|
|
|
We love our ambassador team and are very grateful to have their support! Our Chamber ambassadors are an extension of the Chamber staff, allowing our members to have more points of contact. We want to highlight each ambassador as a 'thank you' for their continued support and dedication that they put into the ambassador team. We asked each ambassador a set of questions in an effort to become better acquainted and get a preview of their life outside of ambassador work. For October, we will be highlighting the enthusiastic Ciara Boyce!
Learn More About the Ambassador Program
Interested in learning more about what it takes to be a Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber ambassador? Learn more here. One year ago, on October 5th, University Place got a little hotter...not the weather unfortunately, but because of the addition of HOTWORX Studio! Franchise owners, Ciara Boyce and Tracey Pidge, took the ultimate leap of opening their own HOTWORX fitness studio in 2023 and invited our Chamber to celebrate their anniversary. HOTWORX University Place is a 24-hour infrared fitness studio equipped with 10 sauna rooms and a FX ZONE (functional exercise area). Members are led in a variety of workout sessions taught by highly skilled virtual instructors; with three paces they can choose to follow. You can often find Ciara and Tracey ‘earning the burn’ (a popular motivational phrase used by the virtual instructors) multiple times a day, every day! Through heartfelt speeches by co-owners Boyce and Pidge, the Warriors (aka the members) were thanked for trusting them and supporting HOTWORX University Place. They made special shoutouts to their spouses and loved ones for the continued belief in their personal mission statements, which has gotten them to where they are today. We were joined by Council Member Melanie Grassi, several members of the community, Warriors (some who left the sauna mid-session to watch the ribbon being cut!), and even Fudge the bulldog, who was able to get in on the celebration. Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber Board Chair, Kierra Phifer, led the team in the countdown to cut the ribbon and we ended the ceremony by signing the cut piece of ribbon. Each individual staff member is passionate about what they do and is eager to help you meet your fitness goals inside and outside the sauna. Schedule some time to meet with them and book your first HOTWORX session here. Website: www.hotworx.net/studio/universityplace Phone: (253) 336-3090 Every year in late August through September, Puyallup, Washington takes on a massive undertaking – the Washington State Fair. The Washington State Fair is not only the largest fair in the Pacific Northwest, but one of the largest in the world. Hundreds of thousands of visitors each day have so much to experience from concerts in the Umpqua Bank Grandstands, a showcase of agriculture and farming, and 13 plus buildings to walk through all offering a variety of activities. This year, the fair had something that has never been offered before – the Pierce County Business Accelerator vendor section. Every three days, six new PCBA program graduates had the chance to share their unique businesses with Fair guests. Located in the Pavilion Marketplace right inside the Gold Gate on the fairgrounds, it was the perfect venue for these booths. The Pavilion Marketplace historically hosts small ‘maker’ businesses, 4-H contestants, and much more. PCBA vendors offered a variety of products including custom painted glassware, season-trendy clothing, handknit plushies, self/body care products, jam-filled jars, laser cut wood ornaments, handmade jewelry, beard oil, perfumes, Croc charms, and more! If you were unable to walk-through the Pavilion Marketplace and shop these PCBA vendors, then head over to the PCBA Website, Pierce County Business Accelerator (pcbamap.biz), to check out not only these grads, but also the other 450+ graduates. The PCBA is a program of the Pierce County Economic Development Department funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and administered by the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce. The City of Lakewood is a municipal partner. The PCBA is managed in partnership with Next Consulting, Asia Pacific Cultural Center, The Black Collective, Mi Centro, and Korean Women’s Association. To learn more visit PCBA.biz. Autumn is here and what is cozier than a historic courtroom and an elegant ballroom to gather for September’s Chamber After Hours? Court House Square, located in the heart of Downtown Tacoma, opened their fourth floor for attendees to walk through the courtroom and network in the ballroom. Jessica Johnston, Director of Court House Square and Chamber Ambassador, was there to share knowledge of the 114-year-old venue over upbeat music and delicious food catered by fellow Chamber member, Cafe Pacific Catering. Guests enjoyed sandwich-sliders, pasta salad, and a charcuterie station where they could make their own spread. On a sweeter note, there was Almond Roca sprinkled cannoli, crème brulée, and peanut butter pie to top off the night. To accompany the food, bartender Derek was happy to pour you some wine, or pop-the-top off a cold one. There was a punch as well that was a hit amongst the crowd! Thank you, Jessica, for hosting September’s Chamber After Hours! We look forward to more events taking place in your beautiful venue and the hallowed halls. October 2024 Chamber After Hours If you missed September’s Chamber After Hours and are looking to attend October’s, registration is now open! October’s Chamber After Hours will be held at New Tacoma Cemeteries Funeral Home & Crematory. Halloween costumes / themed clothing is optional!  Welcome to all the new members who joined our business community in September 2024:
