OED Updates: Future of Seattle Economy, Downtown is Buzzing, Resources, and more!

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Celebrating Latino Hispanic Heritage Month

latino hispanic heritage month graphic

In celebration of Latino Hispanic Heritage Month, we are sharing stories across the city about the people, places, businesses, and organizations that amplify the fabric of Seattle’s Latino/a/x community. We are honored by the diverse cultures, histories, and contributions of people who make our cities and communities bountiful.

📖 Read more community stories
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Stories courtesy of Department of Neighborhoods

 


OED and Community Partners Present the Future of Seattle Economy Framework

The Seattle City Council approved a resolution establishing a community-driven framework for inclusive investment in Seattle’s economic recovery. The Future of Seattle Economy report identifies investments needed to make Seattle a desirable place to live, work, and visit. It presents a detailed strategy that identifies investments needed to address the impacts of COVID-19 in the near term and create an economically diverse, just, and resilient city over the long term.

The Future of Seattle Economy encompasses five pillars:

  • Investing in Talent and Building our Workforce
  • Supporting Small Business and Women- and Minority-Owned Business Enterprises
  • Building BIPOC Community Wealth
  • Investing in Neighborhood Business Districts
  • Growing Businesses and Key Industries

📖 Read more on our Bottom Line Blog

Downtown Is You!

We are excited to continue sharing updates about the Downtown Activation Plan, a collaborative effort to revitalize the heart of Seattle and make it a welcoming and lively place for everyone. You can learn more about the plan and how you can get involved at downtownisyou.com.

Two people engaging in a discussion about activating Downtown Seattle.

Downtown is Listening: 
Engagement Opportunities

Share your thoughts and ideas on our online feedback form, or join us for one of our listening sessions, focus groups, or office hours.

Join the conversation!

Mayor Harrell signs Downtown Activation Plan legislative priorities

Mayor Harrell Signs into Law Early Legislative Priorities

New legislative actions deliver on the seven bold goals identified in the Downtown Activation Plan.

Read the full blog

 

Young girls playing basketball

Seattle Slam Showdown:
Youth Basketball Tournament

Nearly 200 youth from across the city came together to play basketball and celebrated the talent, passion, and sportsmanship of Seattle’s youth.

🎥 Watch the full video by Converge

Four individuals playing a pickleball match

Pickleball for All

The tournament welcomed players of all ages and experience levels to participate and a new permanent pickleball court was unveiled at the Taylor and 5th Ave Plaza.

🎥 Watch the full video by Converge

Meet Our New Creative Economy Manager!

James Miles

We are excited to welcome James Miles to the team as our new creative economy manager! 🎉

James brings terrific experience to OED, including his most recent role as executive director of Third Stone which, in collaboration with New Rising Sun, produced a fantastic, refreshed Bumbershoot Festival this year.

📖 Read more on our Bottom Line Blog

 

 

Upcoming Community Events

Seattle Restaurant Week 🍴😋

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Eat at the Peak this season during Seattle Restaurant Week, from Oct. 22 – Nov 4. Support local restaurants, pop-ups, food trucks, and more. 

We are proud to be a Seattle Restaurant Week sponsor, celebrating our city’s diverse and innovative culinary community. 

See who's participating!

 


Cloudbreak is Back! 🎵

Cloudbreak Logo

Seattle's Citywide Live Music Festival returns for a second year from Nov. 1–22! We are proud to be a partner with Visit Seattle and King County Creative in this year's edition.

Details and the latest lineup 

 

City Resources and Opportunities

Capital Access Program

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We’re excited to expand and update our Capital Access Program, a multifaceted initiative aimed at empowering businesses, particularly BIPOC, women, and immigrant business owners, to access affordable financing to grow their business, with the financial tools and resources they need to thrive.

We invite your organization to participate in the Small Business Capital Readiness Support Program through the Request for Qualifications process. 

📝 Participate in the Small Business Capital Readiness Support Program!


OED is Hiring!

'OED is hiring' blue graphic flyer

⭐ Are you ready to make a meaningful impact in your community? We're looking for a Business District Advocate to join our team.

⭐ We are also seeking a Special Events Program Manager who will lead the coordination of the growing number of major permitted events in the City.

⭐ As Division Director, you will provide strategic direction and development to Small Business and Key Industries and Workforce Development teams.

💼 Check out the listings and apply today!


OED is on LinkedIn!

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Come join us on LinkedIn and stay in the know! Get the latest updates on our projects, network with other professionals, and learn from our industry experts!

📱 Follow us on LinkedIn!