Idaho Central Credit Union has quietly become one of Spokane’s fastest-growing financial institutions. Just 3 1/2 years after opening its first branch in Spokane County, the Chubbuck, Idaho-based financial institution has expanded to six locations, including downtown Spokane, North Spokane, Spokane Valley, Airway Heights, Liberty Lake, and the South Hill.

As some credit unions continue to grow through mergers, acquisitions, and the opening of additional branches, smaller credit unions in Spokane are working to stay competitive and prove that expansion isn't the only path to success.

Third-quarter earnings reports released by some banks with a Spokane presence mostly show upward trends in net income due partially to raised federal interest rates and steady demand for commercial and industrial loans in the Inland Northwest.

Spokane-based Washington Trust Bank has begun a tenant improvement project that includes a new branch and an upgraded lobby at its Washington Trust Bank Tower East building, formerly the Wells Fargo Center, at 601 W. First in downtown Spokane.

Greg Hansen, the chief credit officer at Numerica Credit Union, has retired after nearly 16 years at the Spokane Valley-based financial institution.

Spokane-based fintech company Treasury4 Inc. has acquired TreasuryGo Inc., a Seattle-based company that offers a cloud-based software-as-a-service application that simplifies complex treasury workflows and data management.

Sonja Jensen has been motivated professionally by her desire to help people, serve customers, and contribute to the community. 

Kumiko Love, founder of The Budget Mom LLC, a financial education and lifestyle brand, has expanded her focus to include two newer business ventures: Pine Manor Naturals, a soap and skincare company, and Pine Manor, a semi-private farm stand.

Washington Trust Bank has purchased a six-story building in downtown Tacoma, not far from where it plans to open a separate branch this fall, marking the financial institution's entry into the South Sound.