In a turn of events that has raised concerns within the local business community, the Washington State Minority Business Development Agency Business Center located in Tacoma will be shuttering its doors. Mayor Victoria Woodards expressed her dismay over the closure, emphasizing the center’s role in bolstering the local economy. “I am deeply troubled by the closure of the Washington State Minority Business Development Agency Business Center located in Tacoma, a valued federal resource for minority-owned businesses serving Washington state,” she said in a statement obtained by the City of Tacoma.
The closure was announced following a ‘Notice of Grant Termination’ from the United States Department of Commerce received by Tacoma’s Community & Economic Development Department on April 29, 2025. The sudden decision to terminate the grant quickly resulted in a scramble to understand the broader implications for local entrepreneurs and the state economy. According to Mayor Woodards, “This closure was a direct result of ongoing uncertainty around future funding and program support at the federal level.”
Mayor Woodards went on to criticize the decision as shortsighted, asserting the importance of such centers in laying the groundwork for economic empowerment among minority businesses. “Undermining such efforts weakens this foundation, and is both shortsighted and unacceptable,” she said, echoing a sentiment that is likely to resonate with those who depend on such resources to nurture their ventures.
Despite this setback, the City of Tacoma is not stepping down from its commitment to inclusive growth. Mayor Woodards made it clear that the city will endeavor to offer support through its own Community and Economic Development Department. “Tacoma will continue to support inclusive economic growth for Tacoma’s entrepreneurs,” she stated, maintaining her stance on fostering a nurturing environment for local business owners.
While the federal partnership is currently on pause, Mayor Woodards remains optimistic about moving forward. She mentioned that Tacoma is ready to reignite the collaboration with the federal government to support minority business development across Washington state, should the funding and support be reinstated. “We will continue to monitor federal executive orders and contract requirements closely,” said Mayor Woodards, keeping an eye out for any signs of change that would allow the city to recommence working with the federal agency.
