LoveOly Business Connect: Business Education & Retention Forum

The Olympia Downtown Alliance has announced a special edition of the LoveOly Business Connect series: the Business Education & Retention Forum, scheduled for Monday, June 8, 2026. This high-impact event is free to attend and aims to bring together downtown business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and community partners to share resources, address local challenges, and bridge gaps in access and awareness that support economic growth.

Downtown Olympia is at its best when it is connected through mutual support, shared investment, and a commitment to retaining and attracting businesses that strengthen our local economy. Whether navigating an established storefront or just beginning to explore an entrepreneurial path, attendees will find tools to help their businesses succeed.

“Our downtown community is the heart of Olympia and deserves continuous, collaborative support to keep it thriving,” said Desiree Freeland, Executive Director of the Olympia Downtown Alliance. “This forum, developed by our Economic Vitality Committee, provides our diverse business owners with direct access to critical resources, while supporting business retention and fostering sustainable business recruitment.”

The forum offers both a morning and an afternoon session for convenience. Each session features fast-paced, 20-minute educational micro-sessions designed to deliver actionable insights. Additionally, participants will have 40 minutes of intentional networking time to connect directly with topic-focused vendors and community partners.

While this June 8th forum is an expanded special-edition event, the Alliance continues to support the business community year-round through its regular LoveOly Business Connect networking series, which takes place every second Wednesday of the month from 5:15 PM to 6:30 PM.

Education & Retention Forum Details:

• What: LoveOly Business Connect: Business Education & Retention Forum
• When: Monday, June 8, 2026 (Morning and Afternoon sessions available)
• Where: 501 Capitol Way South, Olympia, WA 98501
• Cost: FREE to attend

Advanced registration is highly encouraged. Attendees can secure their spot by visiting tinyurl.com/educationretention to RSVP.