2024 was a year marked by incredible milestones for the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber and our local business community!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: 1. 140 Years of Serving Our Business Community 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! 2. Distributing $983K in Microloans for Small Businesses 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. 3. Celebrating Success in the Pierce County Business Accelerator 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. 4. The Good Neighbor Village Breaks Ground 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. 5. Spaceworks Tacoma: Empowering Creatives 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. 6. Record-Breaking Events & Community Engagement 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. 7. Advocacy That Makes an Impact ![]() Attendees of the Chamber’s 2024 Legislative Advocacy Day visit Olympia, Wash. From left to right: Curt Kohlwes, Director of Government Relations at University of Washington Tacoma; Zach Correia, Government Relations Analyst at MultiCare Health Systems; Jessica Johnson, Director of Court House Square; Andrea H. Reay, President & CEO at Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber; and Senator Chris Gildon, Washington’s 25th Legislative District. The Chamber led advocacy efforts to address critical business challenges and drive policy change:
These wins helped create a stronger, more resilient business environment for the South Sound. 8. Launch of the Tacoma Manufacturing Incubator 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. 9. World Trade Center Tacoma’s Global Impact ![]() (L to R) Michael Fowler, executive director at the World Trade Center Tacoma; David Graybill, Board Chair for World Trade Center Tacoma; Raymond Cheung, president, SeaTac Packaging Manufacturing Corp.; and Betty Capestany, director, economic development at Pierce County; celebrate SeaTac Packaging Manufacturing Corp.’s win at the 2024 World Trade Center Tacoma Globe Awards. 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. 10. Developing Future Leaders 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. Looking Ahead to 2025 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. Key features of the Tideflats Subarea Plan include:
“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! Cohort 19 Graduation Photos Cohort 20 Graduation Photos On November 14, 2024, the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber hosted a graduation luncheon for the 46th Business Leadership Academy (BLA). This cohort included 20 participants with diverse backgrounds from across the South Sound. The BLA of Tacoma-Pierce County, sponsored by the Chamber and Pacific Lutheran University, is a regional community leadership program founded in 1978. BLA is an opportunity for current and emerging leaders to engage with the business community while developing leadership skills and interacting with exemplary leaders in the field. Over the course of nine weeks BLA participants:
The Chamber and members of cohort 20 are especially grateful for the contributions and leadership of Dr. Catherine Pratt, Resident Assistant Professor, PLU School of Business. The majority of the participants, prompted by Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber’s Chief Executive Officer, Andrea Reay, shared their appreciation for Dr. Pratt, their fellow cohort members, and additional leaders who helped shape the course of the program. “This was impactful and appreciated. Thank you for your leadership and coordination, Catherine and Andrew.” “Catherine was wonderful – great instructor; very supportive of us as a group and individually.” “I have had the opportunity to be enrolled into a few different versions of a leadership academy. This is one of the more well-run courses, and the information shared in class to supplement the reading was great.” “I am so thankful that I was able to be a part of this class. It has helped me to see the strengths that I didn’t see, as well as areas that I want to improve and learn more about.” “This program has made me a better person.” If you are interested in participating in the next Business Leadership Academy, please contact Andrew Parks, Technical Assistant & Program Coordinator. Welcome to the new members who joined our business community in November 2024:
|
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
February 2025
Categories
All
|