The David Schroedel Leadership and Advocacy Scholarship is awarded to an individual who exemplifies the Chamber’s core values and has demonstrated a commitment to civic engagement. Candidates for the scholarship are selected based on the following criteria:

• A clear alignment with the Chamber’s mission and values, including a dedication to fostering a thriving business environment.
• A demonstrated interest in public service and a strong desire to engage in leadership roles within the Tacoma-Pierce County region.
• A proven track record of supporting business interests, advocating for economic growth, and contributing to the local business community.

By focusing on these parameters, the scholarship ensures that recipients are well-positioned to make a meaningful impact through the Candidate Academy program and in our community.

Jessica Johnston has been selected as the inaugural recipient of the David Schroedel Leadership and Advocacy Scholarship for their exceptional commitment to community leadership and advocacy.

Johnston currently serves as the Director of Court House Square in downtown Tacoma. She also serves as an ambassador for the Chamber; on the Board of Director for the Downtown Tacoma Partnership as its Vice President & Treasurer; and as a Board Chair on the City of Tacoma’s City Events and Recognitions Committee. Johnson is passionate about many timely issues that our region faces, including government transparency and accountability, small business stability and growth, public safety, and mental health services.

Through this scholarship, Johnson will gain access to valuable mentorship, training, and networking opportunities in the Chamber’s Candidate Academy taking place on Saturday, March 8, 2025. This program serves as a launchpad for emerging leaders, providing them with a deeper understanding of the civic landscape and the skills necessary to drive meaningful change.

“The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber is dedicated to cultivating leadership that strengthens our community,” said Schroedel. “By investing in individuals who are passionate about advocacy and public service, we are ensuring that our region continues to thrive. We congratulate Jessica on this well-deserved honor and look forward to seeing her impact.”

​Johnson shares, "I am honored to have been awarded the David Schroedel Leadership and Advocacy Candidates Academy Scholarship, and I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber and the selection committee for their support. The Candidate Academy has equipped me with invaluable insights and resources that will elevate my leadership and advocacy efforts in Tacoma. I extend a special thanks to David Schroedel for his dedication to developing future leaders.
This scholarship reinforces my commitment to public service, and I am excited to implement the lessons I've learned to drive meaningful change in our community. Thank you for this amazing opportunity!"

Join us in celebrating Jessica Johnston and the future of leadership and advocacy in Tacoma-Pierce County!

There was no single “aha!” moment that sparked our rebranding. Instead, it was a series of insights, challenges, and opportunities that accumulated over time. We began by listening—really listening—to our community, partners, and team members. Their feedback highlighted areas where we could better serve you and reflect the innovative spirit driving us forward.  

We started our journey by defining a group of partners and stakeholders whose insight and guidance would help us evolve in the best way possible. This group included board leaders, executive staff, members of Manufacturing Industrial Council and Spaceworks Tacoma, and marketing members alongside our creative partners at Rotator Creative. With this group in place, we were able to delve into the past, assessing our past and present to then define our future. 

The discovery phase was filled with questions and an active dialogue around what makes our Chamber distinct from others in the nation or similar organizations in the region.  The Chamber has no shortage of history. It is intertwined with the history of Tacoma and Pierce County in such a way that it is almost impossible to separate. As Adam Auter at Rotator noted, “Anthropology, translation, and art – these are the beats that define our story and creative process.” 
​
This process gave us an opportunity to identify what makes us unique, what our challenges are, what common misconceptions exist about us, where we envision ourselves in five-to-ten years, and what do the journeys look like of our target audiences.  
“We knew it was critical to get input from as many members as possible, so we developed a member survey to gather data on their perspectives of The Chamber. We also made a point to ask local business owners (some members, some not) their thoughts about The Chamber to gather anecdotal evidence for our work,” said Auter. ​

Let’s be honest: at times, our journey wasn’t simple. With pages of notes and a collection of photographs documenting whiteboards covered with insights, our next task with our partners at Rotator was to translate everything into a seed of truth — a kernel of an idea with a narrative that succinctly answers the “So what?” about The Chamber. 

