An association for all Independent
Auto Dealers in Washington State
Get the help you need to understand auto dealer license requirements, state and federal regulations, and day-to-day business operations.
Focused on being the preferred
industry association
Every independent auto dealer faces unique challenges, from navigating complex regulations to staying ahead in a competitive market. Since 2013, IDEA has grown to serve nearly 800 active members across Washington State. As your trusted industry association, we're dedicated to supporting your growth and success within our industry.
Davelle Barnhart
Led by experienced industry
professionals
Our Managing Director, Davelle Barnhart, brings over 20 years of experience with responsibilities in managing Buy Here/Pay Here programs, bank financing, title transfers, and overseeing industry compliance with our state and federal regulations. IDEA is also supported by an advisory group of knowledgeable industry professionals. We truly are an association of independent dealers for independent dealers!
Our Mission
We're in this together.
Our mission centers around three pillars of responsibility in serving Washington State’s independent auto dealers.
1
Support
2
Education
3
Representation
We are committed to working collaboratively with our members, advisors, industry leaders, and state agencies to develop and share new ideas, introduce new methodologies, and implement successful policies that will help drive our industry forward.
Commitment to Professional Standards
We believe a strong and respected dealer community is based on professionalism, transparency, and integrity. Clear communication, fair dealing, and compliance with state and federal requirements are key to building customer trust and sustaining a successful dealership.
We provide the tools, education, and guidance to help dealers meet these standards every day, protecting both their business and the customers they serve.
Our Values
We promise to build an industry where all members are treated fairly and have equal opportunities for success. IDEA welcomes, respects, supports, and values the unique perspectives, ideas, and experiences of every member, and we pledge to uphold these standards.
We welcome the many diverse ideas, perspectives, and values that each member brings to our association, which are fundamental to our mission. A diverse set of perspectives will help generate creative ideas that will serve as the foundation for solving complex problems within our industry. A diverse set of ideas will fuel innovation and propel our industry forward.