Physio Performance (formerly Physio Movement and Performance) celebrated four years of business on Friday, September 20, and the ribbon cutting ceremony did not disappoint! From dozens of giveaway prizes to electrolyte drink samples, and more, guests were able to join in on the celebration. Dr. Becky and her highly qualified team dressed to the nines with a coordinating color scheme matching the company’s logo, which was a fun way to recognize the celebration and is indicative of their company culture. Each staff member is dedicated to what they do, coming back every day to improve the lives of their clients. They are truly committed to Physio Performance, and it shows. Clients range from high school students to firefighters and everyone in between. Before this year, Physio Performance was confined to a small footprint in the building they were leasing. They are now happy to have the entire suite to themselves, which includes a gym space. With the acquisition of this gym space, they can now offer even more fitness classes and can take on more appointments in the workday. If you are in the market for some physical therapy, strength training, or performance enhancement, book with Physio Performance today! Website: https://thephysioperformance.com Phone: (253) 200-0741 Email: [email protected]  We are honored to announce the list of nominees for the 2024 Spotlight on Business Awards! Each year, these awards celebrate exceptional Chamber member businesses and organizations that achieve incredible things in local commerce, in their industries, and in the community. We can't wait to celebrate all the nominees (and announce the winners!) at our upcoming Annual Meeting on Friday, November 8, 2024. Reserve your table for the 2024 Annual Meeting here! Award Categories
Eligibility Requirements Businesses must be an active member of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber in order to be considered for a Spotlight Award. Nominations for these awards were submitted by businesses and community members. 2024 Spotlight on Business Awards Nominees:
Last Tuesday evening, we welcomed the Spaceworks Fall Business Plan Cohort at their first session at the Chamber office! This cohort includes businesses like; Illustrator, Clothing designer, Ceramicists, Art Therapist, and Tattoo Artist, to name a few. We’re excited to walk them through their business plan development and look forward to inviting you all to their graduation! About Spaceworks Business Plan Cohort The Business Plan Cohort is the backbone of Spaceworks Tacoma's Incubator and results in a formal business plan. Participants meet once a week for 12 weeks (3 hours/week). This cohort focuses on those businesses that have tested their product or service in the market (friends, family, markets, Etsy, brick and mortar, etc.) and have a clear understanding of what they are providing to the customer. At the end of this 12-week cohort, participants will have gained the knowledge to successfully run your business, a completed business plan, and will have presented your pitch at your Graduation. Photo of Incubator alum, BirdLoft:  The Business Leadership Academy of Tacoma-Pierce County aims to connect both current and emerging leaders with our business community, fostering leadership development and interaction with exemplary figures in their respective fields. This program is sponsored by the Chamber and Pacific Lutheran University and has been a regional community leadership program since 1978. This program kicked off its 46th year last week as we welcomed 19 excited leaders into the Business Leadership Academy community! There are many things to look forward to over the next several weeks as these leaders explore leader development, assess their leadership strengths and weaknesses, learn from leaders that contribute to the vitality of our community, and visit organizations at the heart of our regional business community. During the first day of class, students received the chance to hear from Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber President & CEO, Andrea H. Reay. She shared more on her career journey, valuable leadership insight, and what led her to our Chamber. Thank you, Andrea, for taking the time to speak to our BLA students! What's Ahead We are excited to engage with Tacoma's Downtown community through an extensive tour led by JD Elquist, Retail Advocate at Downtown Tacoma Partnership. Additionally, our Economic Development Tour will take participants through the Port of Tacoma, showcasing the vibrant economic opportunities in the region. These tours will highlight the dynamic business environment and offer valuable insights into Tacoma's economic landscape. Vice President of Strategic Engagement Announces Departure & New Role at Puyallup-Sumner Chamber9/4/2024
Alison Shaffer, born and raised in Puyallup, brings a deep understanding of the unique business environment and strong sense of community that defines the South Sound region.
