It’s already past Memorial Day, halfway through 2023. I hope you had a chance to be at the last General Membership meeting on the 21st. We shared our “stats” through the year. So far, up to May 7, we have had 2,762 visitors to the HUB, and it looks like we will pass the number of visitors we had in 2022.

Our technical assistance program has been a success with 582.75 hours of one-on-one technical assistance provided to firms from January throughApril of this year. In 2022, we had a total of 314.75 total one-on-one hours spent with small businesses needing assistance. These sessions cover a range of topics from bookkeeping to bonding and legal help, in addition to more than 40 other categories. Our goal is to continue growing this effort, but more importantly, we want to grow minority businesses so that our community can access the billions of dollars we pay in taxes and be competitive in the private sector.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention a major dark cloud on the horizon with a US Supreme Court ruling by the end of June. Tabor 100 is following this case that could ban affirmative action anywhere, anytime. Our state and local governments work diligently to provide opportunities to minority businesses. The Supreme Court ruling can have a far-reaching impact on contracting efforts and be interpreted as a total ban on affirmative action, forever. This would put a damper on efforts launched by our government partners and pull millions of dollars in federal funds this state receives annually requiring contracting
with minority and women-owned firms. The final ruling is expected by this summer, and we will keep you up-to-date.

Last, but not least, I’d like to talk about the Tabor 100 Gala happening Saturday, September 30 at the new Seattle Convention Center. It is a memorable time, with business and government leaders attending, including a great representation from Tabor’s membership. It is our biggest fundraiser of the year, and, without it, our advocacy for your business cannot continue. I urge you to volunteer to make the Gala an even bigger success and, if you can give, please give generously. Our survival and our ability to thrive in what is not the friendliest environment for minority businesses, depends on your support. Call me or any Board member anytime. We will answer and put you to work – it is one of the most rewarding things you can do for your business and your community!