In 1926 Bertha Knight Landes became the first female mayor of a major American city, serving as the mayor of Seattle. Ever since, the city has continuously embraced the contributions of women, empowering them to shape the city’s culture along the way. Today, the city is once again led by another strong female — Mayor Jenny Durkan — furthering the city’s environment of inclusion.
In Seattle, Women Mean Business
An American Express “State of Women-Owned Businesses” report estimated the economic impact of women-owned companies throughout the state of Washington at over $30 billion in 2017. Seattle itself has the highest share of women-owned businesses in the country with 40 percent of businesses being female-owned. That’s more than 118,000 women-owned businesses. The city has also been ranked the second-best city for women entrepreneurs.
Beyond just numbers, many of these female-led brands define the rich and diverse texture of the city from local favorites including Seattle Chocolates, Cupcake Royale to nationally recognized brands including DRY Soda and Sub Pop Records.
Women’s Impact Beyond the Boardroom
Outside of traditional business boardrooms, Seattle’s community and culture are shaped by the contributions of females. Seattle is home to three-time WNBA Champions the Seattle Storm (also owned by an all-female leadership group). James Beard nominees including Rachel Yang, Renee Erickson and Zoi Antonitsas continue to define the city’s culinary scene. Female city councilmembers outnumber their male counterparts two to one. Cultural organizations including the Pacific Northwest Ballet, Seattle Art Museum, the Pike Place Market Foundation and FareStart all are helmed by women. And of course, Seattle is also the proud home of Melinda Gates, who Forbes recognized as the third-most powerful woman on the planet.
It Takes a Village
As a community, Seattle is a city that thrives on collaboration and many of the female entrepreneurs in the city would tell you that sense of community has been key to helping them thrive. From groups like Lady Bosses or Women Business Owners, women actively look for opportunities to help others succeed here. It’s one of many reasons The Riveter, an inclusive co-working space designed by women was born and thrives here.
Whether you’re planning an all-female meeting, have a strong attendee base of women, or just want to underscore the impact of women in your industry, Seattle creates a powerful backdrop for your meeting. Learn more about how the city can serve as a place for education and inspiration at visitseattle.org/meetings.
