“At JPMorgan Chase, we believe in strengthening small business and creating jobs. We believe that is critical to the progress of our country. And we’re thrilled to partner with the UW Business and Economic Development Center who is working to do just that.” - Curt Fraser, CEO, Middle Market Banking for the Pacific Northwest at JPMorgan Chase
Business and Economic Development Center

Since 1995, the Business and Economic Development Center at the University of Washington Michael G. Foster School of Business has engaged students in learning experiences that bolster the competitiveness of hundreds of minority-owned, women-owned and other small businesses. A win for students. A win for the economy. The results? More than $85 million in new revenue generated and more than 6,000 jobs created and retained across Washington state.

The bottom line: Diversity matters
Diversity is more important than ever in today's economy. There is a growing minority population and an explosion in women-owned and minority-owned businesses. The center prepares students and businesses for an increasingly diverse workplace.

Leading the way in diversity research
The center founded and hosts the National Diversity in Business Research Conference, publishes the nation's only state-wide minority business survey and funds innovative faculty research in minority and women business leadership.

Learn more about the Business and Economic Development Center: Download our 2-page overview, brochure, and 1-page volunteer opportunities announcement.


The Spokane Advanced Series Business Certificate Program expands upon the first series of the Business Certificate Program, and provides business owners the opportunity to delve deeper into marketing, accounting, organizational behavior, and sales tactics. Classes start June 3.
The 2013 Minority Business of the Year Awards will be held on December 5 this year, and nominations are now open! Please use our online survey to nominate an outstanding minority business. Nominations are due by August 1. Click here for Spanish version of the online survey.
Visit our new Business School Resources page to access resources the BEDC has designed to aid other business schools in the development of programs that improve student learning and enhance performance of small businesses in underserved communities.


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