Business Advising
In partnership with Washington Small Business Development Center (SBDC), U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and Washington State University, we now offer advising to businesses in Kittitas County on behalf of the Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce.
About the Small Business Development Center
The Washington Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is a network of more than 30 expert business advisors working in communities across the state to help entrepreneurs or small business owners start, grow or buy/sell a business.
SBDC advisors provide one-on-one, confidential, no-cost advising on all phases of small business development and are often co-located with economic development specialists in community colleges, economic development agencies or government agencies. Other services of the Washington SBDC include no-cost or low-cost workshops on a variety of business topics and customized market research services.
The Washington SBDC, a member of the national America’s SBDC program, is governed by a cooperative agreement between Washington State University, which is the statewide host of the program, and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
Mission
Helping Washington businesses grow and succeed through advising, education and research.
Vision
To be Washington’s world-class business advising service.
Values
Innovation – We educate and empower businesses to develop creative solutions, data driven decisions and best practices.
Integrity – We embrace responsible stewardship of public resources and serve the best interest of Washington businesses.
Collaboration – We cultivate partnerships to ensure entrepreneurs have the resources and tools to thrive.
Connect With Our Local SCORE Business Mentor
Randall Dixon – SCORE Business Mentor
Randall Dixon brings decades of leadership, financial expertise, and business development experience to his role as a SCORE mentor. With a deep commitment to enabling success for businesses and individuals, Randall specializes in guiding entrepreneurs through the complexities of strategic planning, financial analysis, and organizational development.
Throughout his distinguished career, Randall served as President and CEO of Energy Capital Credit Union for nearly three decades, leading the organization from $35 million in assets to over $230 million. His innovative approach to financial services, including the creation of four credit union service organizations (CUSOs), has supported over 150 credit unions across multiple states. Under his leadership, Energy Capital Credit Union received numerous awards, including the Five Star Bauer Financial Services Award for 13 consecutive years and recognition as one of Houston's top credit unions.
Randall’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond his corporate career. As the owner of Rockin R Consulting, he provided executive coaching and career development to senior leaders. In addition, his extensive community involvement includes mentoring economically disadvantaged individuals, promoting financial literacy, and participating in collaborative initiatives with organizations like the Federal Reserve Bank and Cornerstone Credit Union League.
Randall holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Lamar University and completed advanced studies at the CUNA Management School. He is also a Credit Union Developmental Educator, a testament to his lifelong dedication to education and professional development.
Now residing in Ronald, Washington, Randall leverages his wealth of experience to empower SCORE clients, helping them navigate challenges and achieve their business goals.
Need Support? Visit with local Business Advisor Barry Schoening!
Barry Schoening, Business Advisor
Washington SBDC
Barry.Schoening@wsbdc.org
509-992-0602
Barry Schoening, a former small business owner with more than 35 years’ experience in mortgages and securities, is the new Small Business Development Center (SBDC) business advisor in Kittitas County. Shoening’s office is located at the Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce in Cle Elum and he is available to meet in person or via Zoom with small business advisors and entrepreneurs throughout the region.
“SBDC one-to-one business advising has been crucial for the Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce and businesses in Kittitas County,” said Amy McGuffin, Chief Executive Officer of the Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce. “I look forward to working with the new advisor, Barry Schoening, and I encourage local businesses to connect with the Chamber and the SBDC to get confidential and trusted assistance for their business.”
Schoening joins more than 40 other SBDC business advisors working in communities across the state to provide no-cost, confidential, one-on-one advising to entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to start, grow or buy/sell a business. “Barry’s commitment to small business success, his calm and positive demeanor, his knowledge of the intricacies of various company types, and his experience as a former small business owner in a unique industry make him a welcome addition to our team,” said Washington SBDC State Director Sheryl McGrath.
Schoening, who graduated from WSU with a degree in business administration, was co-owner of Central Securities LLC from 2003 to 2019. Then, after enjoying several years of retirement, he began looking for a second career. “I was looking for an opportunity to use my accounting and finance background in a way that would be rewarding and enjoyable at the same time,” Schoening said. “Helping small business owners achieve their goals certainly checks those boxes.” Shoening started his career in accounting and mortgage banking and then got into the securities industry, specifically bond trading. Banking and the securities industry touches all factors of the business community, he said.
Connect with Barry in Kittitas County today! Fill out this intake form to get started.
