2024 Impact Report
A Legacy of Leadership, A Future of Opportunity
For more than a century, businesses like yours have been the backbone of Spokane’s success. Many of our partners have been invested for generations, helping to build a thriving, resilient community. Spokane has grown with you and because of you.
At Greater Spokane Inc., we are more than an organization; we are a network of leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers. Businesses of all sizes come together here to strengthen our economy, advocate for our region, and create new opportunities for the future.
Your investment isn’t just about today—it’s about shaping the Spokane region where businesses grow, talent thrives, and industries innovate. Together, we are tackling the challenges that matter most—from workforce development and infrastructure to economic policy and entrepreneurship.
You are part of something greater. GSI is here to champion your success, connect you with the right opportunities, and ensure Spokane remains a place where businesses and people flourish.
Thank you for your partnership, leadership, and commitment to our region. We are proud to stand with you in shaping our future.
Sincerely,
Alisha Benson CEO, Greater Spokane Inc.
PARTNER INDUSTRIES
businesses with 20-49 years of partnership 79 businesses committed for 50+ years of partnership
Why Committees Matter
GSI’s governance committees bring together leaders across industries, sectors, and areas of expertise to be your voice around opportunities and challenges. These volunteer leaders help shape strategies, foster collaboration, and provide critical insights that guide GSI’s work.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Champions efforts to attract, retain, and expand businesses across the Spokane region’s core industries with a focus on using data and metrics for future planning and decision-making.
PARTNERSHIP ENGAGEMENT & GROWTH COMMITTEE
Focuses on keeping our partner relationships strong, creating strategies for engagement, retention, and growth to ensure businesses see real value in their GSI investment.
REGIONAL ADVOCACY COMMITTEE
Drives GSI’s advocacy agenda, shaping public policy priorities to support business growth, workforce development, infrastructure, and community prosperity at the local, state, and federal levels.
REGIONAL VISIONARIES COMMITTEE
Our top investors come together in this leadership forum to provide strategic insight to GSI leadership and focus on the region’s biggest opportunities and challenges.
EDUCATION & TALENT ALLIANCE COMMITTEE
Brings business and education leaders together to align education programs with real workforce needs, ensuring students are career-ready and employers have the talent they need.
FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
Provides strategic oversight of GSI’s financial health and offers guidance on best practices for operational excellence. The committee also advises on initiatives that enhance long-term sustainability and strengthen investor confidence.
Board & Councilmembers: The Power of Collective Leadership
2025 EXECUTIVE BOARD
CHAIR
Charlotte Nemec, Canopy Credit Union
CHAIR-ELECT
Dale Silha, McKinstry
IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR
Stacey Cowles, Cowles Company /
The Spokesman Review
GENERAL COUNSEL
Bill Symmes, Williams Kastner
TREASURER
Dan Demchuk, Moss Adams
CEO
Alisha Benson, Greater Spokane Inc.
Carla Cicero, Numerica Credit Union
David Condon, Premera Blue Cross
Stephanie Curran, Spokane Public Facilities District
Otto Klein, Spokane Indians Baseball
Alex Jackson, MultiCare
Eva Marquette, FreshVue
Trent Maier, Trailbreaker Cider
Chris McFaul, Horizon Hospice
Paul Read, Journal of Business
Rob Roettger, Northeast Education Service District 101
Brooke Baker Spink, Baker Construction & Development, Inc.