Throughout the process, every piece of feedback and input swirled around what became our new tagline: Member Powered. The member is at the center of everything we do. To us, membership is not transactional; membership is transformational. To be a member is to work with other members to leverage collective knowledge and influence for the sake of crafting solutions to some of the most complex issues affecting our entire region. ​

Our decision to rebrand was driven by a simple idea: growth. As our mission expanded, we recognized that our visual identity and messaging needed to evolve to match our ambitions. We wanted our brand to mirror our dedication to innovation, transparency, and community. This rebranding isn’t about leaving the past behind--it’s about building on our strong foundation to create a future full of promise and potential. How are we demonstrating that dedication and the idea of a member powered organization moving forward? 
​
Representing all of this visually is where the art comes in. There's no formulaic way to convert complex and abstract ideas into succinct symbols. The logo mark developed was crafted with serious intent with colors that ground it in our region, emblematic of our heritage, our progress, and the land and sea upon which commerce flows.  

The arrow shapes allude to the ripple effect The Chamber has on our economy and overall quality of life. And at the core is the member, the focal point of it all in its vibrancy and strength.  

“Together, all of these elements tell the story of The Chamber and serve as a rally cry for the organization to advance forward with confidence,” shared Auter. 
​
“I couldn't be more excited for how the TPCC rebrand turned out.  From my perspective, the process Rotator facilitated was exhaustive and incredibly inclusive of all stakeholders –from chamber staff to our members all the way to the board of directors,” said Jon Rossman, President and Owner, Chuckals Office Products, 2024 Chamber Board Chair. “The thoughtfulness that all stakeholders provided throughout the process was incredibly impressive. The results show just how much detail and energy was brought to the table from discovery all the way to the reveal.” ​

​We encouraged open conversations throughout the process. We held numerous brainstorming sessions and feedback rounds. Every voice mattered, and the collective insight helped shape the new identity. 

The design process was a whirlwind of sketches, mockups, and revisions. Each version brought us closer to a visual language that feels both modern and familiar. This meant providing active feedback and engaging deeply with our creative partners through many iterations along the way.  

Not every decision was smooth sailing. Some ideas and strong concepts had to be shelved, while others evolved in ways we hadn’t anticipated. Every hiccup was a learning opportunity, and we’re grateful for the growth that came from overcoming those challenges. 

“Working with The Chamber was immensely insightful and rewarding. Our collaboration with their team revealed just how much they value their members and are invested in their success,” said Auter. “As an organization that is frequently misunderstood, they are involved with so much behind the scenes to advance our region and yet they always keep the focus on the members. It is evident that they lead with pragmatism, empathy, and humility. We came away from the project feeling proud to be a part of The Chamber as members ourselves.” 

“I am proud of the work done by this committee to showcase a brand the Chamber can stand on within this community.  I think there is no doubt that the details this rebrand entails show just how ingrained our chamber is in the roots of this business community,” added Rossman.  ​

We’re excited to host a branded photo wall for upcoming events, thanks to Showtime Photo Booth. Since 2013 and with over 27 experiences to select from, it has been creating fun photo experiences across Indianapolis, New York, and Los Angeles.  
We’re eager to share more details with you, answer your questions, and hear your thoughts. Our journey doesn’t end here--it’s just the beginning of an exciting new chapter, and we’re thrilled to have you with us. 
​
Thank you for being a part of our story. ​

BECU (Boeing Employees’ Credit Union) has an expansive history in Washington State dating back to 1935. On February 19, it celebrated the grand opening of the Pierce County Financial Center located in Central Tacoma.  
 
Joining the festivities were the City of Tacoma’s Mayor Victoria Woodards; Rhubarb from the Tacoma Rainiers;, Dona Ponepinto, President and CEO of United Way of Pierce County; and an prodigiously supportive crowd of community members. Food and drink was provided by two local businesses for attendees to enjoy before the ceremony started.  
 
Bev Anderson, BJ Hunsicker, and Jason Rudman — who make up the Leadership team at BECU-- each spoke about their time at the credit union and the impact they have seen. Out of the 1.5 million total members, there are over 180,000 BECU members located in Pierce County. The BECU Pierce County Financial Center is the first in the area, and the team has combined experience of over 50 years. As Hunsicker said, “[the financial center offers] a full one-stop-shop experience.”  
 
Remarks from Mayor Woodards gave everyone a great laugh with her reminding folks that while the building may be called Pierce County Financial Center, that they are in Tacoma and BECU should consider rebranding already, “because BECU stands in Tacoma first, then it goes Pierce County!” All jokes aside, Mayor thanked BECU for being a partner of the City of Tacoma and for engaging in local programs to strengthen the community.  
 
