In December, the Northwest Mountain Minority Supplier Development Council (NWMMSDC), in partnership with the Port of Seattle, proudly celebrated the graduation of the 2025 Port of Seattle Business Accelerator Program. Launched in September as a highly competitive initiative, the program concluded with a cohort of businesses that are more prepared, more connected, and better positioned to pursue public-sector opportunities.
Following a rigorous selection process, 13 businesses were chosen from nearly 100 applicants. Each entered the program with a shared goal: to strengthen their readiness to do business with the Port of Seattle and compete effectively in complex public contracting environments.
Program Structure & Learning Focus
Throughout the accelerator, cohort members engaged in executive-level courses, targeted workshops, and direct engagement with Port staff, mentors, and subject-matter experts. Core focus areas included financial management, marketing and sales, accounting systems, bonding and insurance readiness, procurement processes, risk management, and strategic business development.
Participants also gained direct insight into Port procurement practices and upcoming opportunities. These sessions provided clarity on public-sector expectations and helped businesses align internal systems, staffing, and growth strategies with real procurement pathways.
Building Connection & Capacity
A defining strength of the accelerator was connection. The program created intentional space for businesses to build relationships with Port leadership, instructors, and peers. Through facilitated discussions and shared learning experiences, cohort members exchanged perspectives, addressed common challenges, and strengthened trust across the group.
These relationships extended beyond the classroom, creating a support network that will continue to benefit participants as they pursue Port opportunities and broader public-sector work.
How the Cohort Benefited
By the conclusion of the program, participants demonstrated measurable growth and immediate application of new tools and strategies, including:
- Strengthened financial, accounting, bonding, and insurance readiness
- Refined marketing, sales, and growth strategies to support scaling
- Increased understanding of Port of Seattle procurement and public contracting
- Built strong peer, mentor, and Port staff relationships
- Applied tools immediately to improve operations and profitability.
Graduation & Reflection
The graduation in December marked both a milestone and a transition. It recognized the commitment and progress of each participant while signaling the next phase of growth for their businesses. Cohort members left with increased confidence navigating public-sector environments and a clearer understanding of how to engage with the Port of Seattle as a partner.
Acknowledging Leadership & Partners
The success of the 2025 Port of Seattle Business Accelerator Program would not have been possible without the leadership, collaboration, and dedication of Port of Seattle executives, partners, mentors, and instructors.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the Port of Seattle leadership team:
- Mian Rice, Diversity in Contracting Director
- Emily Ho, Community Engagement and Training Program Manager
- Lisa Tran, Diversity in Contracting WMBE Advisor
- John Wellons, Aviation Chief Development Officer
- Neepaporn “A” Boungjaktha, Managing Director, Economic Development
- Kelvin Dankwa, Community Engagement Professional and Project-Program Coordinator
- Janice Zahn, Chief Engineer
- Sofia Mayo, Director, Central Procurement Office
- Jeff Hollingsworth, Director, Risk Management
We also thank our program partner, Mike Nakamura Photography, Santa Fe Street Consulting and Trio Group, for strategic guidance and continued support. Deep appreciation is extended to the mentors and instructors whose expertise and practical instruction ensured participants received actionable, Port-aligned insights throughout the program.
Looking Ahead
At its core, the Port of Seattle Business Accelerator Program reflects a shared commitment to expanding opportunity for minority-, women-owned, and small businesses while strengthening the regional economy. As we look ahead to 2026, NWMMSDC and the Port of Seattle remain focused on supporting program graduates and welcoming future cohorts ready to grow, compete, and lead.
Congratulations to the 2025 cohort on your graduation and continued success.