When Spokane Comedy Club opened in 2016, co-owner Adam Norwest was cautioned that it might not work. Ten years later, it's one of the most requested venues by performers and has helped grow Spokane's comedy scene.  

Thirteen years ago, Vestis Manufacturing Inc. was a five-person operation producing and installing fabric awnings for homes and businesses within 100 miles of Spokane. Today, Vestis focuses on manufacturing aluminum canopies, louvered sunshades, and bolt-on balconies for commercial clients, shipping its products throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Terrain, the nonprofit arts organization that began as a one-off event nearly two decades ago, is entering a new era of growth as it expands its staff, programs, and economic impact on Spokane’s creative community.   

Synthetic nicotine lozenge maker Nic Nac Naturals has expanded across the U.S. and in international markets since its product first hit shelves in 2023. 

Although he considers himself partially retired, Dr. Bob Lutz continues to find ways to keep caring for the well-being of the public.

"Follow the Blooms," an eight-episode series that takes viewers behind the scenes at Inland Northwest flower farms and the floral installations made from their harvests, has started streaming nationally on PBS, with a second season already in production.

Since opening in downtown Spokane in early 2022, Petunia & Loomis LLC has grown a loyal base of customers who appreciate the bizarre and unusual.

The Great PNW Inc. is on track to have its best year yet, as the Spokane-based apparel company continues to focus on improving company culture, expanding proven product lines, and increasing marketing reach, says owner Joel Barbour.

The University District has spent the last several years laying the groundwork for the next phase of development to transform the district into a regional hub for innovation, workforce development, and entrepreneurship.

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.