Dona Ponepinto President and CEO of United Way of Pierce County spoke about the two entities’ relationship. Ponepinto said, “Mayor Woodards is a tough act to follow, but I am grateful to be speaking today.” And while Rhubarb cannot speak, he was most enthusiastic flashing thumbs-ups and ‘raising the roof’ during the speeches.  ​

Kitsap Bank celebrated its newest branch opening in Tacoma, achieving 21 locations across Western Washington.  
The celebration of this business milestone took place on Thursday, February 13, with a ribbon cutting. Though it started to snow, attendance was high with over 30 people gathered to recognize Kitsap Bank’s operational achievement.

Guests mixed and mingled before the Chief Executive Officer Steven Politakis gathered everyone for remarks. Politakis gave a sincere testimony of his time with Kitsap Bank and his fellow executive team while he gave shoutouts to employees and thanked them for their dedication to the bank. Politakis was joined by Olympic Bancorp Board of Directors’ Chairwoman, Cydly Langer Smith, who shared the same sentiment.

Recalling the annual staff retreat that generated the idea of acquiring the location Politakis said, “[I heard who owned the building] and I thought ‘Hey I know those guys. They are super smart...they are really good guys...and they love Tacoma – we can do business with those guys! This is great.’ [We got connected], put together a lease and we are off and running.”
​ 
Chamber Board Chairwoman, Kierra Phifer, initiated the ribbon cutting in front of the branch’s main entrance. Attendees were invited to sign the framing matte commemorating the ceremony as they enjoyed bites during the open house. 
Please join the Chamber in welcoming Kitsap Bank to downtown Tacoma! ​

The vision of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber is to make the South Sound the most equitable, inclusive, and thriving place to do business in Washington State. By fostering a pro-business environment, we aim to provide businesses in the South Sound with advocacy efforts that safeguard the rights of business owners, stimulate economic growth, increase our private sector workforce, and improve the overall business climate.
 
This legislative cycle, we must have a united business community voice at the state capitol. A strong presence will ensure our region’s unique needs are heard and addressed, laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and a thriving economy.

2025 Legislative Goal

Improve the business climate, grow businesses, and create private sector jobs in the South Sound
 

Top Legislative Priorities
​

• Protect the Puget Sound Gateway, Connecting Washington, and Move Ahead Washington transportation packages and existing incentives to help meet our economic development needs. These investments are critical for keeping goods moving, connecting communities, and supporting South Sound businesses.
• Support legislation to achieve Washington’s BEST Manufacturing Act, SHB 1170 (2021 Legislative Session), “goal of doubling the state’s manufacturing employment base, the number of small businesses, and the number of women and minority-owned manufacturing businesses” by 2031 through strategic workforce development assistance programs, tax incentives and business growth.
• Support legislation that protects small businesses from new taxes and fees like gift card sweeps and delivery taxes.
• Support policy solutions to the housing shortage, like rental assistance funds, while avoiding policy choices that discourage housing development like price and market controls.
• Improve public safety for our community’s businesses, their customers, and their employees.

 
​
Take Action on the Hill
​
As a member of the South Sound business community, your voice is essential to shaping the policies that impact our region. Join us in advocating for a stronger business climate by participating in Chamber events, connecting with your legislators, and staying informed about our legislative priorities.

For questions regarding the Chamber and its advocacy efforts, please contact David Schroedel, Executive Vice President, or Ryan Spence, Program Director for the Manufacturing Industrial Council.
 
Together, we can make the South Sound the best place to live, work, and do business.

Learn more about becoming a Chamber member here.

The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber (TPCC) held its annual Horizons Economic Forecast at the Greater Tacoma Convention Center in downtown Tacoma on Wednesday, January 29, 2025.

Rising with the sun were more than 400 people in attendance. The agenda was set for attendees to learn more about the 2025 economic projections nationally and for Pierce County. Attendees began the morning by networking during Coffee Connections sponsored by Commencement Bank; tehaleh; Virginia Mason Franciscan Health; and educational organizations: Bates Technical; Tacoma Community; Clover Park Technical; and Pierce College, before they were seated for breakfast. Formal programming kicked off with a literal bang via a performance from the talented youth of Lincoln High School Drumline.

Over a seated breakfast guests heard from a handful of speakers including Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland; Congresswoman Emily Randall; Port of Tacoma Commissioner Position #2 Dick Marzano; Pierce County Executive Ryan Mello; Neal Johnson, Ph.D. of Sound Resource Economics; and Keynote Speaker Angelo Kourkafas, CFA® Senior Strategist, Investment Strategy at Edward Jones. Following opening remarks and insights, Tom Layson, Managing Editor & Producer-Host of Northwest Now, KBTC Public Television, led a Q&A with Mr. Kourkafas and Dr. Johnson regarding pressing economic issues that face the region and nation.