With a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Washington State University, Alison began her career at a boutique advertising agency in Seattle, where she spent a decade on and off as a national broadcast media buyer, managing campaigns in over 20 major U.S. markets. A lifelong love of interior design, Alison founded The Modern Cottage Company in 2010, a design and antique retail business in Tacoma, Washington. In 2012, Alison was among the first selected for the Spaceworks, a program of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber and City of Tacoma. Alison later served on the Spaceworks steering committee. Over eight years, Alison opened and operated multiple retail shops across the South Sound, including a pop-up in downtown Seattle and several co-op stores with local artists and business owners. Since January 2019, Alison has served in leadership and as Vice President of Strategic Engagement and Programming at the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce. In this role, Alison has been instrumental in advancing programs that support local businesses, expanding membership, and strengthening community partnerships. Passionate about supporting local businesses, Alison is committed to fostering economic development and engagement throughout the region." Welcome to all the new members who joined our business community in August 2024:
The Covid-19 Pandemic was a time of entrepreneurship exploration for many people and Alicia Hall, Owner of Bomb Charcuterie is one of those people. During the pandemic, Alicia and her daughter took a zoom-course on ‘charcuterie-how-to' and building creative cheeseboards quickly became her favorite hobby. Alicia started small by sharing her craft with friends and family. However, once she realized what a great opportunity it presented, she set out to make it her full-time job. Hall graduated from the Pierce County Business Accelerator Program ready to break ground on her new vocational journey and in January of 2024, claimed 919 Kincaid Avenue in the heart of Downtown Sumner as her new headquarters. Husband, Aaron, and Alicia started renovating what used to be a clothing boutique, expecting it to take only three months or so to finish. Unfortunately, three months turned into eight. However, on August 28th, Bomb Charcuterie celebrated their grand opening with a crowd full of family, friends, Sumner residents, and some special guests! Attendees included the City of Sumner’s Mayor, Kathy Hayden; Lori Waltier, Executive Director of the Sumner Main Street Association (who partnered with the Chamber to put this on); and many other administrative folks from the City of Sumner. The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber thanks Alicia Hall for inviting us to commemorate the opening of Bomb Charcuterie with a ribbon cutting ceremony. If you are in the market for cheese and other charcuterie provisions, sandwiches, tartines, catering at a variety of events, workshops on charcuterie 101, or other gifts inspired by the rich tradition of France and Italy, then travel by car, foot, or train to get a taste of this Bomb Charcuterie! Website: Charcuterie Boards Puyallup, WA | Bomb Charcuterie
Contact Information: Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber Andrea H. Reay President & CEO 253-627-2175 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE TACOMA - August 28, 2024 - This past June, The City of Tacoma, in collaboration with the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce and EMC Research, launched its first-ever Economic Development Business Climate Survey. "Our local businesses are the backbone of our community, and this survey gives us valuable insights into their needs and challenges,” said Mayor Victoria Woodards. “By understanding these results, we can work together with our business community to continue to create a thriving economic environment that supports growth and innovation supported by city policies and actions.” The primary objective of the survey was collecting wide and comprehensive data to help ensure that the economic development work we do is truly centered in and for our local business community. These valuable insights will help inform the City Council and Economic Development priorities for 2025. Tacoma Pierce County Chamber President and CEO, Andrea H. Reay “The Tacoma Pierce County Chamber was excited to work with the City of Tacoma to understand firsthand the needs of the business community. We look forward to using this valuable insight to strengthen the local economy and improve the outlook for all of Tacoma’s businesses.” Feedback from this survey will play a crucial role in ensuring that the City of Tacoma continues to meet the needs of its business community while prioritizing future investments. All businesses within the city were encouraged to participate in the survey, which focused on their experiences as members of Tacoma's business community. The survey was offered in English, Spanish, Vietnamese and Korean. 