Business Madness 2026: Tacoma’s Ultimate Business Bracket &Networking Event

March Madness returns to Tacoma—business style.

Business Madness 2026 is Tacoma Rising’s high-energy, community-powered event celebrating the businesses that make our city thrive. Inspired by the excitement of NCAA March Madness, we’ve replaced basketball teams with 64 South Sound businesses, all competing for recognition, bragging rights, and the title of Business Madness Champion.

And the best part?
The community decides who wins.

After weeks of online voting, we’ll bring everyone together for a live celebration where the Final Four businesses are announced and attendees cast the final, in-person vote to crown Tacoma’s champion.

👉

Before the competition tips off, guests will enjoy a special preview of Wooden City's new business location, offering an inside look at one of Tacoma’s most beloved local brands expanding downtown.

This event is equal parts:

• Business celebration
• Community connection
• Friendly competition
• Classic Tacoma Rising networking

Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, creative, developer, or simply someone who loves Tacoma—you belong here.

Event Schedule

10:30 AM – 11:15 AM Exclusive Property Tour of Wooden City
Get a sneak peek of Wooden City's newest location and meet the team behind the buildout.

11:30 AM – 12:00 PM Final Four Announcement
We reveal the top business from each category.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Live Championship Voting, Lunch, Raffles, and Games
Attendees vote in real time to determine the 2026 Business Madness Champion while connecting with others, enjoying lunch, and some friendly competition with our Pop-A-Shot, cornhole and raffles!

After the Vote
Stick around for food, drinks, games, raffles, and networking with Tacoma’s movers, shakers, and rising leaders.

What to Expect

• Live Final Four reveal & championship vote
• Food & drinks throughout the event
• Games including pop-a-shot, shuffleboard, and more
• Raffles and giveaways
• Event photography
• Meaningful networking across industries

Why Attend?

Business Madness is about spotlighting local success, supporting our business community, and having fun while doing it.

Come vote. Come connect. Come be part of Tacoma Rising.

Photo & Video Release:

By purchasing tickets and attending this event, you acknowledge and agree that Tacoma Rising LLC and UrbanWork LLC may take photographs and videos during the event. These images and recordings may be used for marketing materials, websites, social media, and other business-related purposes at their discretion. By purchasing a ticket, I grant permission to be photographed and filmed during the event, and I release any rights to the photos and videos taken. Thank you for your cooperation and participation!

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Lisa Le