The event featured emcees Andrea Reay, President and CEO of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, and Kierra Phifer, Board Chair for the Chamber and Public Engagement Manager Northwest for DoorDash. David Schroedel, Executive Vice President of the Chamber gave a heartfelt tribute to Dr. Bruce Mann, a beloved Economics professor at the University of Puget Sound who passed in October 2024 and contributed over the past several decades to the community and Horizons as an expert and teacher.

Guests received a copy of the Pierce County Economic Index Report for 2025 at the event. This report is a pivotal tool for understanding the county's economic health and prospects. The report, authored by Dr. Johnson, highlights a mix of growth and challenges alongside trends in GDP, labor markets, housing, and retail sales, while forecasting moderate growth and ongoing challenges for key sectors in 2025.

“This PCEI Report gives our members the insights they need to navigate the year ahead with resilience while acknowledging the headwinds still facing Pierce County. While we’re seeing progress in personal income and job creation, challenges in housing affordability and retail spending underscore the lingering effects of high interest rates and inflation,” said Andrea Reay, President & CEO, TPCC. “We hold a cautiously optimistic outlook for Pierce County. From job creation to housing affordability, this report helps our community take informed steps toward building a stronger, more equitable economy. Our commitment is to ensure that businesses—big and small—have the tools to succeed.” ​

If you have not already filled out our post event survey, please do so. You may find the survey available online here.

We are always looking to expand what we have to offer Pierce County as we strive to make the South Sound the most equitable, inclusive, and thriving place to do business in Washington State.

Thank you to everyone who spent their morning with us. We hope to see you at our next event soon!​

As Pierce County continues its trajectory, businesses, policymakers, and residents must focus on fostering resilience. Investments in education, infrastructure, and affordable housing will be critical to overcoming challenges along with monitoring federal policies on interest rates and tariffs, as these factors significantly impact the county’s economic outlook. 

The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber invites community members, stakeholders, and business leaders to explore the full Pierce County Economic Index Report, available on the Chamber’s website. ​

Opera Alley in Downtown Tacoma is where the early 1900’s newspaper publishing establishment turned wedding, and events venue aptly named “The Press Room” is located.

The Chamber held the first Chamber After Hours of the new year there on January 16, and neither the venue nor the crowd disappointed.

Over 100 guests registered and turned out to connect, build relationships, and learn more about the individuals and organizations that make the Tacoma-Pierce County region great.

With eclectic decor, comfortable furniture, and twinkling multi-colored lights, it felt like an extension of a New Year's Eve party! Jonz Catering, The Press Room’s exclusive catering and bar service vendor, provided delicious food and beverages for the attendees to enjoy while networking.

Downtown Tacoma Partnership‘s retail advocate, JD Elquist, spoke alongside Chamber president and CEO, Andrea H. Reay. Both shared how lucky Tacoma is to have a venue such as The Press Room to bring folks together for many occasions.

Reay said, “We cannot thank our venue host [The Press Room] enough for opening their doors to us...We are grateful to our Chamber ambassadors, staff, community, and members [of the Chamber] for making tonight so memorable.”

Mixing and mingling in such a welcoming and cozy space was a wonderful way to spend an otherwise gloomy Thursday night. Thank you again to our venue sponsor, The Press Room. You can find it located at 704 Court C Tacoma, WA 98402 (also known as Opera Alley) or follow their socials media platforms Facebook and Instagram.

Issued By: Tacoma Pierce County Chamber 
Date Issued: 1/15/2025 
Proposal Due Date: 2/14/2025​

Overview 
 
The Tacoma Pierce County Chamber is seeking proposals to design an accelerated cohort-based entrepreneurial training curriculum tailored for individuals and teams in the manufacturing sector. This program aims to equip participants with the tools and strategies needed to innovate, scale, and thrive in the manufacturing sector. The target participants: startups, businesses looking to scale beyond home incubation, and small to medium size businesses looking to scale capacity and workforce.  
 
