking great food and connecting with their community.

Thanks to the CACCWA CRP Blended Capital Program, they are not just recovering, they are moving forward. This program is helping small businesses like theirs grow stronger, smarter, and more resilient.

Business’s quote for CACCWA: “CACCWA was always very quick to respond and made this process so easy. Thank you all so much.”

Bubble Tea Business Expands with Summer Catering Launch

This summer marks an exciting milestone for a bubble tea business in Tacoma as they prepare to roll out their brand-new catering services. Known for their vibrant drinks and welcoming service, the business is now stepping into a new phase of growth by bringing their delicious offerings directly to events, parties, and community gatherings.

Like many small businesses, they faced challenges getting ready for this expansion. Without the proper tools, catering wasn’t feasible. But with the help of the CACCWA CRP Blended Capital Program, they were able to replace damaged equipment and invest in key items like a refrigerator, coolers, and new tables, everything they needed to be event-ready.

These upgrades are more than just equipment, but they’re a turning point. The business is now well-prepared to handle large orders, keep products fresh, and serve customers efficiently, even during the busiest times. The support they received has not only helped them gear up for the summer rush but also boosted their confidence as they expand their services.

Thanks to the CACCWA CRP Blended Capital program, this local favorite is moving forward with strength, ready to share their unique flavors with even more people in the community.

Business’s quote for CACCWA: “Working with CACCWA was wonderful! They work and guide me through the application and if I miss something they would reach out to me and will go above and beyond to help get what I need or miss on the application. I really appreciate their help.”