SIBC Cohort 5 Wraps in Partnership with Vested
Greater Spokane Inc.’s Spokane Inclusive Business Catalyst (SIBC) just wrapped its fifth cohort with a meaningful collaboration to support local women-owned businesses and bolster the economy in our region.
The SIBC is a five-week business accelerator created to serve historically underrepresented entrepreneurs. The program equips participants with hands-on training in marketing, financial management, operations, and leadership. The most recent cohort brought together a powerhouse group of women entrepreneurs from across Spokane, each running unique and inspiring businesses. Participants included:
Ashley Brownlee, Garland Resale
Ashley Cone, Electric Photoland
Cynthia + Mindy Bach, Teas Company
Danielle Amstrup, Pleasantries
Hannah Talbot - Anam Cara Healing Center
Julia Lara, French Toast, Whiz Kids, & Paper Nerd
Kodie Hartin, Rebel Hart Co
Lodi Jackson, The Ridge at Greenbluff
Mori Salquist, Simply Clean Spokane
Supporting women business owners isn’t just a feel-good mission, it’s a critical economic issue. Despite owning nearly 40% of businesses in the U.S., women receive less than 2% of all venture capital funding annually. Even outside of venture-backed circles, female founders consistently report greater difficulty accessing bank loans, credit lines, and investment capital compared to their male counterparts. These barriers don’t reflect a lack of capability, they reflect systemic gaps in access and opportunity.
That’s why community-centered programs like the SIBC matter. They not only build skills, but also open doors to funding, to networks, and to long-term sustainability. This cohort helped participants clarify their business strategies, strengthen their financial foundations, and, perhaps most importantly, feel seen and supported.
The partnership between GSI and Vested is rooted in a shared mission: to help our community grow thriving, sustainable businesses in Spokane. This cohort reflected what’s possible when intentional support is combined with inclusive leadership. This incredible program would not have been possible without the support of funding partners Umpqua Bank, the Northwest Business Development Association, and BECU.
Vested is proud to have helped facilitate this experience and looks forward to continuing the work of building a more connected and powerful business community, one woman-owned business at a time.