Each year, the Intentionalist Awards shine a spotlight on the small businesses and team members whose heart, hustle, and dedication make our neighborhoods stronger, more vibrant, and more connected. Presented annually since 2023, these awards recognize local businesses that go above and beyond—supporting their communities, championing inclusivity, and nurturing a sense of belonging.
Below, we honor the past winners who exemplify the spirit of intentionality in every interaction, collaboration, and act of service. Winners received a cash prize, specialized plaque, and recognition across all of Intentionalist’s platforms.
Community Over Competition
2024 Winner
Mattice Beauty Supply
Mattice Beauty Supply stands out for championing and uplifting fellow small businesses, always opening doors and building bridges within the community.
2023 Winner
Intentions Juice & Smoothie Bar
Intentions is a Black-woman-owned juice bar that goes the extra mile to promote and collaborate with other small businesses—hosting pop-ups, sharing resources, and even closing early to educate entrepreneurs.
Cross-Cultural Champion
2024 Winner
Outsider Comics
Outsider Comics is a gathering place where people from all backgrounds experience belonging and connection, fostering cross-cultural learning with every event.
2023 Winner
Bahia in Motion
Bahia in Motion brings the energy and artistry of Salvador, Brazil to Seattle, creating spaces for authentic cultural exchange through dance, capoeira, and community events.
Rookie of the Year
2024 Winner
Coffee Tab
Coffee Tab has quickly become a community favorite, introducing something truly new and meaningful to the local scene.
2023 Winner
Rough & Tumble Pub
The first sports bar in Seattle dedicated to women’s sports, Rough & Tumble fills a long-overdue need and offers a welcoming gathering place for all sports fans.
Heart of the Community
2024 Winner
A Space Inside
A Space Inside is more than a business—it’s a hub where neighbors gather, connect, and find belonging, always giving back to the community.
2023 Winner
Barakah Beauty Collective
Barakah Beauty is a sanctuary for Muslim women and the broader community, offering not just services, but friendship, safety, and inspiration.
Legacy Award
2024 Winner
Tai Tung Restaurant
Tai Tung Restaurant has shaped and nourished its community for generations, leaving an indelible mark on the local landscape.
2023 Winner
Wildrose
For decades, Wildrose has been a safe haven and gathering place for Seattle’s LGBTQ+ community. It’s a place for connection, celebration, and solidarity.
Community Leader of the Year (2023 Only)
2023 Winner
Emerald City Spinal Care
Dr. Zapata and her team have gone above and beyond—opening weekly tabs at local businesses, hosting charitable meetups, and modeling generosity since 2020.
Team Member of the Year
2024 Winners
- Pedro Cerda, Rojo’s Mexican Food
- Alan (TN) Trang, Itsumono
- Olha Starokorova, Bellden Cafe (accepted by Claire Sumadiwirya)
2023 Finalists
- Aloria Ashley, Nurture Well Center
- Casey Crowell, Marination
- Nicole LeClech, Buddha Bruddah
- Marlene Knox, Esme and Elodie
- Jaylon Nazario, Communion
Thank You to Our Sponsors and Supporters
The 2023 and 2024 Intentionalist Awards were made possible thanks to the support of BECU, Alaska Airlines, Dick’s Drive-In, Fulcrum Coffee, Safeway, Symetra, VLACK Media, the Seattle Public Library, and the Seattle Office of Economic Development, along with countless community partners, presenters, and volunteers.
Every year, we’re grateful for the opportunity to celebrate these leaders and the intentionality they bring to Seattle and beyond. Their stories and impact remind us what’s possible when community comes first.
Know a small business that deserves recognition? Stay tuned for next year’s Intentionalist Awards and help us continue to lift up the people and places at the heart of our communities.