The City of Seattle is taking significant steps to fill empty storefronts and support businesses looking for new commercial space. A new law, CB 121047, is changing the City’s building code, specifically how “substantial alterations” are handled. This reduces the time, cost, and complexity for small businesses looking to open… [ Keep reading ]
The City of Seattle is taking significant steps to fill empty storefronts and support businesses looking for new commercial space. A new law, CB 121047, is changing the City’s building code, specifically how “substantial alterations” are handled. This reduces the time, cost, and complexity for small businesses looking to open… [ Keep reading ]
Seattle’s small businesses are the vibrant core of our neighborhoods and a crucial engine for our local economy. We are committed to listening to the needs of business owners and taking action to support them. Recent initiatives, announced by Mayor Bruce Harrell, demonstrate our dedication to cutting red tape, reducing… [ Keep reading ]
Equitable access to affordable capital is a fundamental part of the work our office does to build an inclusive economy for all. As part of that effort, we are recruiting a new cohort of Capital Readiness service providers for 2025 – 2026 through the Request for Proposal process. Responses are… [ Keep reading ]
Small businesses are the heart of our communities and the backbone of our economy. Unexpected expenses from vandalism and property damage can create real and burdensome financial challenges from repairs and restoration. We designed the Back to Business program to help businesses overcome these challenges so they can focus on… [ Keep reading ]
The Capital Access Program is a dedicated initiative designed to empower small businesses, particularly those historically marginalized and facing financial constraints. By providing equitable access to affordable capital, CAP aims to create a more level playing field for these businesses. The program is guided by three primary objectives: CAP pays… [ Keep reading ]
We’re excited to announce that applications for the 2025 Tenant Improvement Program are open! This year’s program will invest $800,000 in sign and equipment funding. Businesses can apply for up to $15,000 to purchase a sign, or up to $50,000 to purchase equipment that is essential to their business purpose…. [ Keep reading ]
National Small Business Week is a time to celebrate the incredible contributions of small businesses and the vital role they play in our community. In Seattle, small businesses are more than just the backbone of our local economy: they represent the creativity, vibrancy, diversity, and entrepreneurial spirit that make our… [ Keep reading ]
Written by Celwyn Green, Commercial Space Consultant Manager We’re refreshing and expanding the consultant roster for immediate use and for future needs of the Commercial Space Consultant Program and Tenant Improvement Program through the Request for Qualifications process. Updating this roster will make our services more effective and give our… [ Keep reading ]
Our office issued the 800th and final Storefront Repair Fund grant, surpassing a total investment of $1.6 million in small businesses for storefront damage repair and recovery. The last $2,000 grant was awarded to Casa Del Mariachi a beloved vegetarian restaurant in the Pinehurst neighborhood of North Seattle known for… [ Keep reading ]
