The first step toward getting a share of the $2 billion in goods in services needed by the 2010 Winter Olympics is to actually make an effort, according to the Washington Association of Business. Most companies haven't even considered the potential market, the group said. Small firms should set their sights on being vendors to larger companies operating in Canada, and Washington companies need to start looking for ways to draw visitors through the state.
While they're at it, the AWB, which functions as a state chamber of commerce, asks the state government for four things:
-- Expedited cross-border travel.
-- Improvements for travelers. For example, a rest area for people waiting on the U.S. side at Blaine.
-- State help matching small businesses with Canadian counterparts.
-- An actual effort to draw visitors into the state.
The list doesn't mention improved transportation. While there are several road improvements ongoing near the border, traffic is assured if there is any significant spillover from the games. Why doesn't the AWB push for expanded passenger train service, a Seattle-Vancouver-Squamish ferry and smoother airport customs?
To get businesses on board, the Washington State Department of Community Trade and Economic Development (CTED) scheduled meetings around the state beginning March 21 to bring state business owners, trade officials and the Governor's 2010 Olympics Task Force.