Business Advising Services

Raised in Sequim with deep roots and strong community ties, Justine brings a broad range of experience. With a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Idaho, she has spent the past eight years building a successful career in the security industry, developing expertise in human resources, scheduling, operations, sales, marketing, and customer service. Driven by a passion for supporting local businesses and strengthening the economic fabric of the North Olympic Peninsula, she is committed to long-term community prosperity. In her work as an APEX Counselor, she leverages her hands-on experience across multiple business functions to guide businesses toward growth and resilience for regional economic success.

Kit is the Executive Director of a well-known local nonprofit and specializes in operational strategizing—helping businesses align tasks, spaces, people, and resources to work more effectively and profitably. She is also a construction manager in Port Townsend, with hands-on experience in residential remodels and construction projects, both independently and with her family. Her leadership experience, combined with a background in finance, bookkeeping, and real estate development, informs her practical support of local businesses operating within tight budgets and competing priorities. Kit holds a Master’s degree in Educational Administration with a focus on adult learning, and her background in human services and the nonprofit sector strengthens her ability to counsel clients with clarity and care.

George C. Sawyer has worked in software, intellectual property, and consulting, with a focus on sales, training, and business development across global markets. He now lives in Jefferson County, where he volunteers with the Master Gardener program, supports small business owners as a mentor, and contributes to local food justice efforts through the Swan Farm Food Bank Garden. Earlier in his life, he was one of the original members of the MIT Blackjack Team.

Devin has served as a bilingual Business Advisor for the Center for Inclusive Entrepreneurship (CIE), focusing on Food Business and community outreach for the Olympic Peninsula, and offering one-on-one advising to aspiring entrepreneurs. His passion for the food industry and his background in entrepreneurship as the owner of a restaurant and catering company make him an excellent fit for the role of Business Advisor with a focus on food businesses. Devin’s experience enables him to coach and mentor entrepreneurs through the different stages of business development, from exploring a business idea, developing a go-to-market strategy, and accessing funding, to growing a team.

Raised in Port Townsend with over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry, Charlotte has dedicated her career to empowering others through her work as a stylist, salon owner, and brand educator. Her journey has been fueled by a passion for creativity and a commitment to excellence. As an advisor she is leverages that expertise to support local business owners and foster a thriving economy. Her goal is to provide resources and mentorship that help entrepreneurs achieve their dreams, elevate their businesses, and contribute to a more vibrant and prosperous Port Townsend.

The Washington Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is a network of more than 40 business advisors working in communities across the state to help entrepreneurs or small business owners start, grow or buy/sell a business. SBDC advisors provide one-on-one, confidential, no-cost advising on all phases of small business development and are often co-located with economic development specialists in community colleges, economic development agencies or government agencies. Other services of the Washington SBDC include no-cost or low-cost workshops on a variety of business topics and customized market research services.