Washington Minority Business Coalition Launches to Unite and Empower Diverse Business Communities Across Washington State

Seattle, WA — [Tuesday, May 27, 2025] — In a bold and necessary step toward economic equity, five of Washington’s most active minority-focused chambers of commerce have come together to form the Washington Minority Business Coalition (WMBC). This newly launched coalition aims to amplify the collective voice of minority-owned small businesses and drive inclusive economic development throughout the region.

The founding chamber members of WMBC include GSBA, Washington’s LGBTQ+ and allied chamber of commerce; the Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce; the Seattle Latino Chamber of Commerce; the Korean American Chamber of Commerce of Washington State; and the Filipino Community of Seattle.

Each organization brings a legacy of advocacy, community engagement, and culturally competent support for underserved business communities. Together, they will leverage their collective strength to ensure that small and micro businesses—particularly those owned by Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), LGBTQ+, immigrant, and other historically excluded entrepreneurs—have access to the resources, training, and opportunities they need to thrive.

“We’re looking toward the future,” said Ilona Lohrey, President & CEO of GSBA. “As resources and funding for minority-led businesses become harder to find, we’re strengthening connections to uplift our communities together. This coalition is about unity, strategy, and creating a future where our businesses are not just surviving—but succeeding.”

“We’ve seen time and again how federal, state, county, and city resources are distributed in ways that leave our business communities behind—whether it’s access to government contracts or grant funding,” says Marcos Wanless, President and Founder of the Seattle & Tacoma Latino Chambers of Commerce. “Latina women are the fastest-growing group of business owners in America, yet they remain among the lowest-paid in the workforce. We’re committed to advocating for meaningful change here in Washington State.”

Minority-owned businesses play a critical role in Washington’s economic and cultural landscape, yet they continue to face systemic barriers when it comes to capital access, government and corporate contracting opportunities, and sustained business growth. WMBC seeks to change that. By working collaboratively, the coalition will advocate with one united voice for equitable investment and policy change, connect businesses to procurement pipelines and contract readiness programs, and provide accessible, bilingual assistance tailored to meet business owners where they are.

Additionally, WMBC aims to demystify the certification process for small businesses seeking access to public-sector contracts and supplier diversity programs. By providing step-by-step support and eliminating bureaucratic hurdles, the coalition is committed to making sure every eligible business has a clear path to certification and inclusion.

For updates and partnership inquiries, interested businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies are encouraged to reach out through any of the coalition’s partner organizations.

About the Washington Minority Business Coalition (WMBC)
The Washington Minority Business Coalition is a collaborative effort of chambers of commerce dedicated to the economic empowerment of minority-owned businesses across Washington State. By working together, WMBC champions equity, entrepreneurship, and shared success for diverse communities.