Washington State Department of Commerce designated a Craft Brewing & Distilling Innovation Partnership Zone (IPZ). This partnership was developed to advance craft brewing, distilling, and cider-making in the region. It is strong on education and workforce development, entrepreneurship, industry, research, and public partners to accelerate economic advancement and innovation. Spearheaded by the Thurston Economic Development Council (EDC), plus South Puget Sound Community College, School of Food Science at Washington State University/University of Idaho, the City of Tumwater and a platform of local brewers, cider-makers, and distillers. The application was supported by the cities of Olympia and Lacey, and the Port of Olympia. The work of the IPZ is based in industry. Programs are developed around customized industry needs, and more importantly, the business behind it. Find more about Washington State’s Innovation Partnership Zones.