The Tacoma Art Museum was the venue for April’s Chamber After Hours with Georgio’s Catering providing a comfort style food buffet dinner, a well-stocked bar, and even custom branded cookies for attendees to enjoy. During a regular day at the museum, you may mistake the room where the reception was held for a simple wall, but the wall is a huge sliding door that opens to a private room that can accommodate many styles of meetings. It has brightly colored soft seating and greenery to contrast the monochrome interior. The pull-down screen had a slideshow projected on, which flipped through the many offerings of TAM, including a monthly yoga meet up, every Thursday being free to attend, and more. It was many guests’ first Chamber After Hours, and for some it was the first time in a long time that they had been to the Art Museum. Luckily, they were able to take advantage of the opportunity and walked through the halls filled with the creative work of hundreds of artists. The Tacoma Art Museum is a wonderful addition to the museum walk that Tacoma is lucky to have. Just a short walk from the Link Union Station, and open Wednesday through Sunday, go check out this unique museum! If you were unable to make this month’s Chamber After Hours, you can join us in May for the After Hours at our very own Chamber Office. Registration is required and limited due to the capacity restraints. Sign up early to be sure to make it!
Welcome to all the new members who joined our business community in February 2024:
The Chamber’s annual Horizons Economic Forecast event took place on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, and saw over 400 guests in attendance! The program featured expert economists, industry executives, and local business leaders to candidly discuss the economic outlook of 2024, as well as offer insights and advice to business owners. Some of the top topics on everyone’s mind this year were workforce, interest rates, and community investments. The event speakers covered these topics and more through presentations and live discussions. Take a look at the top 10 takeaways from this year’s Horizons Economic Forecast: 1. Pierce County: A Hub of Investment & Growth The program commenced with an address from Bruce Dammeier, Pierce County Executive, during which he underscored Pierce County's reputation as an attractive destination for both investment and employment opportunities. Highlighting two notable investments within the county, encompassing over seven million square feet of leased property, he emphasized the success of these ventures, with one property achieving full occupancy and the other surpassing the 70 percent mark. This emphasizes Pierce County's enduring appeal as a robust investment hub and vibrant community that continues to attract new residents.
3. Legislative Initiatives Aimed at Tackling Economic Challenges Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland of Washington's 10th District began her address by acknowledging the significant developments witnessed by the South Sound and Washington State at large over the past year. She further acknowledged widespread concerns voiced regarding labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, infrastructure needs, and the evolving marketplace dynamics necessitating continuous adaptation. In response to these challenges, she highlighted key federal legislative initiatives aimed at addressing these pressing issues:
While acknowledging the positive strides made through these legislative efforts, Congresswoman Strickland emphasized the ongoing commitment to further legislative action, promote continuous progress, and advocacy to address emerging challenges.
6. Collaboration & Progress in the South Sound Congressman Derek Kilmer of Washington’s 6th District delivered a memorable address focusing on the power of community collaboration and shared progress in the South Sound region. He highlighted a few significant achievements, including the $54 million investment in the Husky Terminal at the Port of Tacoma, enhancing the region's global economic standing. He also emphasized the tangible impact of federal investments in areas such as affordable housing through the Tacoma Housing Authority and expanded services at the Tacoma Rescue Mission, addressing crucial needs ranging from addiction recovery to workforce development. Furthermore, Kilmer celebrated the secured funding for the preservation and enhancement of Puget Sound, a vital environmental and economic resource for the region. Concluding his address, he urged continued innovation, partnership, and a steadfast commitment to preserving the spirit of collaboration, as he believes that through collective action, there are boundless opportunities for progress and prosperity.
8. Housing Activity to Decline in 2024 Dr. Johnson also delved into the analysis of housing activity outlined in the PCEI Report. Throughout 2023, housing activity notably underperformed initial projections, with new listings and closed sales experiencing declines of 30 percent and 27 percent, respectively. Moreover, the Pierce County Housing Affordability Index witnessed a substantial 28.7 percent decrease by the conclusion of 2023. Looking ahead to 2024, the housing market is expected to maintain its subdued trajectory, contingent upon potential reductions in mortgage rates. Projections indicate that the Pierce County Housing Activity Index is poised to decline by 9.5 percent by the culmination of 2024.
