Chelan-Douglas Regional Port Authority's Trades District recognized for innovation in economic development

OLYMPIA — The Chelan-Douglas Regional Port Authority received recognition for its innovative Trades District Project at the 2025 Washington Economic Development Association (WEDA) Awards held in Olympia on March 26.

The project, which features 12 incubator spaces ranging from 1,584 to 2,175 square feet, was honored with one of two Innovation in Economic Development awards presented at WEDA's Winter/Spring Conference.

According to WEDA officials, the Trades District represents a pioneering approach to economic development, reimagining how communities cultivate business growth and entrepreneurship by focusing on trade-based, retail and service businesses rather than pursuing large-scale business recruitment.

"The Trades District is more than just a collection of buildings—it's a launching pad for entrepreneurs, a catalyst for local business growth and a long-term investment in the economic vitality of our region," said Brooke Lammert, Economic Development Specialist at the Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority. "We are honored to receive this recognition from WEDA and proud to support small businesses with the space, resources and partnerships they need to succeed."

The project's success stems largely from its collaborative approach, partnering with organizations including the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and the Hispanic Business Council. These partnerships ensure entrepreneurs from historically underserved communities receive mentorship, resources and guidance needed to navigate the challenges of business ownership.

WEDA, Washington's only trade association focused exclusively on economic development, presents its awards annually to recognize outstanding achievements in the field. This year, the organization's Awards Committee noted they received a record number of nominations from communities across the state.

"WEDA's Economic Development Awards celebrate outstanding achievement in economic development at the highest level," said WEDA Board Chair Betty Capestany, who also serves as the Director of Economic Development for Pierce County. "There are leaders across our entire state working tirelessly to grow jobs and strengthen economic vitality in their communities. These awards honor leaders and projects that are excelling in this impactful work."

Amanda Wallner, WEDA Awards Committee Chair and Economic Development Manager for the City of Richland, added, "We received a record number of impressive nominations from communities across Washington. The nominations reflect a unique array of the breadth and diversity of important work taking place by economic developers statewide. These projects are often complex and require extensive collaboration and creative partnerships."

The Trades District Project was one of two recipients of the Innovation in Economic Development Award, sharing the honor with the Clallam Forest Product Innovation Program from the Clallam County Economic Development Council.

The awards ceremony recognized achievements across multiple categories, including business recruitment, business retention/expansion, diversity and inclusion, and economic response and recovery efforts.