Change Starts Here Sourcing Forum

On March 14, 2025, the Change Starts Here Sourcing Forum brought together small businesses and key decision-makers in the hospitality industry for a day of networking, collaboration, and opportunity in Seattle. The event was designed to create direct access between entrepreneurs and hospitality buyers. Tyrone Stoudemire, Senior Vice President of Hyatt, says,

“Hyatt’s commitment to small and medium-sized businesses will help us as we continue to grow and look for new ideas and new concepts. We have seen businesses showcase anywhere from window washers to fragrances, clothing, hot sauce, beverage options- a number of things- really just new inventions, ideas, and concepts that we can integrate into our hotels.”

Creating Real Access for Entrepreneurs

The forum kicked off with a reception the evening before, giving business owners the rare opportunity to pitch their products and services face-to-face with decision-makers in the hospitality sector. This level of support is essential for leveling the competitive landscape. Efrem Fesaha, owner of Boon Boona Coffee says,

“Being here at the Expo is really an opportunity to connect with a lot of great, great partners. So far, we’ve met a lot of General Managers and a lot of leaders within the hospitality industry, and we’re excited to see what comes from that.”

Without events like the Change Starts Here Forum, businesses rely on cold outreach or third-party channels, which often lead to minimal results. The forum broke down these obstacles, creating a space for authentic connections and partnerships. Gloria Dixon, Director of Philanthropy and Executive Director of the BECU Foundation says,

“Small Businesses are the economic backbone of the economy in our cities. It meant a lot to us to have this opportunity to bring together small businesses of all kinds and get an opportunity for them to be face to face with decision-makers.”

Success Stories from the Forum

The forum sparked real success stories. Achava Cleaning secured a contract for professional window cleaning services and Yele Dinnerware made an immediate sale with a nearby business showcase. Many participants reported sales, promising leads, and expanding connections, highlighting the Forum’s role as a catalyst for growth and expansion. Tyrone Stoudemire, Senior Vice President of Hyatt, says,

“I think this has been a great model, and some deals were made. We have a contract signed on the spot with Achava Cleaning company, so there’s been an immediate impact. Everybody made a good connection, and some have walked away with some opportunities that will start as early as Monday; it’s been nothing short of amazing.”

Business owners also had the opportunity to refine their pitches, understand what buyers were looking for, and gain insights into market demands. For many, these conversations led to valuable feedback that will help them further tailor their products and services to meet industry needs.

Networking and Learning Opportunities

In addition to the Business Showcase, the Forum included a Financial Services Advisory Hub offering guidance and support. Joe Sky-Tucker, CEO & President of Business Impact NW, says,

“The Change Starts Here Sourcing Forum opens the door for small businesses to get in front of buyers and decision-makers for procurement opportunities. This opportunity is rare for small businesses, and we are dedicated to facilitating it and supporting these small businesses with engaging networking events and financial support as part of our overall mission.

A Vibrant Mix of Innovation

Businesses from across the region showcased standout products designed for hospitality spaces. Food-based vendors introduced sustainable and unique offerings—from compostable dinnerware by DTOCs and Yele Dinnerware to Papa Tony’s Hot Sauce, Junebug’s Hallelujah Sauce, custom macarons by Macodon’s, and luxury self-care items from Queen Care. Amanda Caupain from Black Futures Fund states,

“The event is a great expression of transforming the business sector.”

Other industries were represented too. Largo Tents, which showcased innovative outdoor options that gained traction during and after the Covid-19 pandemic. The forum attracted national small businesses as well, including Bridgeforth Wolf & Associates—a promotional and branding firm—along with Transcend, a trendy fashion label aspiring to carve out a niche in hotel spaces, and the flavorful Island Bwoy Cuisine. Island Bwoy Cuisine, known for its island inspired jerk seasonings and jerk sausages markets to high-end supermarkets and restaurants. CEO, Mark Henry says,

“This experience has certainly allowed me to meet with business leaders in different hotels, share our product in a short space of time, and win people over. This event has been nothing short of phenomenal, and I definitely recommend it to whoever has the opportunity, to get a chance to showcase their products.”  

From Vision to Reality: Kelvis’s Story

At the heart of the Sourcing Forum is the vision of Kelvis Quaynor, the owner of Back of House Concepts. Kelvis started his career at Hyatt, honing his skills in the hospitality industry. In 2012, he moved on to work with a friend, launching a new venture. However, the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 dramatically shifted the landscape, leading Kelvis and his business partner to make the decision to go their separate ways. Despite these challenges, Kelvis relied on his resilience and drive to innovate, eventually starting his own business. He says,

“Never did I think could be a business owner, but I think when my back was against the wall and I had to get up, the other thing I saw is that I had to do it for myself now.”

Kelvis’s entrepreneurial mindset—treating every job like a step toward his own success—became a philosophy that now supports others. His focus on relationships and trust is what ultimately led to the development of the Change Starts Here Forum. Kelvis emphasizes,

“The business is important, but the relationship with building the people because people want to do business with people that they know they can trust. Know that the level of integrity you have will carry you to so many places and the capital you have, you might have capital, but without relationships, that isn’t going to go far.”

Upon seeing the success of the Change Starts Here Forum, Kelvis states,

I view this idea as a seed that is just starting to grow. While it’s true that anyone can have a seed, not every environment fosters its development. I’m thankful that this idea has the opportunity to thrive here, and I eagerly anticipate the strong tree it will become, with branches that benefit the entire community. I look forward to enjoying the fruits of its success together.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

The Change Starts Here Sourcing Forum was made possible thanks to the generous support of our sponsors. Their commitment to small business growth within the hospitality industry is deeply appreciated. A special thank you goes out to Hyatt, BECU, Back of House Concepts, Grow America, Black Future Co-Op Fund, and Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle.

To learn how Business Impact NW can support your growth and connect you with networking opportunities like the Change Starts Here Sourcing Forum, click here.