Colbert-based Omniscia AI is a finalist for the Inland Northwest Business of the Year Awards, in the small-business category. 

Ability Employment Services has been named the winner of the Small Business of the Year category in the Journal's 2026 Inland Northwest Business of the Year Awards.

Maddie's Place has been named the winner of the Nonprofit of the Year category in the Journal's 2026 Inland Northwest Business of the Year Awards.

Spokane organizations are preparing to potentially host a national soccer team and large public fan events tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, offering businesses the opportunity to benefit from one of the world’s largest sporting events despite the absence of tournament matches in the city.

Spokane’s visitor economy heads into 2026 with solid momentum, renewed confidence, and expanding opportunities that continue to benefit residents, workers, and businesses.

A cultural redevelopment project is planned at Riverfront Park's Snxw Meneɂ (sin-HOO-men-huh) Island, where the Spokane Tribe of Indians is partnering with the city of Spokane for the renovation of event areas, art and sculptures, and other features designed to highlight the sacred connection between the island and the Spokane Tribe.

As artificial intelligence quietly becomes an everyday tool across industries, Spokane Falls Community College is moving toward educating students on how to work alongside it in their future careers. 

Salt Lake City-based Inherent Biosciences Inc., a health care diagnostic startup, is growing its presence in the Spokane area since first expanding here in 2024 through $1.25 million in grants from Health Sciences & Services Authority of Spokane County.