221 businesses completed interviews; 174 of the businesses had a physical location in the City of Tacoma. Outreach and support of the survey was provided from community partners including Asia Pacific Cultural Center, Korean Women’s Association, The Black Collective, Tacoma Urban League, and Mi Centro. Primary findings from the survey indicate that the Business Health Index is doing “okay”, 6.34 on a scale of 0-10. There were strong positive results in terms of the commitment businesses have to Tacoma as a great place to have a business. The most important factors in choosing a business location are safety, cleanliness, and the cost of doing business, specifically taxes. Improving communication from the City of Tacoma on policies that could impact business was important to 87% of businesses. “As Chair of the Economic Development Committee, ensuring that the City of Tacoma is an exceptional partner for local businesses is a top priority,” said Council Member Kiara Daniels. “This survey provides important insights into what our local businesses need to achieve their goals and the challenges they are facing. I’m eager to ensure that we translate this information into action and continue to make Tacoma an ideal environment for our businesses.” Link here for the full survey result report. About the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber is the voice for business and a catalyst for prosperity in Tacoma. Our vision is to support a thriving business environment that promotes economic growth and livability in our community. About the City of Tacoma
The City of Tacoma is committed to fostering a vibrant business environment. In line with Resolution 41069, the City is conducting this Business Climate Survey with a diverse group of businesses to deepen our understanding of their needs, optimize existing resources, and prioritize anti-racism in policy recommendations. What is the go-to food any day of the week, on holidays, and of course the morning after a night out? If you guessed Chinese food, you’d be correct! Panda Express has been serving freshly prepared American Chinese food with real ingredients since 1983. Launching in California, they have now spread to over 2,500 locations spanning across the United States and in eleven international countries. Here in Washington State alone, we have over 70 stores. Local to Pierce County, Spanaway just got their first Panda Express on August 15th! Residents flooded the complex forming a line of several dozen people-deep, well before 8:00 o’clock in the morning! Guests were greeted by not only a giant blow-up Panda, but a mascot named ‘Pay’ ready to pose for a photo with a “thumbs-up”. While waiting for the doors to open, they were also entertained by the talented Spanaway Lake High School Cheer Squad, ‘Sway’*. The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber was able to introduce Josie Cervantes, Area Coach of Operations; Janine Lorenzo, Training Leader; along with several more Panda Family team members to commemorate the grand opening. After the speeches were given and the ribbon was cut, the first customer was welcomed and given a special prize from Pay for the accomplishment. Also, the first 88 guests were given a swag bag with a Panda Express branded t-shirt inside. If you are wanting to indulge in some delicious American Chinese favorites such as The Original Orange Chicken or Chow Mein, head over to the newest Panda Express in Spanaway-nicknamed ‘Panda Home’ because it is an invitation into the store that which takes on traditional Chinese architecture elements. Things like red lanterns, a moon gate portal, Chinatown signs and more, gives the restaurant a sense of home and hospitality. Inside the store, guests can get a glimpse of who Panda Express is as a brand, experience the culture, and meet the Panda Family of associates. *Each member of the squad gave verbal consent for photos/videos to be taken and shared. What started as a young boy’s dream of owning a confectionery shop in Germany, where he could work in the shop pouring fresh chocolate into bars whilst children stood outside gazing in through the window in amazement, turned into owning Boba Tea Island (BTI), a boba tea cafe in Lakewood where people of all ages come in to enjoy delicious bubble tea! Hakan Yilmaz is not only the proud Owner of BTI, but also a Pierce County Business Accelerator Program