WSU Tri-Cities Cougar Tracks Launches Resilient Business Builders Network To Strengthen Small Business Leadership In The Tri-Cities - 02/05/26
RICHLAND, WA — Washington State University Tri-Cities’ Cougar Tracks professional development program is proud to announce the launch of the Resilient Business Builders Network (RBBN)—a future-focused professional development initiative designed to support small businesses, entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders across the Tri-Cities region.
Positioned as a community of practice, RBBN delivers hands-on professional development workshops that address real-world business challenges, from scaling operations and developing talent to clarifying brand identity and navigating complexity. The program reflects Cougar Tracks’ growing role as the regional educational partner for small business development, bridging higher education, industry expertise and community investment.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our regional economy,” said Michelle Hrycauk Nassif, director of Cougar Tracks at WSU Tri-Cities. “Through Cougar Tracks, we are building a long-term support system where local businesses can access relevant training, trusted expertise and strategic guidance—while also shaping what workforce development looks like next in the Tri-Cities.”
Industry Collaboration & Community Investment
The Resilient Business Builders Network is made possible through strong partnerships with regional organizations committed to economic vitality and workforce growth—with potential cost-saving benefits available to members of certain partnering entities. For example:
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Richland Chamber of Commerce members may qualify for full cost reimbursement through the Chamber’s Business Boost Grant, reducing barriers to participation and accelerating business impact.
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City of Pasco residents and businesses are eligible to apply for Workforce Training Scholarships through Cougar Tracks, expanding access to professional development opportunities across the region.
“These partnerships reflect a shared commitment to investing in people, businesses and the future of our local economy,” added Nassif.
Built By—and For—Regional Businesses
What sets RBBN apart is its co-creation model. Session topics are directly informed by participating businesses, ensuring workshops remain timely, relevant and practical. By joining the Network, participants help shape future offerings—creating a responsive learning environment that evolves alongside the needs of the regional business community. Quarterly sessions are designed for hands-on learning and immediate application—so participants will leave with clear strategies, templates, and a next-step action plan they can put to work right away.
Program Launch Details
The inaugural workshop series will be led by RBBN ambassador and WSU alum Brian Moreno (MBA), a Tri-Cities entrepreneur and small business owner with a professional background in real estate development, hospitality and leadership consulting. He'll be focusing on cultivating resilience across all aspects of business—operations, people, brand and strategy.
That series will begin this April and include four professional development sessions hosted on the WSU Tri-Cities campus. The program is open to small business owners, entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders and professionals managing small teams.
A Long-Term Vision for Regional Impact
As WSU Tri-Cities Cougar Tracks continues to expand its industry-aligned programming, RBBN represents a broader vision: positioning WSU Tri-Cities as the go-to educational partner for small businesses seeking to grow, adapt and lead in a rapidly changing economy.
“This is not a one-time program—it’s a long-term commitment to our region,” Nassif said. “Cougar Tracks is here to walk alongside small businesses as they build resilience today and prepare for what’s next.”
Learn more, apply for scholarships, or register on the Cougar Tracks website:
About Cougar Tracks
Cougar Tracks is the continuing education and workforce development arm of Washington State University Tri-Cities. Through industry-driven programs, community partnerships and accessible learning opportunities, Cougar Tracks connects education to real-world impact—supporting professionals, businesses and communities across the Tri-Cities region.