Ballard business owner vying for $10,000 grant

Ballard small business owner Krista Nelson is a finalist in the Umpqua Bank Made to Grow grant contest and needs local support.

Nelson owns and operates Krista’s Baking Co. in Ballard, a small business that makes baking mixes using local organic ingredients. Customers purchase the recipe kits (pictured above) filled with all of the ingredients and directions needed for the “anti-baker” to bake to perfection.

“The mixes are your chance to show off your culinary skills. I’ll help with the measuring and instructions to ensure that you don’t burn your house down, despite life’s many distractions. Some may say you can’t boil water, but this is your chance to prove them wrong,” writes Nelson on her website.

Nelson is one of only 10 finalists in the contest on the west coast and is the only finalist from Seattle. Locals are able to vote online once a day for Krista’s Baking Co. through June 10 to help her secure the grant.

“This grant would get help me to get my product into stores and local farmers markets. It could also get me to a spot where I am able to move into a larger warehouse space, and hey, maybe hire an employee,” says Nelson.

Krista’s Baking Co. is currently closely trailing first place by approximately 100 votes. Click here to cast your vote.

Krista’s Baking Co. is also hosting a Lavender Pop-up event this Sunday, June 7, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Ketch (5317 Ballard Ave NW). Stroll through the Sunday Ballard Farmers Market and stop in to try samples of the new lavender sugar cookie mix, sip on lavender lemonade or cold brew coffee.