10. JBLM Addresses Recruitment Challenges
JBLM serves as a significant economic driver within the South Sound region and Washington State at large. As part of the local panel, Lt. Col. Dane Franta of the 62nd Airlift Wing at JBLM provided invaluable insights into the military community's resilience amidst global uncertainties and ongoing challenges in labor and recruitment. A key emphasis by Lt. Col. Franta was the revitalization of community outreach initiatives, recognizing the importance of re-establishing connections lost during COVID. JBLM is actively engaged in attending hiring fairs, organizing air shows, and participating in Armed Forces Days to reinforce their commitment to engagement and recruitment efforts. Remarkably, statistics for 2023 indicate that JBLM currently hosts the smallest military personnel presence in its history. Consequently, recruitment efforts have been intensified to meet operational requirements. As part of their recruitment messaging, JBLM fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose, emphasizing the unique benefits of a military career path. Downtown Tacoma welcomed a new business to the area on Friday, February 2, 2024. Located off Pacific Ave, you will find Maxwell Synové Photography! Krystian Francuz-Harris holds many titles including Photographer, Wife, Mother of two young boys, and now proud Downtown Tacoma Business Owner.
At the ribbon cutting ceremony, there were delicious doughnuts for the attendees, and best of all, Krystian’s friends and family. Also present to support Krystian were a few Chamber Ambassadors, The Downtown Tacoma Partnership team, and other fellow photographers. Jon Rossman, Board Chair for the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, and Owner of another business in Tacoma, Chuckals Office Products, had the chance to say a few words to welcome Maxwell Synové Photography. When Krystian had the chance to speak, she shared the meaning behind the studio’s name. Maxwell is the middle name of both her sons, and Synové is Czech for Son. It was important for Krystian to bring her culture into the company name, and of course, her precious children’s middle names. The studio itself is spacious and has large windows at the front to let in natural light. There are plenty of areas within the studio to create different sets, and the soft colors of the room make for a great canvas to get creative with. Along the walls are many prints from past photoshoots that show the variety and skillset Krystian has…you may even find her oldest son toddling around if you’re lucky! Next time you need some photos taken, be sure to check out Maxwell Synové Photography! Welcome to all the new members who joined our business community in January 2024:
Welcome to all the new members who joined our business community in December 2023:
2023 was an exciting year for the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber and our local business community! This past year we were thrilled to host sold out signature events where we strengthened relationships with friendly faces — many familiar and many new! The conferences we took part in gave local leaders chances to learn, grow, and be inspired with ambitious ideas for the South Sound. We were honored to play a role in leadership development programs for business owners and entrepreneurs on the rise in our region. Advocacy to protect business interests and ensure a thriving local economy was a top priority for us on a local, state, and national level. Throughout the year, we enjoyed many different opportunities to celebrate the successes and accomplishments of our vibrant business community. Thank you to everyone who joined us this year to make an impact for business in the South Sound. We can't wait to have you alongside us for everything 2024 has in store! Read our recap of the Chamber's Top 10 accomplishments, events, programs, and moments from 2023 below!
On December 6, the Chamber held the Annual Public Officials Holiday Reception, an event where the public and local politicians can meet and network in a more casual environment. The event was held at the Tacoma Art Museum, and was attended by 375+ elected officials, Chamber members, along with non-Chamber members. Several food stations were provided from Carr’s Restaurant and Catering, offering appetizers from crabcakes to crackers and a wide selection of cheeses. Music was played by Violinist Holly Eckert, and Accordion-Master Toby Hanson. Halfway through the night, attendees shared a toast to the amazing work that our elected officials do; Andrea Reay, President/CEO of the Tacoma-Pierce County, and Jon Rossman Owner of Chuckals Office Products, and Chair of the Tacoma-Pierce County Board of Directors, did the honors. Overlooking a lit-up Downtown Tacoma, the Dome in the distance, and being under the twinkling fairy lights in the foyer of the museum, the night literally was glowing. View event photos taken by Sage + Soul Photography: bit.ly/2023-POHR-Gallery.
In case you missed it, be sure to attend the Horizons Economic Forecast on January 31st. Learn more and register here. A round table luncheon was held on November 30th at the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber celebrating the THRIVE Tacoma Business Fund recipients. THRIVE Tacoma embodies a collective commitment to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion within the local business community. Twenty Tacoma-based small businesses were selected as recipients of the 2023 THRIVE Tacoma Business Fund grants through the lottery system, each being awarded $5,000, made possible by the generous financial support and partnership with Comcast. The recipients are:
Uncle Al’s Texas BBQ, a graduate of the Pierce-County Business Accelerator, served up a delectable Texas BBQ lunch for the delighted recipients.
