Spokane Workforce Council: Investing in BIPOC-Owned Small Businesses for Lasting Economic Impact
At the Spokane Workforce Council (SWC), we believe in fostering equitable economic opportunities for all. This year, we are proud to announce that, through our Business Investment Grant Opportunity, we awarded nearly $475,000 to 44 BIPOC-owned small businesses right here in Spokane County. This initiative, funded through the WA State Department of Commerce’s Community Reinvestment Plan, is a direct investment in the growth, resilience, and future of our community. By targeting both new and emerging and established businesses in the Black, Latine, and Native communities these targeted investments support increased economic potential.
Why This Investment Matters
The Community Reinvestment Plan is designed to uplift communities disproportionately harmed by decades of systemic inequities, including the effects of the “War on Drugs.” By channeling resources into these communities, we aim to create lasting economic benefits, support wealth-building for Black, Latine, and Native entrepreneurs, and ensure everyone has a fair shot at success.
Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, driving job creation, innovation, and community development. Yet, entrepreneurs from under-served communities often face barriers in accessing funding, resources, and support. The SWC understands the importance of breaking down these barriers and investing in those who have historically been left out of the conversation. By supporting these businesses, we are not only creating jobs and opportunities but also strengthening the economic fabric of Spokane County.
Where the Funds Are Making a Difference
The grant funding was designated for five key focus areas that help small businesses grow and thrive, including:
- Capacity Building
- Operational Expenses or Enhancements
- Hiring
- Retention
- Staff Training
These investments go beyond short-term relief—they empower entrepreneurs to build sustainable businesses, create jobs, and invest back into their communities.
A Diverse Range of Businesses
The 44 businesses funded represent a wide array of industries that make up Spokane County’s vibrant economy. From Construction and Manufacturing to Retail Trade, Professional Services, Arts and Entertainment, and more, these businesses showcase the talent, innovation, and resilience of our BIPOC business owners. This investment spans essential community services like childcare, beauty, food, and even nonprofit organizations.
Here is the full list of businesses awarded:
- 360 Detailed Cleaning Services LLC
- A Truly Reliable Cleaning Service
- Action Craft Experts
- Beauty Kulture LLC
- Bella’s Permanent Makeup Studio
- Boulevard Coffee Company
- Champion Health
- Chrysalis Gallery
- Colima Entertainment
- Continuum Office Environments LLC
- Dawn’s Braids
- DOEZWEB
- dom+bomb
- Elevation Boats
- Fantasy Kleaning
- Global Neighborhood
- Greatest Matriarchs Society
- Happily Ever Urban Apparel
- If You Could Save Just One
- II Genesis LLC
- Indigenous Eats
- Innovation Cars LLC
- Inter-Tribal Beauty LLC
- Jalisco’s
- Jasmin and Associates
- Just Imagine Child Care Center LLC
- La Pica Chica
- Larry’s Barber & Styling
- Manzanita House
- MiA – Mujeres in Action
- MV Home Repair and Landscaping
- Operation Healthy Family
- PNW Content Creator
- PRIME Construction Solutions LLC
- Primetime Enterprises
- Pure Beauty LLC
- Ray’s Firewood
- Raze Development
- River City Aerials & Film LLC
- Ropar Cleaning Services
- Spokane Eastside Reunion Association (SERA)
- Spokane Afro Vibes Entertainment
- Take Up the Cause
- WrightWay Beauty Supply
These businesses are shaping Spokane County’s economic landscape, offering products, services, and jobs that make our community stronger and more inclusive.
The Bigger Picture: Building Wealth and Opportunity
As our region’s local workforce development board, the SWC is committed to leading by reducing barriers and increasing opportunity for all communities. Initiatives like our Business Investment Grant Opportunity allow us to support entrepreneurs who drive real change—not just for their families, but for their employees, neighborhoods, and generations to come.
When we invest in small businesses, we invest in a future where equity, opportunity, and innovation are at the forefront. We are proud to stand with these business owners and help pave the way for sustainable economic success.
Looking Ahead
The Spokane Workforce Council remains dedicated to supporting small businesses and BIPOC entrepreneurs through partnerships, programs, and innovative investments like these. Together, we are building a Spokane County where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. With additional funding on the horizon, we hope to continue to deploy targeted investments in to our community to enhance opportunity for all.
