First Certified Creative District in Spokane City & County Will Drive Economic Growth, Innovation, and Community Vitality in Spokane City and County
Greater Spokane Incorporated (GSI) and the Northeast Public Development Authority are celebrating a milestone for Spokane’s economy and cultural landscape: the Washington State Arts Commission has officially designated Hillyard as Spokane City and County’s first Certified Creative District.
The Hillyard Creative District is the result of a 15-month, community-driven effort led by Darya Pilram through the Economic Recovery Corps, a national initiative funded by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). Pilram’s fellowship is hosted and jointly funded by GSI and the Coeur d’Alene Economic Development Council, underscoring a cross-state commitment to growing the creative economy.
“In addition to arts and culture, the creative economy is about the authentic assets that make our region magnetic to talent and investment,” said Darya Pilram, Economic Recovery Corps (ERC) Fellow leading the Hillyard initiative. “Hillyard’s designation proves that creative communities are economic engines driving job creation and business attraction.”
This historic designation marks more than just a cultural win—it’s a strategic economic development achievement that advances the goals of THRIVE Spokane, GSI’s regional strategy for growth and equity. The Hillyard Creative District will serve as a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and cultural identity. It will boost local jobs, attract investment, and enhance Spokane’s regional competitiveness.
“The degree of community buy-in and effort throughout this process has been nothing short of remarkable,” said Jesse Bank, Executive Director of the Northeast PDA. “This catalytic work sets Hillyard up for enduring success through increased vitality, visitation, and targeted investment in those things the community has identified it wants to see – a “goldilocks” scenario from an economic development perspective.”
The designation brings direct economic and community benefits from ArtsWA, the state Arts Commission, including a $10,000 startup grant, eligibility for up to $50,000 in capital funding, and increased ability to attract public and private investment in infrastructure, creative entrepreneurship, and workforce development.
Spokane Mayor, Lisa Brown, responded to the announcement saying, “Spokane has always embraced its artists and makers, and this designation recognizes what we have known for a long time: that our creative community is a powerful force. This new creative district will not only bring economic growth, but neighborhood vitality and cultural innovation.”
The effort is already inspiring others in the community. Spokane’s Garland District is partnering with Hillyard through monthly learning exchanges as they work toward their own Creative District certification, ensuring that lessons learned in Hillyard ripple across the region.
“This regional collaboration reflects what’s possible when we align vision, resources, and leadership,” said Alisha Benson, CEO of Greater Spokane Inc. “We’re not just building a district—we’re cultivating a creative economy that connects neighborhoods, industries, and people.”
The Hillyard Creative District will be governed by a new 501(c)(3) non-profit called the Hillyard Alliance. They will partner with nearby schools and education programs such as On-Track Academy, Innovation High School, and New Tech. Initial opportunities for programming include Third Thursday Art Walks and support for cultural preservation focusing on the area’s railroad and Native history.
About Greater Spokane Inc.
Greater Spokane Incorporated (GSI) is the Spokane region’s business development organization, committed to building a vibrant, inclusive economy through bold vision, advocacy, and partnership. Serving as both the regional Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Organization, GSI works to create transformative opportunities for all businesses.
For Creative District Information: Darya Pilram, Executive Director Hillyard Creative District, Economic Recovery Corps Fellow [email protected], (415) 722-4284
About the Northeast Public Development Authority
The Northeast Public Development Authority is a public corporation created by the City and County of Spokane to oversee place-based economic development in the Hillyard area. Jesse Bank is the Executive Director and assumed this role in August 2022.
About ArtsWA
ArtsWA is the Washington State Arts Commission. It is a state agency, formed by the Washington State Legislature in 1961. ArtsWA is a catalyst for the arts, advancing the role of the arts in the lives of individuals and communities throughout the state.