Graduate, and quite the entrepreneur. Hakan invited the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber to celebrate the new-ownership, renovation, and renaming of the business with a ribbon cutting ceremony. What sets Boba T Island apart from the rest is the fact that they are partnering with Tacoma’s Sister City Fuzhou, China, to import the tea that they sell at the shop. They have partnered with The World Trade Center Tacoma, Asia Pacific Cultural Center, Tacoma Sister Cities, and Tacoma-Pierce County EDB, along with several other organizations to make this possible. With an incredible staff, fun and playful environment, along with sweet treats for sale, BTI is the best cafe to meet a friend, have a quick day-date, or just relax and read a book while you enjoy your boba beverage. Thank you Hakan for allowing the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber to be a part of your big day, and good luck on your new endeavor! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bobatisland/ We love our ambassador team and are very grateful to have their support! Our Chamber ambassadors are an extension of the Chamber staff, allowing our members to have more points of contact. We want to highlight each ambassador as a 'thank you' for their continued support and dedication that they put into the ambassador team. We asked each ambassador a set of questions in an effort to become better acquainted and get a preview of their life outside of ambassador work. For September, we will be highlighting the wonderful Sarah Asay!
Learn More About the Ambassador Program
Interested in learning more about what it takes to be a Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber ambassador? Learn more here. The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber was able to celebrate the grand opening of Bloom Society, a women’s connection group, and consignment shop all in one! When you walk through the blush-pink door, you find yourself surrounded by trinkets, homemade jewelry and art, soaps, greeting cards, and so much more! Towards the back of the shop, you enter a private event space that doubles as a pop-up shop for vendors such as a photographer, and a permanent-jewelry jeweler. In addition, there is a lash studio that occupies the room at the back of the building. Getting to where the shop is today, was a journey “full of blood, sweat, tears; labor of a lot of love” as Jessica Larimore, Owner and graduate of the Pierce County Business Accelerator program, shared with the group at the ribbon cutting ceremony. Mother Lynn, and Daughter Jessica, spent many hours renovating the shop including putting up the crown molding, and even constructing the cashier’s desk. Although the weather was a bit gloomy on this late-August day, it did not deter folks from coming by to support the opening of this small business. In fact, one attendee was able to purchase a ‘just because’ gift for his wife (which of course he sought the wisdom of Jessica to pick out!). These gifts and products are locally made by creators in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, so when you are shopping at Bloom Society, you’re not just supporting them, you are supporting women all over the Pacific Northwest. Be sure to follow Bloom Society on their social media outlets and take a trip to Ruston when you can for a mooch around the shop! Website: HOME | Bloom Society (bloomsocietypnw.com) Friends, family, and community connections gathered on Saturday, August 24th, to commemorate the official launch celebration of MK Creative, a local marketing agency and proud new member of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber. Founder and Creative Director, McKensey R. Domas, has experience working with businesses, nonprofits, artists and makers, movers and shakers: “I come alongside you to help build your brand, grow your business, and reclaim time to focus on your clients and do what you do best.” As a business owner and artist herself, McKensey knows what it’s like to wear all the hats in a business. With a background in corporate marketing and communications, McKensey brings her unique skills to provide approachable marketing solutions curated for you and your business. MK Creative specializes in brand development, graphic design, website design, and implementing strategic marketing plans. Visit mkcreativemarketing.com to learn more and book a free 30-minute discovery meeting. Website: https://www.mkcreativemarketing.com Email: [email protected]  Chamber After Hours at the Washington State Fair Events Center, falling on the second week in August, has become a yearly affair for the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber! Taking