HB 1474 - DIGEST

     Finds that efforts to increase economic opportunity for residents of economically distressed communities must involve a collaborative effort between community and business development agencies, individual businesses, financial institutions, public sector agencies, institutions of higher education, and community residents.

     Declares an intent to support institutions of higher education in the establishment of collaborative efforts to provide technical assistance designed to increase economic opportunities for residents of economically distressed communities.

     Establishes a joint pilot project, between the University of Washington's business and economic development program and Washington State University's small business development center, designed to provide technical assistance to small business in economically distressed communities.

     Makes appropriations to carry out the purposes of the act.