Christine Varela, DH
LEADERSHIP ADVISORY COUNCIL
Jay Allert, Allert Cattle Ranch***
Brooke Baker Spink, Baker Construction & Development, Inc.**
Lance Beck, Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce***
Catherine Brazil, University of Washington
Dr. Kevin Brockbank, Spokane Colleges
Jasen Bronec, Inland Power
Mayor Lisa Brown, City of Spokane***
Nadine Burgess, Spokane Gymnastics
Emilie Cameron, Downtown Spokane Partnership***
Carla Cicero, Numerica Credit Union*
Colonel Chad Cisewski, Fairchild Air Force Base***
David Condon, Premera Blue Cross*
Stacey Cowles, Cowles Company / The Spokesman Review
Stephanie Curran, Public Facilities District**
Shannon Demant, College Success Foundation
Dan Demchuk, Moss Adams*
Cami Eakins, Career Path Services
Kyle England, Kaiser Aluminum
Bobby Enslow, Indaba Coffee
Mayor Pam Haley, City of Spokane Valley***
Phil Haugen, Northern Quest Resort & Casino
Gordon Hester, Kiemle Hagood
Manny Hochheimer, ICCU
TJ Houk, Wilbert Precast
Alex Jackson, MultiCare Health System**
Mayor Cris Kaminskas, City of Liberty Lake***
Otto Klein, Spokane Indians Baseball*
Justin Kobluk, Westcoast Entertainment
Marvo Reguindin, AHANA
Jennifer Koenig, Robert Half Talent Solutions
Commissioner Mary Kuney, Spokane County
Trent Maier, Trailbreaker Cider**
Eva Marquette, FreshVue
Dr. Thayne McCulloh, Gonzaga University
Chris McFaul, Horizon Hospice*
Dr. Scott McQuilkin, Whitworth University
Marcelo Morales, A4Ventures
Charlotte Nemec, Canopy Credit Union
Rose Noble, Visit Spokane***
Shelly O’Quinn, Innovia Foundation
Chris Patrick, Inland Imaging, LLC
Brian Read, STCU
Paul Read, Journal of Business**
Cliff Rigsby, Rosauers
Rob Roettger, ESD 101**
Heather Rosentrater, Avista
Michael Senske, Pearson Packaging Systems
Dale Silha, McKinstry
Nicole Sohn, Journey Discovery Center, Inc.
Susan Stacey, Providence Health Care
Dr. Adam Swinyard, Spokane Public Schools
Bill Symmes, Williams Kastner
Tim Thomas, Bouten Construction
Steve Utt, Washington Trust Bank
Jim Van Loben Sels, Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park
Christine Varela, DH*
Dr. Francisco Velazquez, Spokane Regional Health District
Mike Wilson, Riverbank
*SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIR
**SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIR-ELECT
***EX-OFFICIOS
Leadership Circle Partners
REGIONAL VISIONARIES
COMMUNITY LEADERS
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
AgWest Farm Credit
Banner Bank
Baker Construction & Development, Inc.
Bouten Construction Company
Canopy Credit Union
Central Pre-Mix Concrete Co. a CRH Co.
Chase Bank
DAA Northwest
Delta Air Lines
DH
Ray Sprinkle, President & CEO, URM Stores, Inc.
Eastern Washington University
Gesa Credit Union
Gonzaga University
Inland Power
Kaiser Aluminum
Lukins & Annis PS
Lydig Construction
McKinstry Company
NAC Architecture
Providence Health Plan
“URM has been part of GSI for years because we know strong businesses don’t succeed in isolation — they succeed when the whole region is healthy and growing. Whether it’s advocating for smart policies, helping small businesses thrive, or leading initiatives like Believe Spokane, GSI is constantly working to ensure this is a place where companies like ours — and the independent grocers we serve — can succeed long-term.”
“At Numerica, we invest in GSI because a thriving local economy benefits everyone — businesses, families, and our community. GSI plays a unique role in bringing people together across industries to tackle challenges, spark innovation, and drive growth. We are proud to collaborate with GSI to strengthen the Spokane Region for future generations.”
Robert Half Talent Solutions
Rosauers Supermarkets
Spokane Colleges
Spokane Public Schools
University of Washington
Wagstaff
Washington State University
Health Sciences Spokane
Westcoast Entertainment
Whitworth University
“WestCoast Entertainment has a long history in Spokane, and we invest in GSI because they understand that Spokane’s identity — its culture, economy, and future — depends on all of us working together. From supporting the creative economy to making sure Spokane’s business climate stays competitive, GSI brings energy, leadership, and a collaborative voice to the table. When GSI succeeds, Spokane succeeds — and that’s something we’re proud to stand behind.”
