Local Investment Networks Around Washington

The Association of Washington Cities (AWC) saw an opportunity to help other Washington communities when they learned about LION and the positive impact on our local economy.  As a result, AWC’s Center for Quality Communities (CQC) partnered with Washington State University’s Extension Office to bring local investment networks (LIN) to cities and towns across the state. 

Visit the AWC-CQC website to learn how they can help your community create a local investment network or to explore their jointly developed DIY resources.

Another partner, Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA), hosted several webinars in 2020 featuring Michael H Shuman and WA LINs. Interestingly, it was Michael’s early work that inspired LION, so we have come full circle! 

• How To Mobilize Grassroots Investors for Washington’s Post-COVID Reconstruction
• Growing Local Investment Networks
• Rebuilding Better: Local Investment Networks (LINs) and The Post-COVID Economy

In March 2021, WSMA provided scholarships to existing and emerging Local Investment Networks to attend Michael Shuman’s “Local Investment 101” four-week class. WSMA will offer scholarships again in March 2022. 

Through this collaboration, the group has formed a Community of Practice that now meets monthly to share best practice, resources, and opportunities to present information to communities throughout Washington.

If you are an existing network and want to join these monthly meetings or if you want to talk with someone about starting a new Local Investment Network in your area, contact Anthony Gromko, Washington State University Extension: anthony.gromko@wsu.edu or 971-732-4155.