The accelerated cohort model will focus on fostering collaboration, peer learning, and rapid application of concepts in a structured yet intensive timeline. ​

Scope of Work 
 
The selected vendor will develop a training program that includes: 
1. Cohort-Based Structure: A collaborative learning environment designed for peer-to-peer engagement and knowledge-sharing. 
2. Accelerated Timeline: A compressed schedule (e.g., 6-12 weeks) with regular sessions to deliver impactful learning without long-term time commitments. 
3. Core Focus Areas: 
• Entrepreneurial fundamentals (e.g. business development, capitalization, marketing, accounting, administration). 
• Manufacturing-specific topics: lean operations, supply chain management, innovation, equipment acquisition, and quality control systems. 
• Integration of advanced manufacturing technologies (e.g., automation, additive manufacturing, Industry 4.0). 
• Strategies for scaling and sustainability. 
4. Practical Applications: Hands-on activities, real-world case studies, and capstone projects tailored to participants’ manufacturing challenges. 
5. Support Materials: Development of digital and print resources, including slide decks, participant guides, facilitator manuals, and assessment tools. 
6. Delivery Method: Adaptable content for hybrid learning (in-person and online sessions) to maximize accessibility. ​

Deliverables 
 
• Cohort model framework, including session schedules and learning objectives. 
• Curriculum materials (presentations, exercises, case studies, and guides). 
• Facilitation guide for program leaders and mentors. 
• Program evaluation toolkit for participant feedback and program improvement. ​

Proposal Requirements 
 
Respondents must submit the following: 
1. Experience and Expertise: Overview of experience in entrepreneurial training and accelerated cohort-based program design. 
2. Proposed Approach: Description of how the program will address the needs of the manufacturing sector within the accelerated timeline. 
3. Work Plan and Timeline: Detailed timeline with milestones and deliverables. 
4. Budget: Itemized cost proposal for curriculum design and development. 
5. References: At least two relevant client references. ​

Evaluation Criteria 
 
Proposals will be assessed on: 
• Relevant experience and demonstrated expertise (30%) 
• Innovation and practicality of the proposed approach 20%) 
• Feasibility of the timeline (20%) 
• Cost-effectiveness (20%) 
• References and past performance (10%) ​

Submission Details 
 
Proposals must be submitted electronically by [February 14th by 5:00pm Pacific Time] to: 
[email protected] 
 
For inquiries, please contact: 
Ryan Spence  
[email protected] 
 
The Tacoma Pierce County Chamber reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or request additional clarifications. ​

Why Horizons Matters
​
In a rapidly evolving economic landscape, making informed decisions is crucial. At Horizons, we bring together top-tier economists, industry experts, and community leaders to shed light on the data, trends, and innovations that will shape Tacoma-Pierce County—and beyond—in the coming year. 

Powered by Membership 

​Horizons isn’t just an event--it’s an expression of our commitment to serving and empowering the Tacoma-Pierce County community. As part of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, your membership fuels initiatives like these, enabling us to spotlight economic drivers, champion local businesses, and foster a thriving business environment for everyone. ​

Reserve Your Spot 

​Ready to see beyond the horizon? Secure your seat at Horizons Economic Forecast 2025 and join us in steering the future of Tacoma-Pierce County. ​

Don’t miss this opportunity to start your new year—and new strategy—on a high note. By connecting data, insights, and collaboration, we can create a more prosperous future for our entire community.
 
Stay tuned for more speaker announcements and session highlights in the coming weeks via our social media! ​

On December 18, 2024, more than 350 business, nonprofit, and community leaders gathered to celebrate the season and strengthen the ties that bind us together at our annual cocktail party honoring elected officials. This year's reception was a dazzling evening of connection and celebration.

Guests joined us at the iconic LeMay-America's Car Museum, where they enjoyed delicious food and beverages, stunning ice sculptures, intricate paper cranes, and captivating calligraphy artistry. The ambiance was festive and elegant, providing the perfect setting for meaningful conversations and new connections.

During the VIP Hour, Chamber President and CEO Andrea Reay and Board Chair Kierra Phiffer recognized the remarkable contributions of exiting Pierce County Executive Bruce Dammeier. In her remarks, Reay highlighted Dammeier’s dedication to the community, emphasizing his role in fostering growth and collaboration throughout Pierce County.

The evening was made even more special by the vibrant mix of leaders in attendance, including prominent public officials, business executives, and nonprofit champions. The opportunity to mingle, share stories, and celebrate the season together showcased the strength and unity of our community.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our incredible sponsors for their generous support and to everyone who attended and contributed to the event's success. Your participation and enthusiasm make events like these possible.
​
As we welcome the new year, we encourage you to stay engaged with the Chamber’s upcoming events and initiatives. Together, we will continue to build a thriving community for all.

2024 was a year of impact, progress, and innovation for the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber and the South Sound business community. From advocating for businesses to fostering leadership and supporting creative entrepreneurs, we accomplished so much together. Here are our top 10 highlights from 2024:

This year marked an incredible milestone--140 years of the Chamber being the unifying voice for businesses in Tacoma-Pierce County. For over a century, we have championed economic growth, supported leaders, and strengthened our region. All the while, the Chamber has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of the Tacoma-Pierce County business community. Thank you for being part of this legacy!

