Next IT, a global leader in the development of virtual assistant solutions for customer experience and business performance optimization, recently announced their plans to move to a new building in Spokane Valley’s Pinecroft Business Park. The new facility will provide additional space that will enable more interaction, both formally and informally, as the company continues to innovate and grow. Next IT’s client list includes Aetna, Alaska Airlines, Charter Communications, Merrill Lynch, TAM Airlines and the U.S. Army.
In fall of 2014, Jamie M. Traeger, of JMA Commercial Real Estate, LLC and Pinecroft Business Park contacted GSI to inquire about the availability of Washington tax incentives that could be utilized to defray construction costs on a proposed building at the business park. The client, Next IT, was exploring opportunities to create an environment that would enhance creativity and enable future growth and expansion.
GSI Industry Managers Stan Key and Gary Mallon met with Pinecroft and Next IT to identify and discuss state programs that could help reduce construction costs. One of the incentives discussed was the state’s High Technology Sales & Use Tax Deferral/Waiver, which was created to assist businesses conducting research and development and pilot scale manufacturing in advanced computing, advanced materials, biotechnology, electronic device and environmental technology. This incentive would enable Pinecroft and Next IT to eliminate a percentage of the sales and use tax on construction and equipment purchases.
The Department of Revenue approved a sales and use tax deferral of 21% on the construction cost, which was passed on to Next IT in a reduction of overall lease costs.
“Next IT easily met the criteria for the incentive program,” said Gary Mallon of GSI. “And the Department of Revenue did a great job of getting the application processed and approved.”
The new space will feature a variety of work areas, including individual offices, paneled systems,, huddle spaces, conference rooms, various seating on its two floors and an open center-space with bleacher seating for impromptu or company meetings.
“Next IT is an extremely innovative, locally-grown technology company,” said Steve Stevens, GSI President and CEO. “This is a win for Next IT, Pinecroft and the greater-Spokane community.”
2014