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The GSBA Impact Awards - 2026

Thursday, February 26, 2026 (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM) (PST)

Description

Celebrate Community at the

GSBA Impact Awards

Every year, GSBA honors businesses, non-profits, and community leaders who are shaping a stronger, more inclusive economy across Washington State. The GSBA Impact Awards celebrate those who lead with intention, demonstrate excellence in their work, and invest time and resources into the communities they serve.

From small and micro-businesses to community leaders and non-profit organizations, this event recognizes the people and organizations creating meaningful impact through leadership, advocacy, and connection. The Impact Awards are a celebration of visibility, community, and the collective work it takes to move our region forward.

Event Details

📅 Date: Thursday, Feb 26
📍 Location: Town Hall Seattle
⏰ Pink Carpet & Reception: 5:00 PM
🏆 Awards Ceremony: 6:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: $69

What to Expect

Starting at 5:00 PM, mix and mingle at the reception with complimentary wine, champagne, and light bites (additional drinks available for purchase). Then get ready to celebrate as award recipients are announced live during the ceremony beginning at 6:00 PM.

Celebrating the People Doing the Work

The Impact Awards spotlight leaders and organizations building belonging in real, practical ways—through the way they lead teams, serve customers, show up for neighbors, and invest in community. Recognition builds visibility, visibility builds momentum, and momentum helps strengthen an inclusive economy across our region.

Vote in the Impact Awards

Voting is open to the public. Cast your ballot, share with friends, and help recognize this year’s award recipients!

Meet the Nominees

We’re proud to introduce this year’s GSBA Impact Awards nominees—an outstanding group recognized for inclusive leadership and meaningful community impact.

Capitol Hill Business of the Year
⭐ A/Stir
⭐ Bonito Cafe y Mercadito
⭐ Capitale Pizza
⭐ Stoup Brewery

Community Leader of the Year
⭐ Dena Levine - DML Insurance
⭐ Hedda McLendon - FIFA LOC
⭐ Mac Scotty McGregor - Positive Masculinity
⭐ Paul Hart - Key Bank

Nonprofit of the Year
⭐ Cheer Seattle
⭐ KCSARC
⭐ Lifelong
⭐ Seattle Opera

Rising Entrepreneur of the Year
⭐ Her Glow Candy Shop
⭐ Hey Pearl
⭐ Matt Baume
⭐ Sparked by Pride

Small Business of the Year
⭐ Kokos Restaurant and Tequila Bar
⭐ Michi M Suzuki PR
⭐ Rough & Tumble Pub
⭐ Untraditional Fruits

Special Recognition Award
⭐ Kevin Spratt

Cast Your Vote

VOTING CLOSES FEB 13!

Your Hosts

Trae Holiday

Emmy-winning Trae Holiday talks to the biggest names in community, government, and pop culture weekdays at 11am on The Day with Trae. Known by many as “Seattle’s Oprah,” Trae brings warmth, curiosity, and street-level insight to conversations with elected officials, community leaders, creatives, and cultural icons across the Pacific Northwest.

Besa Gordon

Besa Gordon is the vibrant host of Back2Besa on FOX 13 Seattle and nationwide on FOX Soul and the FOX Local App, produced by Converge Media. With an energetic, relatable style rooted in her Central District upbringing, Besa spotlights local restaurants, changemakers, and community voices while uplifting the Black community across the Pacific Northwest.

We could not maintain and continue a program as extensive as this one without the generous support of our sponsors.

Presenting Partner