Access to capital is a major challenge for small businesses, but we made a difference. Through partnerships like Kiva, the Chamber facilitated $983,000 (and counting) in 0% interest microloans to help small businesses grow and thrive. These loans fill a critical funding gap for emerging entrepreneurs in Pierce County that can help make businesses, rather than break them.

The Pierce County Business Accelerator (PCBA) program continued to empower over 450 BIPOC, veteran, and women-owned businesses. By providing coaching, training, and technical resources, the PCBA fostered innovation and opened doors to wealth-building opportunities for diverse business owners. It is a travesty if you missed the PCBA Showcase this year as it was stupendous; filled with amazing food, wonderful business ideas, and business owners who embody the spirit of the South Sound in their work.

Inspired by solutions explored during our Aspire Intercity Leadership Conference, the Good Neighbor Village project is now underway. By 2030, it will provide permanent housing and supportive care to 257 chronically homeless residents in Pierce County, restoring dignity and stability to our community members.

Spaceworks Tacoma continued to elevate our region’s creative economy by connecting creative entrepreneurs and artists to economic opportunity. This year, the program invested $41,860 in local artists, delivered training to creative entrepreneurs, and facilitated rotating public art installations across Tacoma. Spaceworks is transforming commercial spaces and creating new opportunities for artists and creative entrepreneurs to thrive.

Our events reached new heights this year, welcoming 4,936 attendees across meetings, forums, and signature events like the Horizons Economic Forecast and Happy Hour Business Expo. These gatherings fostered connections, celebrated successes, and inspired collaboration among local leaders.

The Chamber led advocacy efforts to address critical business challenges and drive policy change:

• Protecting key transportation projects like the Puget Sound Gateway.
• Supporting workforce development and manufacturing growth.
• Promoting policies that encourage housing construction and public safety.

 
These wins helped create a stronger, more resilient business environment for the South Sound.

The Chamber and the Manufacturing Industrial Council for the South Sound partnered with local businesses to establish the Tacoma Manufacturing Incubator. The program is aligned with Chambers commitment to support entrepreneurship and the State’s goal to double manufacturing within a decade. 
 
The Tacoma Manufacturing Incubator will create scalable manufacturing spaces, support capacity building for existing businesses, and develop a manufacturing centered curriculum designed to empower manufacturing startups with a pilot cohort scheduled for 2025. The launch of the incubator is funded in part by the Washington State Department of Commerce and the City of Tacoma. 

The World Trade Center Tacoma connected local businesses to global opportunities through international trade missions and educational programs. This year, businesses benefited from partnerships forged in East Asia, helping the South Sound remain competitive on the global stage. World Trade Center Tacoma also conducted its annual flagship event, the World Trade Center Tacoma Globe Awards, in September, which recognized excellence in international trade. 

We continued investing in leadership development through programs like the Business Leadership Academy and the foundation of the Candidates Academy. By equipping future leaders with skills, mentorship, and connections, we are building a strong foundation for the next generation of business and community leaders.

As we celebrate these milestones, we are excited for what lies ahead. Together, we will continue to strengthen our economy, foster innovation, and empower leaders in the South Sound. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey—cheers to a bright year ahead!

Holiday Cafe, located in Downtown Puyallup off West Pioneer Avenue and South Meridian, is a cafe that both parents and their children can enjoy. Owner Nichole Thacker acquired the building earlier this year and spent the last six months working with her ‘village’ renovating the space to transform it. Thacker’s village is comprised of her Church small group, her family and friends, and her employees. She said, “the whole vision behind ‘we are a village’ is we are not called to do life alone. We need [each other], we need people, and I hope that you can find that here.”
 
Walking in you can drop your children off in the play area before stopping at the register to place your order. Holiday Cafe offers a variety of food and beverages to select from on its menu. Because the space has high ceilings and many windows it is bright, spacious, and welcoming. There are various soft seating options along with stools along a half wall overlooking the play area if you’d prefer watching your children as you enjoy your order.
 
At the Chamber facilitated ribbon cutting ceremony was Mayor Jim Kastama and City Manager Steve Kirkelie of the City of Puyallup.
 
“The City of Puyallup used to be a sleepy town where folks would have rather gone outside of the city for leisure. It is because of places like [Holiday Cafe] that this town is really turning around and becoming vibrant,” said Mayor Kastama.
 
