Each year, the WWBC, a program of Business Impact NW, hosts Celebrating Dreams- a vibrant event dedicated to showcasing and uplifting entrepreneurs. This year Celebrating Dreams was held at the incredible Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center in serene Discovery Park in Seattle. The event was a resounding success, drawing in over 220 attendees and featuring more than 50 dynamic businesses. The energy in the room was palpable, brimming with opportunities, support, and empowerment.
Emily Yoder, EA Operations Manager for Business Impact NW says, “Every year during Celebrating Dreams, I am inspired by all of the creative ideas. It is also a great environment to celebrate and lift up other business owners.”
A Gathering of Visionaries and Supporters
Celebrating Dreams is more than an event. It’s a meeting of passionate entrepreneurs, established business leaders, community supporters, and valuable resource suppliers. Encouraging networking and collaboration, the showcase provides a unique platform to connect with other businesses. Paving the way for growth and innovation, Celebrating Dreams empowers entrepreneurs. The room buzzed with excitement as attendees explored the diverse range of products and services on display. From innovative tech solutions to creative handmade goods, the variety and quality of the showcased businesses highlighted the ingenuity and resilience of entrepreneurs.
Resource partners from across the small business support ecosystem mingled with both guests and attendees, making important connections with each other that will bear fruit for years to come. In addition, we had amazing speakers to inspire the showcases and guests alike, with Melissa Bathum from Freemind Seattle, Melanie Norton, Director of the SBA Seattle District Office, Beto Yarce, SBA Regional Administrator, Zora Aman from Verity Credit Union, Jimmy Ng, SR Business Banking Relationship Manager at Key Bank, and our very own Joe Sky-Tucker, CEO of Business Impact NW.
Jimmy Ng of Key Bank states, “KeyBank believes small business is the backbone of a thriving community. Business owners and leaders positively impact our economy and community in powerful ways every day, which is evident based on the strength and diversity seen at Celebrating Dreams. KeyBank is proud to support this event, business owners and the dreams of many”
With two food trucks right outside the front door of the event, guests were able to step outside and enjoy the beautiful day while indulging in fry bread tacos from Off the Rez, a women-owned and native-owned small business, and from Mami Tran, a woman-owned small business who was one of our Showcases at last year’s event.
SBA Beto Yarce Makes Special Visit To Celebrating Dreams
This year, the event was graced by the presence of Beto Yarce, the SBA Regional Administrator for Region 10, whose appearance added a special touch to the evening. Having been a previous small business owner and part of the community for over 20 years, Beto understands entrepreneurship from a personal perspective. His presence highlighted the importance of supporting entrepreneurs and the vital role they play in the economic landscape. He states, “I really understand what it takes to start your own business. I started my own with $250 at a farmer’s market, so I always like to share a bit of my story, so you know, I see you, I hear you.” While discussing the growth of small businesses, particularly in Washington state, he says, “We are rocking it! We are doing very well, and that’s because of businesses like Business Impact NW.”
Maria Mason Award
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Maria Mason Award, which was bestowed upon Tina Narron from Verity Credit Union. Maria Mason, one of our long-time volunteers, has consistently gone above and beyond in her dedication to advocacy for her community and Business Impact NW. Tina’s dedication and contributions to the community embody the spirit of the award, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps. Accepting the award on her behalf was Zora Aman.
Showcasing Resilience, Innovation, And Growth
Among the businesses that participated, Highland Park Corner Store shared a special history with Business Impact NW. Meaghan Massoth, owner, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to showcase her store and from securing funding. Meaghan worked with Business Impact NW to obtain funding assistance in order to launch Highland Park Corner Store in 2021. As of 2024, there are three locations and Meaghan continues to work with Business Impact NW for further coaching, networking, and additional opportunities for her thriving business. Meaghan’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the crucial role that Business Impact NW and events like Celebrating Dreams plays in helping businesses thrive.
Meaghan states, “Business Impact NW, was able to make something that I didn’t actually think was possible, become possible with the funding assistance and confidence.”
Claire Appelmans is the Founder of Living Earth Sex Ed. She offers online classes and private consultation sessions for health and education. She has been working with her coach, Miriam, for nearly six months. Claire and Miriam have worked together to build her confidence and practice her pitch. Miriam also helped her prepare to attend Celebrating Dreams.
“Business Impact NW is a lifeline! In my experience, I am a one person show, having another person who has understood my journey and has been there through my ups and downs, motivates me to continue doing what I am doing.”
A Night of Networking and Celebration
In addition to the showcase, the event featured several raffle prizes. This added an element of fun and anticipation to the evening. These prizes, won by playing an interactive round of Bingo, further demonstrating the collaborative spirit of Celebrating Dreams.
Amongst the raffle, the event also provided additional opportunities for meaningful networking. Entrepreneurs had the chance to forge new connections, explore potential collaborations, and gain insights from established business leaders. The sense of community and mutual support was unmistakable. Celebrating Dreams is an event where ideas can flourish, and dreams can take flight.
Sean O’Mealia, Vice President of BECU and Board Member of Business Impact NW, states, “This event, Celebrating Dreams, what I really loved is seeing the variety of businesses Business Impact NW works with, and that’s been really inspiring.” He goes on to state, “ With Business Impact NW, this is how communities are formed- with small businesses and communities growing and getting supported, and it’s inspiring to help.”
Looking Forward
As the night drew to a close, the excitement and positivity lingered, leaving attendees inspired and motivated. Celebrating Dreams is more than an annual event; it’s a testament to the strength and potential of entrepreneurs. Business Impact NW’s unwavering commitment to serving business owners continues to create a ripple effect of empowerment and success.
“It was certainly a memorable event, and I wish could still be there, exploring all the Showcases and meeting with all the entrepreneurs making moves in their businesses as the gentle afternoon breeze flows through the room carrying the sounds of laughter and happiness to every corner.” says Jessica Vidican-Niesius
We look forward to next year’s event, anticipating even more inspiring stories, innovative businesses, and valuable connections. Together, we can create a thriving business community.
To view the online showcase, available until May 1st, click here.
If you would like more information on the WBC, click here.
To find out more about how you can receive funding to grow your business, click here.
About the author
Emma Seymour is a Communications and Public Relations professional specializing in storytelling, relationship building, and content development. A military spouse and former small business owner, she advocates for veterans, transitioning service members, and their spouses, and has delivered keynote speeches on workforce development, military programs, and childhood trauma.