Matchstick Lab emerged from Vibe Coworks, Kitsap’s leading shared workspace. While Vibe created a thriving hub for entrepreneurs, innovators, and investors, we saw the need for more.
Since 2018, Vibe has offered free business workshops and events, despite these programs extending beyond its core coworking model. Through this, we identified the need for peer-driven programming, accessible education, networking, and better access to capital to build a stronger innovation ecosystem.
In 2023, Vibe introduced the Matchstick Lab brand to address these needs and enhance support for local entrepreneurs. Early programming under Matchstick Lab was made possible through collaboration and funding from organizations including Kitsap Bank, the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA), Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA), and WWU Small Business Development Center.
Kitsap Bank was the first corporate partner, sponsoring office space at Vibe Coworks under the Matchstick Lab name, and providing matching funding to support the inaugural Matchstick Lab Micro Business Accelerator cohort.
In 2024, Vibe Coworks reached an agreement with the Kitsap Community Foundation (KCF) to serve as Matchstick Lab’s legal fiscal sponsor, providing financial and administrative support, and leveraging the Foundation’s tax-exempt status to enhance Matchstick Lab’s capabilities.
As part of this agreement, Startup Kitsap, launched by Vibe Coworks founder Alanna Imbach and Vibe members Brett Eddy and Ed Hallda in 2018, was dissolved into Matchstick Lab to further strengthen support for Kitsap’s entrepreneurial community.