Izzie Wayuono has transformed a viral food trend into a growing Spokane business with the opening of Izzie's K-Dogs in April.

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. 

The 2026 Spokane Pride Parade & Festival drew tens of thousands of visitors to downtown Spokane and Riverfront Park this past weekend, creating a significant economic impact as attendees supported local hotels, restaurants, retailers and other businesses throughout the weekend.

Soulful Soups & Sandwiches and Boulevard Coffee Co. LLC are now operating new locations at the Wonder Building, the historic bakery-turned-office building at 835 N. Post, on Spokane’s North Bank.

Eight years ago, when the Journal last caught up with Denielle Waltermire-Stuhlmiller, owner of Simply Northwest gift shop, sloths, unicorns, mermaids, and llamas reigned in popularity. While current tastes have shifted to cherries, chickens, book-lover merchandise, and bees, the Spokane Valley-based retailer maintains a proactive approach to stay ahead of the curve.

Spokane-based meal preparation company Real Meals, a scratch made meal delivery and pickup service, has doubled its workforce and expanded partnerships with gyms and senior living facilities as demand for convenient, prepared meals continues to grow.

After years of organizing events, supporting Native artists, and operating a nonprofit focused on Indigenous communities, Spokane Tribe member Jeff Ferguson has opened a new brick-and-mortar business designed to give Native artists a permanent place to showcase and sell their work.

Integrated Lipid Biofuels LLC, a biotech and sustainability company based in Spokane Valley, has developed and launched its first consumer product and is preparing a Kickstarter campaign to support its initial market rollout.

A new dry-aged beef program at the Chinook Steak, Seafood & Pasta restaurant in the Couer d'Alene Casino Resort Hotel is driving both flavor innovation and increased sales, according to executive chef Alex Santos-Cucalon.

A new gathering place in downtown Spokane aims to offer more than just an average cup of coffee. Instead, Good Medicine Apothecary & Culture Lounge is meant for cultural exchange, conversation, and a curated listening experience.