Jamison Harris, Manager of Government and Regulatory Affairs, Comcast and Andrea Reay, President and CEO, Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber spoke at the event. Both speakers underscored the significance of investing in our small business community, emphasizing that such investments are pivotal for creating the most equitable, inclusive, and thriving business environment in Washington State. Zshoni Nalls, Director of Government and Regulatory Affairs, Comcast was also present to support the recipients. For more Information on Comcast’s Digital Equity work in the community: Comcast RISE – Elevating small businesses. Last Thursday, Chamber After Hours was held at The Benaroya Company's South Hill Business + Technology Center in Puyallup.
This beautiful campus surrounded by Evergreens was a crowd pleaser and guests enjoyed taking tours of the Class A office spaces, seeing the office for the Central Pierce Fire & Rescue, and exploring the art in the lobby. The newly renovated lobby was the center of the buzz, where the attendees had the chance to mix and mingle over some delicious appetizers and an exclusive wine collection generously provided by Mr. Benaroya himself. The highlight of the night was hearing from Puyallup's Mayor, Mayor Dean Johnson, Jon Rossman, Chair of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber Board, and Owner of Chuckals Office Products, and from the amazing Marketing Director, Lisa Goodman, with The Benaroya Company. They shared more on the "best things about being in Puyallup and Pierce County." Lisa did the honors of pulling a random business card and presenting an incredible prize to a lucky attendee. This prize was a Two Night Stay at The Lodge at Suncadia! At the end of the night, we were graciously thanked for attending by the Benaroya Team and their wonderful Security Staff. Overall, it was a great way to spend a chilly afternoon in the beautiful lobby of the South Hill Business + Technology Center. While there are no more Chamber After Hours in 2023, you will have the chance to network in the New Year at our Chamber After Hours on January 18th, 2024 hosted by Cogir at the Narrows. Register today! Welcome to all the new members who joined our business community in September 2023:
Welcome to all the new members who joined our business community in October 2023:
Welcome to all the new members who joined our business community in November 2023:
At the Chamber's Annual Meeting on November 1, the winners of the 2023 Spotlight on Business Awards were announced.
These awards celebrate exceptional businesses and organizations that achieve incredible things in local commerce, in their industries, and in the community. Nominations for these awards were submitted by businesses and community members. Congratulations to the 2023 award recipients! Business Excellence Award: The Doty Group, P.S. Small Business Excellence Award: Bottimore & Associates, PLLC Non-Profit Excellence Award: Sexual Assault Center of Pierce County Representation in Business Award: Acts Pharmacy & Healthcare Services LLC Business Supporter of the Military Award: 27 West Education is a powerful tool for growth and development, and when it's tailored to the unique needs of entrepreneurs, it can be transformative. The Pierce-County Business Accelerator (PCBA) program is designed to equip budding entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed to take their business ventures to new heights. As the recent PCBA cohort reached its graduation milestone, we are thrilled to celebrate with them and welcome them as Chamber members. In the PCBA program, participants undergo a 6-week class designed to provide them with new skills and mentorship to guide in their entrepreneurial journey, enabling them to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. It's not just about the skills learned during the program; it's also about the optimism and connections it provides. Graduates find value in the relationships formed during the program, and we are excited to provide more networking opportunities as they work to continue to grow and thrive. The graduation commenced with a warm welcome from the Instructors, Pierce County representatives, and the Chamber. After the official welcome, the program was turned over to the entrepreneurs, who had prepared a pitch for their business, showcasing the culmination of their hard work and the skills they had acquired during the PCBA program. These pitches were a testament to the growth and development that had taken place over the six-week cohort.
The success of the recent PCBA cohort is a testament to the program's effectiveness in nurturing and empowering entrepreneurs. With high levels of engagement, skill development, and a focus on mentorship and professional services, the PCBA program is creating a thriving community of entrepreneurs ready to take on the challenges and opportunities in the business world. As these graduates embark on the next stage of their entrepreneurial journeys, we take a moment to celebrate them and all their achievements. Join us for the PCBA Showcase, on November 8th, 2023 at the Washington State Fair Grounds Expo Hall from 5 – 7 pm. Discover potential collaborators, savor outstanding catering services, engage with enthusiastic business leaders, and explore the hidden gems of Pierce County’s innovative products and services you never knew you needed. Event is free and family friendly. Don’t miss out – secure your spot by registering now! On October 17th the Chamber helped celebrate a milestone with a ribbon cutting for Always in Bloom! Also celebrating a grand opening with a ribbon cutting was Sir Grout Tacoma. Congratulations to both businesses on your milestones and we wish you continued success!
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