CougsFirst! expands for March 10 event in Seattle

EVERETT, Wash. – Responding to a growing list of businesses that want to showcase their products and services, CougsFirst! is moving its fourth annual show and after party to the Washington State Convention Center in downtown Seattle.

This year CougsFirst! is expecting the largest turnout ever, with sold-out exhibition space and at a new venue. More than 120 businesses and organizations from around the state will be showcasing a wide variety of merchandise and services, with many of the exhibitors offering prize drawings and special discounts during the event.

The free-to-attend networking event — a volunteer initiative started by six alumni of Washington State University – is scheduled for Thursday, March 10, 2016 with the showcase scheduled from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m., followed by an after party. Organizers expect a sellout of 120 Cougar-owned or managed exhibitors.

CougsFirst!, described by some as a party with a purpose, is a business network encouraging Washington State University alumni and friends to think CougsFirst! for products and services.

Event co-founder Glenn Osterhout, who chairs the board that presents the event, said most exhibitors from the 2015 show plan to return, and they’ll be joined by many new exhibitors. The one-stop collection of businesses, all owned or managed by WSU alumni, showcases a wide assortment of products and services ranging from apparel, architects and attorneys to home improvement services, manufacturers and wineries.

Several Washington State University divisions are also participating, including Carson College of Business, Career Services, and WSU at North Puget Sound at Everett.

Exhibitors include a mix of returning businesses, as well as a number of companies that are new to the show. Among this year’s first-time exhibitors are Strideline Socks, Wilcox Farms and William Church Winery.

Shoppers will find everything from automobiles, apparel and apples to tax and other professional services, vacation destinations and wineries. All the companies are owned or managed by alumni of WSU.

Learn more at CougsFirst.org and in the video below.