Vibrant Community Attracts Organic Soap Company

As Washington's only certified organic maker of bar and liquid soaps, Ben Busby-Collins, owner of Ballard Organics, is realizing what makes his business successful. Moving from Ballard to its new location in Rainier Valley, the community resources that he has received from the Rainier Valley Community Development Fund (CDF) is the key reason to his fast growing success.

Busby-Collins, a natural entrepreneur, started his soap-making business in April 2005. After many years of experience in soap making as a hobby, it was a natural step for Busby-Collins to pursue the business opportunity further. As he looked for potential locations to expand, the Rainier Valley district was the perfect fit due to its convenient location. More importantly, the vibrant spirit and energy that he felt from the area fit well with his employee recruitment practice of reaching out into one's community. For example, the seven current employees were all within his network. Why? Because it is all about community in order to achieve success and the collective effort among an integrated team.

Since 2007, the company has experienced doubling in sales. It quickly became apparent that in order to fulfill large-scale orders, a business loan was essential. Busby-Collins looked into seven different banks for a business loan. They all came back with the same answer – there was not enough collateral within the business, thus a loan was not feasible.

The solution was discovered right in the heart of Rainier Valley. The team at CDF worked closely with Busby-Collins on setting and reaching achievable business goals for Ballard Organics. CDF's consultation services provided Busby-Collins with the necessary loan to buy equipment, hire employees, obtain the warehouse and increase inventory. In addition, he received specialized one-on-one support from the CDF staff. “It wasn't just getting a loan from a bank. It was much more than that,” commented Busby-Collins.

One example was the recommendation from the staff to purchase two 1,350 gallons tanks to produce the soap. By doubling its production capacity, Ballard Organics will have the ability to fulfill large-scale orders and pursue long-term business opportunities. “Working with CDF sets my business for success because they want you to be successful,” says Busby-Collins.

For fellow small business owners who are interested in the vast resources from CDF, Busby-Collins advises the necessity of providing complete financial information about your business. Persistence and patience is key. While it may be a lengthy process on the front end, it is well worth it to partner with CDF. By investing in your community, you will see the rewards.

The Rainier Valley Community Development Fund provides economic development for local residents, businesses and developers through its loan programs.

Photographer:  Flyright Productions