Spokane, WA – June 9, 2025 – Greater Spokane Inc. (GSI) is proud to announce that BECU’s Office of Philanthropy has awarded a $30,000 grant to GSI in support of the Spokane Inclusive Business Catalyst (SIBC), a transformative business accelerator for underserved entrepreneurs in Spokane County.
With this generous investment, SIBC will expand from two to three business cohorts in 2025, providing critical education, mentorship, and access to capital to micro and underserved entrepreneurs in the Spokane region.
“This funding from BECU is more than a financial contribution—it’s a direct investment in the future of inclusive economic growth in our region,” said Joey Gunning, GSI Strategic Growth Manager. “Through SIBC, we are equipping underrepresented business owners with the tools to succeed, scale, and contribute to a more equitable and thriving Spokane economy.”
Spokane Inclusive Business Catalyst: Proven Results
Since launching in 2023, the SIBC program has graduated 32 entrepreneurs and awarded $160,000 in matching grants. Participants receive tailored training, mentorship, and resources to grow their businesses—with graduates experiencing an average revenue increase of 57%.
One participant, Devika Gates, President & CEO of Ancillary Analytical Services LLC, shared:
“Since graduating from the SIBC program, we were able to buy supplies to open a new service for our clients. The knowledge and resources we received through the program were invaluable.”
A Community-Based, Scalable Model
Each SIBC cohort is designed in partnership with local organizations to ensure community-rooted support and real-world relevance. With BECU’s support, GSI will launch a third 2025 cohort to serve even more entrepreneurs in Spokane County.
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—from startups to major employers—through its four strategic cornerstones: convening around critical issues, strengthening workforce infrastructure, supporting small and underserved businesses, and cultivating the innovation economy. Learn more at GreaterSpokane.org.
About BECU
BECU is one of the nation’s largest community credit unions, dedicated to improving the financial well-being of its members and communities. Through its Office of Philanthropy, BECU invests in programs that promote financial health, entrepreneurship, and economic equity.
