City of Burien and Discover Burien Offer Business Support & Community Leadership

Burien is one of the region’s most welcoming and community-minded cities—known for its creative energy, diverse perspectives, and a strong sense of belonging. With a network of businesses, cultural organizations, and civic partners committed to showing up for one another, Burien reflects the kind of inclusive economy GSBA works to champion across Washington.

This month, we’re spotlighting two GSBA members who help make Burien a place where people feel invited, supported, and connected.

City of Burien

The City of Burien has spent more than three decades building a dynamic, friendly, and culturally rich community. Since incorporating in 1993, the city has embraced its 100-year history while continuing to grow into a vibrant hub where creativity, diversity, and neighborhood pride shape daily life.

Burien stands out not only for its arts and culture, but for the way it welcomes and supports local businesses. As the city shares on its business resource page:

Whether you’re visiting downtown, exploring new restaurants, connecting at community events, or partnering with local organizations, Burien’s commitment to belonging is felt everywhere.

Follow their work:
@cityofburien
 | 
@burienecondev

Discover Burien

Discover Burien plays a central role in creating the welcoming environment the city is known for. Founded in 2002 by local business owners, this nonprofit service organization has been dedicated to strengthening Burien’s economic vitality for more than 20 years.

Their mission is simple: build community. Through business education, promotion, networking opportunities, and more than 40 annual events, Discover Burien provides countless ways for residents and visitors to connect with local businesses. Today, they support more than 150 members and remain a driving force behind Burien’s strong small-business ecosystem.

Their work is grounded in the belief that a thriving local economy starts with people—business owners, workers, families, and neighbors—who feel seen and supported.

Learn more:
discoverburien.org

Burien’s Commitment to LGBTQ+ Visibility

Burien’s welcoming spirit extends well beyond its business network. Each spring, the city raises the Pride flag at City Hall, marking the beginning of Pride Month and reaffirming its commitment to LGBTQ+ visibility, safety, and community. In 2025, Burien raised the flag for the fifth consecutive year, gathering residents, leaders, and allies despite the drizzle.

Mayor Kevin Schilling emphasized the heart behind this long-standing tradition, noting that Burien is committed to supporting the community and keeping “an inclusive and loving space for all.” Councilmember Alex Andrade, a longtime member of the Burien Pride Committee, spoke candidly about the importance of visibility—even in the face of challenges such as vandalism targeting Pride flags. As she shared, these actions are meant to silence people, but instead they push the community to be “more present, more intentional, and always civil.”

This year’s theme, “Pride Out Loud,” reflected Burien’s belief that Pride is not just a moment—it’s a year-round commitment to resilience, love, and community care.

Read more:

Burien raises Pride flag for 5th year

Following Burien’s Example

Burien continues to set a powerful example of what it looks like when a city invests in belonging—lifting up local businesses, celebrating diversity, and creating spaces where everyone feels welcome. As GSBA continues our work across the region, we’re proud to partner with communities like Burien that lead with heart.

We encourage our members to follow their example: celebrate your neighbors, support local businesses, and help build a community where people feel valued, included, and connected every day.