Tom Simpson

Ignite Northwest shifts focus to serve 'not yet bankable'

Nonprofit manages two funds with a combined $4.5 million in capital

January 29, 2026

Following the sale of Ignite Northwest's Spokane Technology Center in the University District to Washington State University in September, Ignite has made a strategic decision to focus its activities exclusively on providing credit facilities to rapidly growing, emerging companies here that are “not yet bankable” and unable to secure financing from a commercial bank or credit union.

Visions 2023: Remote, hybrid jobs could be boon to Spokane

Playing field to be more level for startups here within the next decade

December 29, 2022

Tom Simpson

The Spokane region is well poised for a dramatic increase in the number of new startups and emerging companies over the next five to 10 years. My view is supported by the several work/life attributes the region offers, the shift to remote or hybrid work

Sparks Weekend promotes startup collaboration

New fund-sharing app for college meal plans wins top prize at event

May 19, 2022

Tom Simpson

Collaboration between entrepreneurs, businesses, universities, and government agencies is fundamental to creating and attracting startup companies. Prioritizing the formation of new businesses is essential to economic growth as startups account for the

Tom Simpson: Spokane has potential to become hub for startups

Focus should be on starting new businesses rather than recruiting

December 29, 2016

Tom Simpson

I passionately advocate that our region has an opportunity to become a leading entrepreneurial hub for successful startups and emerging companies akin to Boulder, Colo., and Austin, Texas. We already boast a cadre of compelling, rapidly growing new busi