The Washington Department of Commerce awarded Greater Spokane Inc. $250,000 from the Governor’s Economic Development Strategic Reserve Fund (SRF) to support Mercer Mass Timber LLC’s expansion in Spokane Valley. The funding aids in engineering, permitting, and installing assembly line infrastructure at the company’s secondary manufacturing space.
“These funds, paired with private investment, make Washington’s economy stronger,” Governor Ferguson said. “We are working to expand family-wage jobs and support key industries across our state, especially in rural and underserved communities.”
“This investment ensures our region remains at the forefront of advanced manufacturing and sustainable building innovation,” said Joey Gunning, director of economic development at Greater Spokane Inc. “By supporting Mercer Mass Timber, we are not only securing high-quality local jobs but also strengthening our forest products industry and construction sector supply chains. This project keeps new market opportunities anchored here in our region, creating ripple effects that benefit both rural communities and urban centers across the state.”
Mercer Mass Timber transforms locally sourced wood into engineered products that replace carbon-intensive materials in construction.
According to Mercer representative Brent Olson, the funding is instrumental for Mercer’s innovation and product diversification.
“With this support, we’ve advanced critical certification efforts, unlocked new market opportunities, and laid the foundation for next-generation manufacturing workflows,” Olson said. “These investments enhance our competitive advantage and support sustained job growth and deeper economic impact across the greater Spokane region.”
The expansion enhances Washington’s forestry, manufacturing, and sustainable building sectors, accounting for about 30% of North American mass timber manufacturing capacity. The facility benefits from access to Washington-grown timber and transportation corridors to major markets.
“Retaining this expansion in Spokane Valley adds high-wage manufacturing and engineering positions,” Nguyễn said. “It results in additional private capital investment that supports local economic development and reinforces the state’s forest sector and clean building goals.”
About the Strategic Reserve Fund
Revenue for the SRF comes from unclaimed lottery prize money. The funds are intended to attract and retain jobs and economic investment in Washington, limited to highly strategic projects that deliver significant job creation and capital investment. These projects were considered in partnership with local associate development organizations (ADOs), and they must be accompanied by private investment. The Governor determines awards based on recommendations from Commerce.
“The Strategic Reserve Fund is a key resource for boosting economic growth and keeping Washington an attractive place for businesses,” said Commerce Director Joe Nguyễn. “With these funds, we can take care of important infrastructure needs, support local businesses, and create sustainable jobs that benefit our communities across the state.”
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