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.
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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.