Printed on the cafe’s storefront is a statement that reads, “celebrate something daily.” The Chamber is grateful to celebrate this opening with Thacker and her village and continue to celebrate successes every day in the business community.  
 
Holiday Cafe is located at 103 West Pioneer, Puyallup, WA 98371. Be sure to follow its journey on Facebook and Instagram.

Soulberry Coffee House is celebrating its one-year anniversary serving the community from its location on Court A between S. 24th and 2nd Street. This hidden gem is a safe, welcoming space, where everyone can enjoy a freshly brewed caffeinated beverage or a carefully curated, non-alcoholic creation. It’s a place where students can go to study, friends and families can gather, musicians can play, and meetings can take place.
​
“We wanted an atmosphere that feels like magic once you walk-in. That is what we have. When you step through those doors, it is magic,” said Terri Quintana-Jessen, owner and head roaster.
 
With dozens of varieties and brands of beverages, as well as beverage additions, there is something for everyone. Quintana-Jessen put a lot of time and effort into finding her products and is proud to offer them.  
 
“The beauty of a mocktail is you can come in at 9:00am and sip on something with no ill-effects," she said when asked about the Soulberry experience.
 
A month after acquiring the building, Soulberry Coffee House opened its doors to the public, but chose to keep its presence under the radar. It has been a year since that date, and it is now a fully functioning coffee house by day, and dry speakeasy by night.
 
Because the mocktail market is still relatively new, especially in Tacoma-Pierce County, Quintana-Jessen has been sought out by hotels in the area to consult for them on their non-alcoholic beverage menus. Quintana-Jessen capitalized on her advantage of having non-alcoholic beverage-specific knowledge and will soon be offering a full-service N-A Consulting business.
 
Soulberry Coffee House offers a thoughtfully designed menu, from rich espresso shots and creamy lattes to calming artisan teas. Each drink reflects the essence of third-wave coffee roasting—prioritizing sustainability, top-tier quality, and a deep appreciation for the coffee bean’s journey.
 
The Chamber is thrilled to celebrate Soulberry Coffee’s one-year anniversary and congratulates Quintana-Jessen on her journey of extensive research and professional growth. Quintana-Jessen is a graduate of the Pierce County Business Accelerator program and is one of the leading nonalcoholic cocktail bars in the State.

Soulberry Coffee House is located at 2310 Court A Tacoma Wa 98402. You can also follow the Soulberry Coffee House for updates on Facebook and Instagram.

For 140 years, the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber has been a member-powered organization serving as a bridge to Pierce County residents, local businesses, public officials, and the government. The Chamber celebrates the shared progress and meaningful relationships that have been fostered over the years, and remains committed to building an inclusive, equitable, and prosperous South Sound community. 
 
Join the Chamber’s highly engaged and ever-growing community today: www.tacomachamber.org/join.html.  
 
Stay up to date with the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber by subscribing to the Chamber’s newsletter, and following the Chamber on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter / X, and YouTube. ​

On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, Spaceworks Tacoma proudly celebrated the graduation of its Fall 2024 Business Plan Cohort. 
 
The 12-week Business Plan Cohort serves as the cornerstone of the Spaceworks Incubator program. Designed for entrepreneurs who have already tested their product or service in the market – whether with friends and family, online platforms, like Etsy, or physical storefronts – the program equips participants with the tools they need to thrive. By the end of the program, participants have successfully completed a business plan and delivered a final pitch, marking a significant milestone in their entrepreneurial journey.
 
What sets this program apart is its emphasis on community. With a cohort model, the Chamber and Spaceworks team can foster collaboration and emotional support bidirectionally, whether it be from peer-to-peer or participant-to-mentor, ensuring they are never alone on their path to success. Graduates join a network of over 400 alumni and become part of a growing business and arts community eager to support their success.
 
This cohort exemplifies the values that make Tacoma a vibrant place to live and work. Their dedication demonstrates a deep commitment to their community and showcases not only a creative entrepreneurial spirit but also compassion and leadership. Their impact extends beyond the products and services they provide, shaping Tacoma into a more dynamic and connected city.      
      
Follow Spaceworks on Instagram and Facebook to learn more about the impact it is making in Pierce County.

The Tideflats Subarea Plan recently reached a critical milestone with a unanimous recommendation for adoption from the Tideflats Steering Committee. This landmark decision marks the culmination of seven years of collaborative planning between the City of Tacoma, Puyallup Tribe of Indians, Port of Tacoma, Pierce County, and the City of Fife.

