The Seattle Office of Economic Development is celebrating small businesses, workers and neighborhood district partners who made a difference during the pandemic. Hear how small businesses and neighborhood district partners experienced the pandemic and overcame challenges. Refreshments will be provided. Refreshments provided.

• 1:30PM: Doors open
• 2:00PM: Program begins
• 2:40PM: Networking
• 3:00PM: Program ends

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed growing economic disparities for small businesses and workers, especially for Black, Indigenous and people of color communities. At the same time, the pandemic highlighted community resilience and the need for community wealth building. Small businesses offered hot meals to community members who are food insecure. Neighborhood business districts supported small businesses by conducting grant and resource outreach, in-language interpretation, and neighborhood online markets to connect small businesses with customers.

The Office of Economic Development’s Only in Seattle Initiative strives to build an equitable and vibrant city by fostering neighborhood business districts that are centers of local commerce, community and culture. With seed funding and expertise, the Initiative supports local businesses, building owners, and residents to unite around a common vision for their district and work together to achieve it. From business coaching, community festivals and litter cleanup, to murals, outreach and real estate development, Seattle's business districts have used Only in Seattle funding and technical assistance to tackle tough issues, attract new investment and care for their communities.

This event is a free outdoor event and open to the public. All ages are welcome. Masks will be required for those who are not vaccinated and optional for those who are vaccinated.

Questions or for ADA accommodations or accessibility information, contact Business Improvement Area Advocate Phillip Sit at 206-256-5137 or Phillip.Sit@seattle.gov.