The SDF was founded in 1998 by Becky Galentine, with help from Anne Manzer and Joe Sullivan. The SDF was Becky's way to give back to the debate community and to re-vitalize policy debate in the Seattle area. Becky served as Executive Director of the organization until her passing in May 1999.
The flagship program of the SDF is the Seattle Urban Debate League. Formed in 2000, the Seattle UDL is a partnership program between the Seattle Public Schools, the Alliance for Education, and the Seattle Debate Foundation. The Seattle Debate Foundation is also a partner of the Associated Leaders of Urban Debate.