"This is a historic achievement in our journey towards a sustainable and prosperous future for Tacoma. The unanimous recommendation for adoption of the Tideflats Subarea Plan by the five-government Tideflats Steering Committee is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision,” said Mayor Victoria Woodards. “Over the past seven years, our collective efforts have led us to a plan that harmonizes industrial growth with environmental stewardship, addresses community needs, and ensures the long-term resilience of our region. The Tideflats Subarea Plan is a model for future planning in industrial areas, and we are proud of the work that has been accomplished by the Tideflats Steering Committee. I also want to extend my appreciation to our business community and stakeholders who contributed their time, expertise, and passion to shape this plan. Together, we are paving the way for a brighter, greener future."

The Tideflats Steering Committee, comprised of elected representatives from each of the five partner organizations, was convened in 2018 to guide the development of the Subarea Plan. The plan balances industrial growth with environmental protection, community needs, and the long-term resilience of the region.

The steering committee's efforts have been bolstered by thousands of community comments, countless staff presentations and expert analysis, and the perspectives of diverse stakeholders. These include neighborhood organizations, business interests in the Port of Tacoma, and members of the Tideflats Advisory Committee. This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication, engagement, and collaboration of the broader community.

“I am incredibly proud of the work that we have accomplished on the Tideflats Subarea Plan. Five governments and multiple stakeholders came together in partnership to develop the best possible plan for all stakeholders,” said Council Member Kristina Walker. “The outstanding collaboration that has gone into this work enabled us to integrate vital environmental goals and improvements to transportation infrastructure that will reduce our carbon footprint and help us transition to cleaner energy sources in the Tideflats. I want to share my sincere appreciation for everyone that has weighed in on this project and helped to ensure that we took a coordinated approach to problem-solving. I have no doubt that our robust stakeholder dialogue will ensure the long-term success of this plan.”

The Steering Committee's recommendation will be transmitted to the City Council and Tacoma Planning Commission. The Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing and comment period in early 2025 and is expected to provide their recommendations to the City Council in Spring 2025, followed by City Council consideration and possible adoption in Summer 2025.

Details on the Tideflats Subarea Planning Project are available here.

Community members with questions about this project can contact Stephen Atkinson at [email protected] or (253) 905-4146.

The Barlow Gallery now has two stunning locations in Tacoma with the second recently opening in the art-centric Hotel Murano off Broadway Street. Hotel Murano is known for its private collection of art from around the world spread throughout the entire lodging; even the name was taken from the Murano Island in Italy, famous for its glass making. The Barlow Gallery is the icing on the cake perfectly intertwined with the rich history on display within the building.
 
The Barlow Gallery exhibits a variety of media produced by over 20 artists from the region alongside global artists, including jewelry by Joel Arellano Castillo, photography by Dean Burke, mixed media by Vallary Swington-Marsalis, and paintings from Javan McGriff. The Barlow Gallery lists the art for sale both in the gallery and online, and is an excellent resource for individuals decorating a space, who may need a gift, or who are active patrons of the arts. The gallery’s new location within the Hotel Murano is just off the main lobby and it offers a cozy space with sunshine filtering in to showcase the beautiful canvases, jewelry, sculptures, and more creations that are available to enjoy.
 
The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber was invited to celebrate the grand opening of the second gallery space and was joined by dozens of artists whose pieces were on display. The grand opening was also attended by members of the Downtown Tacoma Partnership, and TV Tacoma was present to cover the festivities.
 
Ron Stevenson, co-founder, website manager, and photographer for the Barlow Gallery, along with Rachel René, co-founder and manager for the Barlow Gallery were joined by Thomas Pavlik, the general manager of Hotel Murano who was happy to speak on the opening of this Gallery.
 
Pavlik noted being grateful that Ron and Rachel had chosen his hotel to be the home of the second Barlow Gallery and that it wouldn't make sense to be on display anywhere else than inside the Hotel Murano.
 
“The creative economy is a driving force in Tacoma-Pierce County,” said Chamber President & CEO Andrea Reay, in her opening remarks. “We are very lucky to have such a vibrant community, and the Chamber recognizes this through our Spaceworks program. It is so wonderful to see how many local artists have procured art to go on display here in the Hotel Murano.”
 
The newest location of the Barlow Gallery is located at 1320 Broadway, Tacoma, WA 98402. You can also follow the Barlow Gallery for news and updates on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter / X, or Pinterest.

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 two most recent PCBA cohorts have 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 19 & 20 graduations below and learn more about the Pierce County Business Accelerator at www.pcba.biz!