The Port of Seattle Commission this week approved $1.9 million in grants to support economic development projects in King County cities, with South King County communities among the key beneficiaries.
The matching grant program provides cities with funding – ranging from $10,000 to $60,000 – based on a per capita formula, with a requirement for participating cities to provide at least a 50% match.
The funds support business development, tourism, shop local initiatives, and projects related to Port-aligned industries such as aviation, maritime, and green jobs.
“A core part of the Port of Seattle’s mission is to support our local and regional economy,” said Port Commissioner Sam Cho, who represents South King County. “These matching grants are essential for cities across the county to work on economic development projects that are of benefit to their residents, but also to the work that we do at the Port of Seattle.”
In 2024, the program provided more than $804,000 to 27 cities, including several in South King County. When combined with local matches, more than $1.44 million was invested into community-focused economic initiatives.
The extension is a continuation of support for local cities that the Port began in 2016.
Tukwila, Enumclaw Will Benefit
In Tukwila, the funding helped support small East African retailers through a creative collaboration with the Somali Independent Business Alliance (SIBA). The partnership hosted a fashion show aimed at promoting culturally appropriate clothing and boosting small business visibility.
“Tukwila’s goal was to help our small businesses improve their marketing and attract visitors to the city,” said Derek Speck, the city’s Economic Development Administrator. “As an added benefit, the event was very successful for building connections across cultures.”
In Enumclaw, the Port’s grant funding helped bolster tourism efforts and drive foot traffic to local events.
For the 2025–2026 cycle, the Port’s funding will focus on projects that align with key industries including aviation, maritime, construction trades, and green jobs.
More information about the program can be found at portseattle.org.
