Rep. Stephanie Barnard’s bill positions Washington to compete for innovation-driven growth
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Rep. Stephanie Barnard’s bill positions Washington to compete for innovation-driven growth
As Washington faces slower job growth and increased competition from other states, economic development strategies that once worked are no longer enough. Communities across the state are competing for investment, innovation, and opportunity in an increasingly crowded national landscape, and without a more coordinated approach, Washington risks falling behind.
Washington cannot afford to stand still – and that’s where bipartisan House Bill 2186 comes in.
Rep. Stephanie Barnard, R-Pasco, has introduced HB 2186, known as the MATCHED bill, to modernize how Washington supports economic development and better position communities to compete for large-scale investments, including federal funding tied to innovation, infrastructure, workforce development, and emerging industries.
“For decades, Washington has been a place where big ideas turn into real jobs,” Barnard said. “From advanced research and technology to agriculture and manufacturing, innovation has always powered our economy. But other states are moving aggressively to capture federal investment, and Washington needs a smarter strategy if we want to compete and win.”
The MATCHED bill strengthens the state’s economic development framework by improving coordination and support for communities seeking competitive federal grants and other investment opportunities. While billions of federal dollars are available each year for economic development projects, many communities lack the matching resources or state-level coordination needed to successfully pursue them.
The legislation further defines the Department of Commerce’s role in identifying federal opportunities, supporting applicants, and prioritizing projects that deliver long-term economic value. The bill establishes clear criteria to guide decision-making, focusing on economic impact, job creation, regional balance, and projects that position Washington for future growth.
“Federal funding is increasingly tied to innovation, readiness, and coordination,” Barnard added. “My MATCHED bill helps ensure Washington communities aren’t boxed out simply because they don’t have the upfront resources or the bandwidth to navigate complex federal processes.”
The legislation also recognizes that innovation and opportunity extend beyond major population centers. By emphasizing support for rural and underserved communities, the MATCHED bill helps ensure economic growth reaches all corners of the state.
In addition, the bill calls for an independent analysis to better understand how Washington can more effectively align its economic development strategy with available federal opportunities and identify gaps that may be limiting the state’s competitiveness.
“Innovation isn’t abstract,” concluded Barnard. “It determines where jobs land, where talent stays, and whether communities across Washington can grow and thrive. My bill is about making sure we are prepared to compete, not just today, but for the future.”
HB 2186 received a public hearing in the House Technology, Economic Development, and Veterans Committee and remains under consideration.
