$50K T-Mobile grant sparks new launchpad for downtown Walla Walla entrepreneurs

By Dan Thesman on Tuesday, July 14th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

WALLA WALLA — Local economic development received a major boost Saturday as the Downtown Walla Walla Foundation was awarded a $50,000 T-Mobile Hometown Grant to launch a new business incubator program.

The funding will be used to establish the Walla Walla Launchpad, an initiative designed to lower barriers for local entrepreneurs looking to start or expand businesses in the historic downtown district. Developed by the foundation’s Economic Vitality Committee, the project aims to address common small-business hurdles, including startup costs, long-term planning, and finding flexible real estate.

Mallory Nash, executive director of the Downtown Walla Walla Foundation, accepted the grant alongside her team during a community celebration at Heritage Square.

“Starting or growing a business downtown comes with real challenges, including cost, visibility, and customer access,” the foundation stated on its website. “Walla Walla Launchpad is designed to help reduce those barriers while creating a more flexible way to connect entrepreneurs with downtown opportunities.”

The committee behind the incubator includes local board members, business development experts, and higher education partners who will assist participants with local investment and mentorship strategies.

More details regarding the incubator’s application process, timeline, and participant opportunities are expected to be released in the coming weeks. Additional information can be found at downtownwallawalla.org/walla-walla-launchpad.

File photo of downtown Walla Walla