As of June 30, 2027, Washington state law will prohibit noncompetition covenants in most employment and independent contractor relationships.

Probate work is rapidly increasing at some Spokane-area estate planning law firms as attorneys begin to see the effects of the nation’s historic transfer of wealth from baby boomers to their heirs.

Driven by a silver tsunami of retiring baby boomers, Spokane-based Stewardship Concepts Financial Services LLC has seen its assets under management surge from $78 million in 2024 to $200 million in April 2026, says Noah Schwab, co-owner and certified financial planner at Stewardship Concepts.

Even as higher vehicle prices, insurance premiums, and borrowing costs continue to squeeze household budgets, Spokane-area lenders say auto loan activity is picking up this year as customers refinance existing loans, stretch payment terms, and hunt for more affordable vehicles. 

Exporting from the Spokane area is an activity we don’t hear much about these days. One of the reasons lies in the demise of the International Trade Alliance, which for years promoted local businesses to go global. Another reason is that not much has changed in exports over the past 10 years, at least for Spokane.

A surge in artificial intelligence investment is reshaping the venture capital landscape, driving record valuations and deal sizes while creating new challenges for startups that aren't centered on AI technology.

Since January, the Inland Northwest has seen several business acquisitions, suggesting that merger and acquisition activity may be on the rise.

Refinancing activity in the Spokane market is expected to remain low but steady, as ongoing market uncertainty and global events keep interest rates elevated, according to some industry experts here.