W E E K L Y N E W S L E T T E R
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A Message from our President...
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After six weeks on the ground in Spokane, I’ve been both inspired and energized by the commitment of this city’s business community. The challenges we’re facing—public safety, economic instability, and the health of our downtown—are real, but so is the collective will to tackle them head-on. What’s impressed me most is the sense of shared responsibility and deep pride people have for Spokane. It’s clear that folks here aren’t waiting around for change—they’re building it. In these first few weeks, I’ve spent a lot of time listening—walking the streets, meeting with business owners, and hearing directly from the people doing the work every day. What I’ve seen is resilience, creativity, and a desire to collaborate. That’s the kind of foundation any city needs to move forward.
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As the organization representing businesses of all sizes and sectors across Spokane, the SBA is committed to ensuring our collective voices are heard and to championing the needs of our members in support of Spokane’s business community.
With nearly 20 years of experience in business leadership, I know progress doesn’t happen overnight. But I also know it begins with people who care, who show up, and who are willing to do the hard work. That’s what I’ve found here in Spokane. I’m proud to be part of this moment, and I’m committed to helping guide our association—and this city—toward meaningful, lasting impact.
Your partner in business,
Brad
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If you live, work, or just love the East Central neighborhood, why not plug in and power up your impact?
Join the East Spokane Business Association (ESBA) member meetings — a lively, noontime gathering every 4th Wednesday of the month
As a dynamic focus council of the Spokane Business Association, ESBA’s mission has always been bold and unapologetic: to preserve, elevate, and champion the unique character, businesses, and infrastructure that make East Central shine.
Your voice matters. Your energy matters. Your presence matters.
Come sit at the table — let’s shape the future together.
Sprague Union Terrace | 1420 E Sprague Ave | enter in the back | Noon - 1 PM
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Up Next: ESBA Guest Speaker | Wednesday, May 28, 2025
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Judge Gloria Ochoa-Bruck has built a distinguished career rooted in perseverance, justice, and service to the Spokane community. As a first-generation college graduate, she overcame early challenges to rise through the legal ranks and was elected in 2021 to serve as a municipal court judge for the City of Spokane. In this role, she brings a thoughtful and compassionate approach to justice, striving for outcomes that serve both the individual and the broader community.
Her dedication extends well beyond the bench. Judge Ochoa-Bruck has played active roles on several influential boards, including the Providence Health Systems Mission Board and the Empire Health Foundation, and has contributed her expertise as a trustee for the Washington State Bar Foundation. She also shares her knowledge with future legal professionals as an adjunct professor at Gonzaga University School of Law and Whitworth University. Her career reflects a deep belief in the transformative power of education, community involvement, and equitable justice.
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The Spokane Business Association, in collaboration with the City’s Department of Community and Economic Development, has partnered with some of Spokane’s most innovative and forward-thinking businesses to streamline the permitting process and support the city’s construction momentum. From affordable housing developments to luxury high-rises, Spokane’s skyline is rising—and the future is looking up.
Interested in shaping Spokane’s future from the ground up?
Join the Contractors & Developers Focus Council and be part of the conversation driving real change. Whether you’re building affordable housing or commercial high-rises, your voice matters. Help us create smarter policy, faster processes, and a stronger foundation for Spokane’s growth.
Come build with us.
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Reducing vehicle lanes to make room for bike paths, expanded sidewalks, or transit options may sound appealing in theory, but it comes with significant tradeoffs—especially in communities that depend on car travel and lack sufficient alternative infrastructure.
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Learn how this issue may impact you or your business? We want to talk! Please plan to contribute to this impactful conversation with SBA's newest focus council coming in June.
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Gabriel's Challenge | Sunday, May 11 - Sunday, June 15, 2025
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Gabriel’s Challenge is a grassroots effort born out of Spokane’s urgent fight against the fentanyl crisis. Named in memory of 24-year-old Gabriel Fensler, who lost his life to a fentanyl overdose, the initiative calls on the community to come together in his honor and take action to prevent further tragedy.