place just before the start of the notable Washington State Fair, aka the Fall Fair, Chamber After Hours is the perfect time for attendees to get excited for the upcoming festivities. This year, guests got to experience the event in the Fair View Club, located between the Blue and Gold Gate on the grounds, and adjacent to the Pavilion Marketplace. This private room can be used for corporate events, receptions, special events, and much more. Charcuterie-style food was provided along with beverages and most importantly, scones. Andrea Reay, President & CEO of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, alongside Cari Dixon, Chief Growth Officer of the WA State Fair management team shared, a few words about the partnership between the two entities, and the amazing projects and events that have blossomed from it. They finished with a giveaway drawing for 12 lucky winners! Among the prizes were tickets to the Umpqua Bank Concert Series, Emerald Downs, and a Tacoma Rainier’s baseball game. September 2024 Chamber After Hours If you missed the excitement of August’s Chamber After Hours and want to attend the next one, be sure to register for our September After Hours on Thursday, September 19, hosted by Court House Square. Please note this event begins 30-minutes later than usual (i.e. 5:30 – 7:30 PM). We look forward to seeing you there! Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber member and Pierce County Business Accelerator (PCBA) graduate, Arabia Essence, had the grand opening of their Olympia store on Monday, August 12! Arabia Essence offers a variety of Middle Eastern perfume oils and bottles, jewelry, and home decor. There is a selection of women’s formal wear, as well. The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber was able to partner with the Thurston County Chamber to celebrate the business milestone of Astou Sow, owner of Arabia Essence. Jessica Houchin, Operations and Events Coordinator for the Thurston County Chamber was able to share photos from the special day. Thank you, Jessica, and fellow Thurston County Chamber staff, for taking the lead on this event! Arabia Essence also has a store in the Kitsap Mall in Kitsap County, which will celebrate their grand opening on Tuesday, September 10. We are excited to partner with the Greater Kitsap Chamber to commemorate this additional milestone. Congratulations, Astou, on your two amazing business milestones! We look forward to seeing you continue to thrive and grow in our community. Website: https://arabiaessencellc.com Email: [email protected] We love our ambassador team and are very grateful to have their support! Our Chamber ambassadors are an extension of the Chamber staff, allowing our members to have more points of contact. We want to highlight each ambassador as a 'thank you' for their continued support and dedication that they put into the ambassador team. We asked each ambassador a set of questions in an effort to become better acquainted and get a preview of their life outside of ambassador work. For August, we will be highlighting the great Laura Etscheid!
Thank you, Laura, for sharing your valuable insight and feedback to our ever-growing ambassador program! We value getting to work alongside you and are grateful to have you as a Chamber ambassador! Connect with Laura If you would like to connect with Laura to discuss information about being an ambassador or 1st Security Bank, you can reach her here: [email protected]. Learn More About the Ambassador Program
Interested in learning more about what it takes to be a Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber ambassador? Learn more here. Welcome to all the new members who joined our business community in July 2024: • 4EVRGRN
• A1 Financial Services • Aichas Wholesomes • AMP Studio LLC • Anchor Puzzles LLC • Black Bishop Financial Group • C & C Electric Connected & Continuity • Cafe Pacific Catering, Inc. • Cedar Gate Creatives • Cinman Consulting • Degesch America • EL visionZ • EXIT SUCCESS Solutions • FRN Corp. • Girls Hearts on Fire • Harbor Freight - Frederickson • Hello, Beautiful • Hunt's Services • Mark Lindquist Law • MD'S Hauling • MK Creative • Mr Racks LLC • Origin Medicine • Soulberry Coffee House LLC • Steepmeadow Solutions • Toby Murray • Tresha's Treasures • Yates Enterprise Solutions • Youngblood Plumbing & Radiant LLC • Yours Truly Tacoma Propeller Club was the gracious Chamber After Hours host this month! The event was held at the Fabulich Center, where attendees could enjoy the building’s shaded garden space and open first floor plan, which made for a comfortable atmosphere to network in the mid-summer heat. Tacoma Propeller Club has been supporting the community