July 2025
Helping Renton Businesses Recycle and Compost Renton’s Waste Reduction Assistance for Businesses Program supports local businesses in meeting Washington’s new Organics Management Law, which requires food and yard waste separation by 2030. Currently, only 13% of business waste is composted or recycled.
Led by the City’s Public Works Department, the program offers free training, multilingual materials, signage, supplies, and service adjustments in partnership with Republic Services. It is part of Renton’s broader Zero Waste Plan.
Businesses can join the effort, reduce landfill waste, and potentially lower their garbage bills. Learn more and give feedback on the Zero Waste Plan by July 31 at yourvoice.rentonwa.gov/zero-waste-plan.
Introducing Paint with Purpose – A Community Mural Initiative: The City of Renton, in partnership with the Renton Municipal Arts Commission, is launching Paint with Purpose, a new mural program aimed at turning graffiti-impacted spaces into meaningful, community-driven art. This initiative pairs local artists with property owners to create murals that celebrate Renton’s identity and creativity, adding beauty and pride to key areas across the city.
We're currently looking for:
Learn more and apply at rentonwa.gov/publicart or email arts@rentonwa.gov.
Startup425 Eastside Summit 2: The second annual Startup425 Eastside Summit will be held on July 30, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Bellevue City Hall. Hosted during the Seattle TechWeek, this event connects entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders from the Eastside’s growing technology and startup sector. Attendees will enjoy panels, networking, and discussions with local policymakers, creating opportunities to learn, collaborate, and strengthen the regional startup ecosystem.
Best in the PNW is The Seattle Times’ annual contest celebrating top local businesses and services across the Pacific Northwest through community voting and recognition.
America's Top 100 Small Businesses: This program honors 100 top small and mid-sized businesses across the country. Applicants can compete for $25,000, connect with Daymond John in Washington, D.C., gain national recognition, and receive a free one-year U.S. Chamber membership.
Entrepreneur Networking Walk: The Entrepreneur Networking Walk is a casual event where founders and innovators meet at the Hyatt Regency Lake Washington, grab coffee or pastries, and set out at 9:15 AM for an easy stroll along the scenic Coulon Beach Park trail. Held on July 23, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, the walk offers a relaxed way to connect, share ideas, and enjoy lake views together.
Renton Chamber of Commerce Drop-In Business Coaching: If you are starting a business, looking to grow, or need help solving a challenge, schedule a free 30-minute session with a business coach. Drop-in coaching is available on July 10, 2025, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM at the Renton Chamber of Commerce. You can reserve your spot online.
Government Contracting: This free SBA Seattle webinar on July 16, 2025, offers an overview of federal contracting programs, certifications, and resources to help small businesses compete for government contracts.
2025 RMAC Arts & Culture Grant Applications Now Open
The Renton Municipal Arts Commission (RMAC) is offering grants ranging from $500 to $10,000 to support arts and culture projects happening in 2025. These grants are open to individuals, organizations, and community groups aiming to make Renton’s cultural scene more vibrant and inclusive, especially for underserved communities.
All projects must be completed by December 15, 2025. Applications are due by 4:30 p.m. on July 18, 2025, and must be submitted electronically.
For details and to apply, visit the RMAC grant guidelines.
Cut Costs and Boost Efficiency with a Free Energy Assessment: Saving money on your energy bills can be as simple as saying yes. Puget Sound Energy is offering a free small business energy assessment that comes with immediate benefits. Once you agree to the assessment, their team will install no-cost and low-cost energy-saving upgrades such as LED lighting and water-saving aerators, with no disruption to your business operations.
In addition to the on-site upgrades, you will receive personalized recommendations and information on available rebates to help you save even more in the long run.
The result is lower energy bills, a more comfortable space for your customers and employees, and a positive step toward sustainability.
If you are interested, contact Caroline Kim at caroline.kim@pse.com to see if your business qualifies.
Enjoy free live music at Renton’s Summer Concert Series on the Kidd Valley Stage at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park. Concerts take place on select Thursdays, including July 10, July 31, and August 14, featuring family-friendly performances by the lake.
Renton Farmers Market Returns in a New Location for 2025: The Renton Farmers Market is back for the 2025 season, with a temporary new home while Piazza Park undergoes construction. Starting June 3 through September 30, the market will take place every Tuesday from 3 to 7 p.m. on Williams Avenue, between South Second and South Third Streets, just one block east of its usual spot. Learn more at rentonfarmersmarket.com.
Renton River Days is a free three-day festival from July 25 to 27, 2025, featuring live music, a parade, food trucks, a drone show, art activities, and family entertainment across several parks in Renton.
The 2025 WEDA Summer Conference: will be held August 11 to 13 at Hotel Murano in Tacoma. Economic development, government, business, and community leaders will gather to hear from expert speakers and legislators, explore tools for local economic growth, and network. The event includes a special reception at the Museum of Glass. Discounted hotel rates are available until July 21.
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