The Liberty Project is a new innovative business growth project that is working to increase revenues for businesses owned by underrepresented communities in Seattle – particularly Black-owned businesses. Launched in 2023, this program provides services that range from business development to marketing services and more. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. The program serves businesses in six priority industries: retail, restaurant, personal services, commercial construction, food and beverage manufacturing, and power utilities contract industries. Selected businesses will participate in the program for one year and will then be part of an alumni network offering ongoing technical assistance and support for continued business and revenue growth.

To qualify for the program, businesses must operate in one of the six prioritized industries, have a minimum of three paid employees, including the business owner, provide financial statements showing profitability in the preceding two years, and demonstrate a track record of successful revenue growth in financial statements. 

Named after the legacy of the Liberty Bank, the first Black-owned bank in the Pacific Northwest that served individuals and businesses who were excluded from financial services and investment opportunities, the goal is to grow Black and African American-owned businesses to earn 7.9% of business revenues in Seattle—which will match the 7.9% of Seattle’s population who are Black and African American. Currently, Black-owned businesses earn less than 1% of total business revenues statewide. 

While the project’s initial focus will be on Black-owned businesses that meet the listed criteria, applications from businesses owned by other demographic groups, industries, size or earned revenue will also be considered. Grow your business and apply today.