and Port industries of Tacoma since 1936. The organization is passionate about their mission to promote and support the Puget Sound maritime industry through adult and youth education. Each year, the Tacoma Propeller Club hosts a large Salmon Bake which becomes the perfect opportunity to teach the public about who they are and what they do. Similarly, this month’s Chamber After Hours was also a great opportunity to share the wealth of knowledge. Several guests hadn’t known what Tacoma Propeller Club was, and others had also never visited the Fabulich Center. By the end of the night, everyone left with a better understanding of the day-to-day operations of Tacoma Propeller Club. It was wonderful to see several of their Board Members also attended the event and they were eager to share more about their organization. Thank you to all who attended July’s After Hours, as well as a special ‘thank you’ to Tacoma Propeller Club for being a fantastic host! Learn more about Tacoma Propeller Club and their work by visiting their website. Website: https://www.tacomapropellerclub.com If you were unable to attend July’s Chamber After Hours and want to join us in August, please register here. This next After Hours event will be held at the Washington State Fairgrounds! 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 two recent PCBA cohorts reached their graduation milestone, we are thrilled to celebrate with them and welcome them as Chamber members. In the PCBA program, participants undergo a six-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. As these graduates embark on the next stage of their entrepreneurial journeys, we take a moment to celebrate them and all their achievements. View photos from the Cohort 17 & 18 graduations below and learn more about the Pierce County Business Accelerator at www.pcba.biz! Cohort 17 Graduation Photos: Cohort 18 Graduation Photos: We love our ambassador team and are very grateful to have their support! Our Chamber ambassadors are an extension of the Chamber staff, allowing our members to have more points of contact. We want to highlight each ambassador as a 'thank you' for their continued support and dedication that they put into the ambassador team.  We asked each ambassador a set of questions in an effort to become better acquainted and get a preview of their life outside of ambassador work. Our ambassador highlight for July is the amazing Jessica Johnston! Life as an Ambassador Three words Jessica used to describe being an ambassador were “Gratitude, Honor, and Connection.” Jessica has only been a member since January of this year but has already proven to be a valuable member of the ambassador team. She says “I take pride in sharing the tools and opportunities the Chamber provides with those considering joining. Making these connections and witnessing entrepreneurs turning their dreams into fully supported businesses brings me great satisfaction.” Jessica’s great grandparents were the owners of the first TV and Appliance store in West Seattle, influencing her family to advocate for small businesses and inspire others for the community. This has prompted her passion for being an ambassador because of the support and involvement for local businesses in Tacoma-Pierce County. Life Outside of Being an Ambassador Outside of Ambassador life, Jessica is the Director of Court House Square in Downtown Tacoma and the KSP building on Hilltop. She also volunteers as the Chair of the City Events and Recognition Committee (CERC) for the City of Tacoma. This committee organizes the annual MLK celebration, City of Destiny Awards, Special Events Funding program, and much more. For her, this holds significance as she contributes to recognizing and celebrating the positive differences made by individuals within our city. Additionally, Jessica continues to be heavily involved with the City of Tacoma by working with Tacoma’s Venue and Events. It is abundantly clear how dedicated Jessica is to her community and its people! The Chamber looks forward to continuing to work alongside Johnston to make a positive and meaningful impact together. Connect with Jessica If you would like to get in contact with Jessica to gain more information about the Chamber or Court House Square, you can reach her here: [email protected] Learn More About the Ambassador Program Interested in learning more about what it takes to be a Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber ambassador? Learn more here.
|
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
October 2024
Categories
All
|
950 Pacific Ave. Suite 300
Tacoma, WA 98402 Phone: (253) 627-2175 Fax: (253) 597-7305 [email protected] |
|
QUICK LINKS
|
CONNECT WITH US!
|
RSS Feed