Carla Cicero, President & CEO, Numerica Credit Union
Justin Kobluk, President, WestCoast Entertainment
Building the Future,Together
At GSI, building Spokane’s future takes bold leadership, collaboration, and a focus on what matters most to our businesses, workforce, and community.
Our work centers around Four Cornerstones — critical focus areas where GSI convenes, leads, and drives action. With our partners, we’ll elevate these priorities, engage decision-makers, and ensure Spokane’s voice is heard. This isn’t just a plan — it’s our shared commitment to the future.
Convening
Around Our Region’s Critical Issues
Understanding the needs, hopes, and concerns of our community is essential for driving meaningful change. That’s why GSI brings diverse voices to the table — businesses, educators, elected leaders, and community non-profits — to ensure decisions reflect the realities and desires of those who live and work here.
2024 Highlights
THE PULSE
GSI launched this data-driven polling initiative to capture Spokane voters’ real opinions on the economy, workforce, and quality of life — providing actionable insights to guide policy and business decisions.
OLYMPIA & D.C. FLY-INS
We led 100+ leaders to our state and federal capitals to directly advocate for Spokane’s priorities, including housing, childcare, transportation, and workforce development.
PUBLIC HEALTH & SAFETY COALITION
GSI partnered with the Empire Health Foundation, Downtown Spokane Partnership, Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce, and local leaders to chart a path forward on regional solutions for mental health, substance abuse, and detention.
DEFENDING CRITICAL TRANSPORTATION PROGRESS
GSI successfully opposed legislative efforts to delay the contracting process for vital transportation projects, including the North Spokane Corridor.
Because strong communities are built when every voice is heard.
2025 Spotlights
EXPANDING THE PULSE
We’ll gather even more data in 2025, tracking community sentiment on public safety, housing, and economic growth to ensure Spokane’s voice shapes our future.
DRIVING LEGISLATIVE ACTION: FOCUS OF OUR LEGISLATIVE AGENDA
A Improving business climate
A Expanding attainable housing for our workforce
A Advancing critical transportation projects
A Supporting licensure reform to meet workforce needs
Strengthening Workforce Infrastructure
Because a strong economy starts with a strong workforce.
Spokane’s future depends on growing and keeping talent right here at home. That means exposing students to career pathways early, expanding workforce housing, and improving access to affordable childcare — all essential to supporting workers and the businesses that rely on them.
2024 Highlights
EMPOWERING STUDENTS THROUGH CAREER EXPLORATION
290 students gained hands-on career experience through Business AfterSchool and internship programs.
CHILDCARE AS AN ECONOMIC PRIORITY
GSI partnered with Inland Northwest Early Learning Alliance (INWELA) and Priority Spokane to map resources and launched the Childcare Champion Awards to celebrate those strengthening our region’s childcare system.
HOUSING ADVOCACY
We made housing front and center in Olympia, partnering with Spokane Association of Realtors and Spokane Home Builders Association to push for solutions to condo liability issues, zoning laws, and environmental review.
"As a business leader, I need a strong local workforce — and that starts long before someone applies for a job. Being part of GSI’s Education & Talent Alliance lets me sit down with K-12 superintendents, higher-education, and other businesses to talk about what’s really happening in our schools and workplaces. We’re figuring out solutions together and GSI makes that possible."
2025 Spotlights
IN SCHOOLS
A new five-year partnership aligning businesses and school districts to highlight how strong schools fuel a strong economy — building trust, relationships, and investment in education.
STATE OF HOUSING EVENT
A new annual convening to bring experts, leaders, and community voices together to tackle Spokane’s housing challenges head-on.
Chris McFaul Chair, GSI Education & Talent Alliance, CEO, Horizon Hospice
Supporting Small & Underserved Businesses
Because every business deserves a chance to thrive.
