Mount Rainier Business Alliance Board of Directors

• President: Kerry Whittaker
• Vice President: Sunny Thompson
• Treasurer: Bob Chirium
• Secretary: Nickolas Neville

Mount Rainier Business Alliance Purpose

The purpose of Mount Rainier Business Alliance (MRBA) is to support the Ashford, Elbe, Alder, and Mineral business communities with an organization that:

• Is responsive to the needs of the businesses, community, and visitors to the local area
• Helps to create a positive business community environment
• Is supportive of new and growing businesses
• Maintains a vision for economic growth
• Is service-oriented within the community
• Provides a viable business leadership role
• Acts as a liaison between governmental agencies, other businesses, and the community
• Become more proactive at creating a stable year-round economic climate, thus minimizing dependency on Mt. Rainier National Park as the only tourist destination

Accomplishments

**1. Successful Grant for Mt. Bike/Multi-use Trail Feasibility Study:**

As announced at the membership meeting last fall, we have received a 2024 $100,000 grant from Pierce County to complete a Mt. Bike/multi-use (non-motorized) trail project feasibility study. After reviewing multiple proposals through an RFP process, Beckwith Consulting was selected to carry out this grant. If successful, we’re gearing up to apply for a substantial grant for asset development funds to begin building the trail system in 2025.

**2. Marketing Grant Application: **

We are keeping our fingers crossed as we await news on a $40,000 marketing grant application. This is a strategic move to position our area as a four-season destination, reducing reliance on the national park’s fluctuations.

**3. Committees in Action:**

Three key committees have been formed to ensure a holistic approach to our community’s development: Grants and Trail Project, Social Media and Marketing, and Community Outreach and Events.

**4. Social Media Boost:**

Relaunching our social media platforms has seen a remarkable 2,000% increase in reach over the past month, shining a spotlight on our member businesses. Members are invited to submit any special offers or events and photos to be posted.

**5. Community Advocacy:**

Joining forces with Nisqually Valley leaders, including Eatonville’s mayor and Pierce County Councilwoman, to advocate for community projects, economic revitalization, and ensuring access to the National Park.

**6. Spring Events:**

MRBA has supported two new events this spring: Rainier’s Adventure Race and Fields and Fins. We hope these events will bring visitors to our area during the shoulder seasons to support local businesses and lodging partners.