Washington state is a premier business hub and the birthplace of industry giants like Amazon, Boeing, Costco, Expedia, Microsoft, and Starbucks. It offers favorable tax environment with no corporate or personal income tax. As a leader in clean energy, the state has a highly educated workforce and fosters innovation.

Why work with us

Why Choose Washington State?

Your Strategic Partner for U.S. Investment Success

Washington State offers more than just market access, we provide a powerful partnership. When companies work with the Washington State Department of Commerce, they gain a trusted advisor and connector at every stage of their investment journey. From site selection and incentives to permitting and talent recruitment, WA Commerce helps de-risk entry, accelerate timelines, and align public-sector support with private-sector goals.

As the state’s lead economic development agency, WA Commerce ensures you get the answers, access, and advocacy you need fast.

Why Washington? The Smart Choice for Global Companies

1. Gateway to the Pacific, Launchpad to the World

Washington is a globally connected state with deep roots in international trade. Strategically positioned on the U.S. West Coast, it offers:

• Direct access to Asia-Pacific markets
• Two deepwater ports (Seattle and Tacoma – part of the Northwest Seaport Alliance, the 4th largest in the U.S.)
• SEA International Airport – fastest-growing hub for international air cargo in North America
• Efficient road and rail infrastructure linking North America’s major supply chains

This makes Washington ideal for export-oriented industries, logistics-intensive sectors, and companies seeking to diversify their market reach.

2. Innovation Runs Deep and Broad

Washington is home to one of the most dynamic innovation ecosystems in the world. With global giants like Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, and Costco, and high-growth sectors including:

• Clean Technology & Renewable Energy
• Aerospace & Advanced Manufacturing
• Information & Communications Technology
• Life Sciences & Biotech
• AgriTech & Food Innovation

The state is a magnet for entrepreneurs, investors, and international businesses seeking to co-locate within high-performance industry clusters. Proximity to research universities (UW, WSU) and national labs (PNNL) adds R&D depth and collaboration opportunities.

3. Clean Energy Advantage, Powering the Future

Over 80% of Washington’s electricity comes from renewable sources, led by hydroelectric power. For companies focused on ESG goals, sustainable manufacturing, or energy-intensive operations (such as data centers or green hydrogen production), Washington offers:

• One of the lowest industrial electricity rates in the U.S.
• Access to clean, reliable, and abundant power
• A statewide commitment to carbon neutrality and climate leadership

Washington is not just aligned with the clean economy, it is helping define it.

4. Incentives That Support Growth

WA Commerce helps businesses navigate and unlock state and local programs, including:

• Sales & Use Tax Exemptions/Deferrals for manufacturing, R&D, data centers, and clean energy projects
• Pine Tree and rural county incentives supporting high-impact investment in underserved areas
• Customized workforce training funds, infrastructure grants, and site readiness programs
• Sector-specific credits for high-tech investment, aerospace tooling, alternative fuels, and more

Washington's incentive programs are strategic, not one-size-fits-all. WA Commerce works with you to identify the tools that match your project and timeline.

5. Talent, Workforce, and Quality of Life

With one of the most educated workforces in the nation, Washington provides deep talent pools in engineering, tech, life sciences, and skilled trades. Its communities attract global talent with:

• Diverse, multilingual populations
• Top-ranked education systems
• Vibrant cities and outdoor lifestyles
• Progressive values, inclusivity, and global connectivity

This translates into stronger employee retention, better innovation outcomes, and a resilient, future-ready workforce.

Partnering with WA Commerce: What You Can Expect

• Confidential, no-cost support from project start to successful launch
• Tailored site selection assistance with a focus on speed, value, and sustainability
• Facilitated introductions to utilities, workforce councils, universities, and regional partners
• Guidance on tax policy, permitting, and incentives, including help applying
• Ongoing aftercare to support expansion, hiring, and reinvestment

WA Commerce coordinates across state and local systems so you can focus on growing your business — not navigating bureaucracy.

Join a Community of Global Leaders

Over 700 international companies from 40+ countries have invested in Washington, including:

• Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
• Siemens
• Nintendo
• REC Silicon
• Novo Nordisk

Whether you’re scaling innovation, nearshoring production, or entering the U.S. market for the first time, Washington offers the foundation and the future.

Next Steps: Let’s Build Your U.S. Investment Strategy

The WA Commerce matchmaking portal is your personalized gateway to:

• Curated investment opportunities across 39 counties
• Regional economic profiles and workforce data
• Pre-vetted sites and industry clusters
• One-on-one meetings with local leaders and partners

We’re here to make your investment in Washington a success from day one.

Let’s connect. Let’s grow. Let’s build something extraordinary.