Wrapping up 2023

Office of Economic Development logo

Celebrating Our Work in 2023! 🎉

Group of OED Staff Members in front of red art installation

We're closing out 2023 and looking back at all our team was able to accomplish this year.

Everything we did worked towards our overarching goal of championing inclusive economic growth so everyone in Seattle can enjoy quality jobs at thriving businesses in vibrant neighborhoods. 

There's still a lot of work to do, but we're proud of what we accomplished this year. Check out the highlights from 2023 and see where we're heading in the new year!

🎆 2023 Year in Review 🎆

 

Downtown is You!

We are excited to continue sharing updates about the Downtown Activation Plan, a collaborative effort to revitalize the heart of Seattle. Check out the plan and get involved at downtownisyou.com. You can also join the Good News Downtown mailing list.

Kraken player faces off opponent by ref

Kraken Play Golden Knights in NHL Winter Classic

The puck drops at noon in T-Mobile Park on New Year's Day for the annual outdoor winter game. 🏒❄ Nearly 50,000 people are expected to attend. Be sure to check out the free, two-day long outdoor fan village too! 

 

Winter Classic Events

Mayor Harrell unveiling plaque at pike place market

New Cherry Blossom Trees in Pike Place Market

Mayor Harrell and the Consul-General of Japan unveiled a new plaque in December to complement eight new cherry blossom trees planted near Pike Place Market. And 16 more will be planted nearby in 2024! 🌸

 

Details on the New Trees

Storefront Repair Fund Distributes $1 Million

Storefront Repair Fund 1 million distributed to repair storefronts graphic

This month we sent out the 500th check through the Storefront Repair Fund! This means $1 million distributed to small businesses to help repair their damaged storefronts. 

There are still funds available. Small business owners can apply for the $2,000 grants to cover property damage including fences, gates, signs, or windows. 

 

City Resources and Opportunities

International Special Review District Board Opening

Chinatown International District Building Facade

The community is invited to apply for an open position on the International Special Review District Board. An elected position (Position #3 - Business Owner, Property Owner, or Employee) is vacant and will be filled through a Mayoral appointment. 

The board's goal is to maintain the architectural character, cultural heritage, social diversity, and enhance the economic climate of Seattle's Chinatown-International District. They review items such as facade alterations and new construction before making recommendations to the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods. The appointee will complete the remainder of the elected term which ends November 30, 2024. 

🖊 Learn about the board and apply here

 


Liberty Project Taking Applications

Mayor Harrell underneath the Liberty Bank Building sign

Seattle business owners are encouraged to apply for Liberty Project. This new program pushes forward underrepresented communities in Seattle, especially Black-owned businesses. 

The program will offer an array of support including business consulting, finance and accounting services, marketing services, technology services, and contract bid preparation. The initiative will serve businesses in six priority industries: retail, personal services, commercial construction, food and beverage manufacturing, restaurant, and power utilities contract industries.

📝 Apply for The Liberty Project