Economic Growth Together
The 2025 GSBA Economic Development Conference brought together business leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and community advocates for a day of learning and connection.
A Day of Ideas, Insights, and Impact
On May 22, 2025, GSBA hosted its second annual Economic Development Conference at Amazon’s Arizona Building in Seattle. From the opening breakfast to the closing connections, the day brought together business leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and community advocates to explore how Washington can prepare for historic opportunities on the horizon — including the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
Attendees gained firsthand insights from keynote speaker Anthony Shop, Washington Attorney General Nick Brown, and Visit Seattle’s Michael Woody, as well as from the Seattle FIFA planning team. Sessions explored strategies for leveraging global events, strengthening digital communications, advancing inclusive business practices, and preparing small and diverse businesses for long-term growth.
With networking opportunities, interactive workshops, and a return of the LGBTBE Pitch Competition, this year’s conference showcased the innovation, resilience, and leadership of the GSBA business community.
Voices That shaped the day
Keynote with Anthony Shop, Social Driver
Keynote speaker Anthony Shop inspired attendees with strategies on how leaders can break through the noise in the digital age. Drawing on lessons from his Chief Influencer podcast, he highlighted five essential behaviors of impactful leaders: start in the center, embrace the gray, share the stage, learn the lingo, and go for growth. Attendees walked away with actionable tools to build confidence and communicate authentically. www.socialdriver.com
Washington’s Economic Future with Attorney General Nick Brown
Washington’s Attorney General Nick Brown shared his vision for an equitable economy built on protecting civil rights, expanding opportunity, and supporting diverse entrepreneurs. His remarks emphasized the critical role that small and minority-owned businesses play in driving growth and innovation across the state. www.atg.wa.gov/about-nick-brown
Economic Outlook with Michael Woody, Visit Seattle
Visit Seattle’s Michael Woody, Senior VP & Chief Strategy Officer, offered an insider’s look at how global events and regional growth are shaping Washington’s future. From hospitality to tourism to strategic partnerships, Woody underscored how collaboration across sectors can create sustainable opportunities for businesses. www.visitseattle.com
Seattle and the FIFA World Cup 2026™
Hedda McLendon from SeattleFWC26 shared how the world’s biggest sporting event is set to reshape Seattle’s economy. Attendees heard about new initiatives like the Unity Loop, augmented reality fan experiences, and opportunities for local small businesses to get “FIFA Ready” for the global stage.
The Return of the LGBTBE Pitch Competition
Back by popular demand, the LGBTBE Pitch Competition gave diverse entrepreneurs a platform to showcase their innovations. Participants pitched live to a panel of judges and received feedback designed to sharpen their strategies while competing for a coveted spot at the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce conference.
Congratulations to this year’s winners: Bonito Cafe y Mercaditio and Friends of the Gym!
The GSBA team poses with speakers and pitch winners at the 2025 EDC
Thank You!
This year’s Economic Development Conference was made possible by the generous support of our sponsors and community partners.
Title Partner: Wells Fargo
Supporting Partner: T-Mobile
Venue Partner: Amazon
Catered Lunch: Madres Kitchen
We are deeply grateful to these partners for their investment in an economy that works for everyone.
A look at 2024's Conference