Spanning 36 days—from Mother’s Day to Father’s Day—the challenge invites residents to take part in small, intentional acts that foster connection and awareness. Participants are encouraged to “Adopt a Block” by walking their neighborhoods and building relationships with those around them, and to join local mapping sessions aimed at identifying service gaps in Spokane’s addiction and recovery network.
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The heart of Gabriel’s Challenge lies in the belief that when people show up, engage with their neighbors, and work together, they can spark real and lasting change. It’s a movement rooted in love, loss, and the unwavering hope of building a safer, more connected Spokane.
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Curious to learn more? Text “SHOW UP” to 53123 for daily action challenges—and join the community mapping sessions every Tuesday night, throughout the challenge, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM at City Hall.
Tonight’s featured voice: Sheriff John Nowels. Don’t miss it!
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Hello for Good Spring Symposium | Friday, May 16, 2025
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Join Hello for Good for an engaging and informative dialogue with Judge Steven Leifman, a pioneering force in reforming how the criminal justice system addresses mental illness. His groundbreaking work in Florida led to dramatic reductions in recidivism, and Spokane is honored to welcome him as he shares his insights and proven strategies.
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Spokane BizFair 2025 | Thursday, May 15, 2025
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May 15, 2025
12:00 - 5:00 PM
As Washington State’s premier event for small business support, BizFair has long been a hub for entrepreneurs in Puyallup—and now it’s headed east this May.
Join us for a day of free, expert-led workshops designed to sharpen your business skills, connect with valuable local resources, and engage directly with representatives from state and federal agencies including the Department of Labor & Industries, Secretary of State, Department of Revenue, SBDC, and more. Whether you're launching, growing, or looking for support, this no-cost event is built to empower your journey.
Spokane Community College | 3410 West Whistalks Way
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Lunch Breaks that Mean Business | Coming Soon!
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New SBA Lunch & Learn Series Coming This Summer!
Hungry for knowledge? Grab your brown bag and join us for a bite-sized brainstorm! Each month, the SBA will serve up fresh topics and expert voices to fuel your mind and spark real conversations.
Bring Your Own Lunch, Leave with Insight 🍎 🧃 🛍️
Details Coming Soon!
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The Ties That Build Spokane
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The Spokane Business Association is proud to be woven into the fabric of this city. As we near our first anniversary, we’re deeply honored to stand alongside the remarkable organizations, leaders, and advocates who are shaping Spokane’s future. It’s a privilege to collaborate with such a dedicated and dynamic community—one that continues to inspire action, innovation, and resilience every day.
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YOUR VOICE. YOUR IMPACT. YOUR MEMBERSHIP.
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Downtown Spokane is at a crossroads. Business owners are confronting the impacts of addiction, homelessness, and public safety challenges every single day. These aren’t abstract policy debates—they’re lived realities. But change doesn’t come from waiting. It comes from stepping in.
The Spokane Business Association exists because a group of business leaders chose to stop accepting the status quo. We walk the streets before sunrise. We talk directly with policymakers. We advocate for solutions rooted in both accountability and compassion. This work is not easy, but it is necessary—and it’s powered by the people who refuse to give up on Spokane.
If you care about building a safer, stronger, more equitable city, then your voice belongs here. Not because we have all the answers, but because together, we’re asking the right questions—and demanding better. This is how change starts. Join us.
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Tell Us What’s on Your Mind—We’re Listening
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We want to hear from you! Your insights, questions, and feedback help shape the direction of our work and ensure we're addressing the issues that matter most to our community. Whether you have an idea, a concern, or just something on your mind—don’t keep it to yourself. Drop us a line and be part of the conversation. Your voice truly makes a difference.
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SBA THANKS OUR VALUABLE SPONSORS
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If you believe in what we're building and want to see Spokane thrive, don’t keep it to yourself—share this with your neighbors, colleagues, and friends. The more voices we have, the stronger our impact.
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