LOCAL
FIRST
MEANS

‍PEOPLE
FIRST.

We bring Tacoma’s small businesses together to build a stronger voice, challenge what’s holding us back, and create an environment where small businesses can thrive.

Because, when local businesses have the knowledge, resources, and support to succeed, Tacoma has a stronger foundation for growth.

WHERE WE’RE FOCUSED

Peer to Peer Education

We turn information into opportunity. Through workshops, events, and education, we help local businesses learn about everything from marketing and accounting to leases, property, business structure, regulations, policy, and more.

Community Building & Networking Events

We bring Tacoma’s business community together to build relationships, share what works (or doesn’t), and create connections that lead to collaboration and opportunity.

Civic Engagement & Funding Resources

We help make policy information and funding opportunities easier to find and navigate, putting the right information, resources, and opportunities in front of the businesses that need them.

Small business owners are often buried in the day-to-day, serving customers, managing people, and keeping the lights on. That can make it hard to keep up with resources, funding, policies, and other opportunities.

We help cut through the noise, surface what matters, and connect you to the information, people, and resources that can help your local business thrive.

GET INVOLVED

Whether you want to join our mailing list, show up and connect at an event or even volunteer in some way, there’s a place for you here. Get involved, share what you know, and help build a stronger voice for Tacoma’s small businesses.

WHY
LOCAL
MATTERS

more money recirculates in our local economy when you shop independent vs. chain

3X

48%

of Washington workers are employed by small businesses

61%

of net new jobs since 1995 were created by small businesses