Small and underserved businesses are the heartbeat of our economy, and GSI is committed to providing the tools, advocacy, and connections they need to grow — especially in the face of mounting challenges like retail theft and limited access to capital.
2024 Highlights
COMBATING RETAIL THEFT
Convened businesses to meet with the Attorney General (AG) and served on the Washington Organized Retail Crime Task Force, working alongside law enforcement and retailers to expand the AG’s retail theft division and advocate for grants to support local jurisdictions.
STRENGTHENING GROWTH
Celebrated 23 graduates of the Spokane Inclusive Business Catalyst (SIBC) program, awarding $115,000 in grants to help these businesses scale and thrive. Through the APEX Accelerator, GSI also helped local businesses secure over $5.2 million in government contracts, connecting them to valuable procurement opportunities.
“Being part of GSI has helped our business grow by providing valuable networking opportunities, fostering meaningful connections, and opening doors to new collaborations. It has allowed us to engage with the community in ways that go beyond our daily operations, strengthening relationships and creating new opportunities for growth and impact.”
2025 Spotlights
SIBC EXPANSION
Hosting two new cohorts and distributing an additional $100,000 in grant funding, with a goal of helping participants increase revenue year over year.
OPENING DOORS TO GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS
Through a new partnership with the Washington Department of Enterprise Services, we’ll help 700 small, women, minority, and veteran-owned businesses— giving them direct access to compete for state contracts.
PROTECTING BUSINESS CLIMATE
Working within coalitions to protect Washington’s business climate, GSI fights against over-regulation and tax increases that threaten small businesses.
Jeremiah Shakespeare Division Manager, Swinerton, GSI partners since 2020
Cultivating the Innovation Economy
Because innovation is the engine of tomorrow’s economy.
Spokane’s future depends on being a place where creativity and innovation thrive — where we attract investment, foster new industries, and create high-quality jobs in sectors like life sciences, clean tech, and advanced manufacturing.
“GSI has given us the opportunity to connect with other local businesses and support economic growth in our region. We’ve built valuable relationships and collaborated with other businesses as members.”
2024 Highlights
CREATIVE DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT
With the support of our Economic Recovery Corps Fellow helped position the Hillyard Creative District for official certification in 2025 — making it Spokane County’s first.
ADVANCED MANUFACTURING GROWTH
In partnership with the Advanced Aerospace Manufacturing and Materials Center (AAMMC), GSI and the Coeur d’Alene Economic Development Council collaborated to support workforce development efforts and secure grant funding for equipment, training, and innovation.
2025 Spotlights
CREATIVE DISTRICT CERTIFICATION
Supporting Hillyard through its final certification process — and using it as a model for future creative district growth across the region.
INNOVATION CLUSTER COLLABORATION
Continuing to drive growth in our regional Energy, Life & Health Sciences, and Advanced Manufacturing hubs by developing talent, expanding infrastructure, and connecting companies with local and regional suppliers.
Kristin Goff President, Wendle Motors, GSI partners since 1957
Making an Impact
792 member partner businesses
38 ribbon cuttings hosted in 2024
Entrepreneur & Small Business Support
400+ entrepreneurs and small businesses supported through APEX, SIBC, and JumpStart
125 new partners joined GSI in 2024
Government Contracting Assistance (APEX)
$5,239,620 in government contract awards for Spokane businesses
250 businesses assisted through 1,087 counseling sessions and 462 total counseling hours
3,000+
students participated in 25+ career exploration events
StartUp Spokane & JumpStart Events
146 entrepreneurs and small business owners supported
50+
GSI led events with over 12.6K attendees
5,000+
attendees hosted at the AgShow
65 leaders traveled to Olympia for the 2024 Olympia Fly-In
$500K+ state appropriation secured for regional transportation and economic development projects Public Policy & Advocacy
90% of voters believe a vibrant downtown is essential to Spokane’s future (The Pulse Survey)
