Funders and Finances

Washington Department of Labor & Industries

Since January 2024, SIMBA supports small businesses as a Small Business Outreach Partner with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). We provide invaluable assistance on essential topics such as workplace safety, business licensing, wage and hour laws, and workers’ compensation. Importantly, we can help you navigate L&I’s website to get the tools you need for your new and existing business. Stay tuned for upcoming in-person and remote presentations, and take advantage of our personalized 1:1 business assistance available now. Through our partnership with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I), we offers essential assistance to business owners in key areas:

• Contractor Licensing and Requirements (Construction Trades)

• Wage & Hour Law

• Employee Payroll

• Minimum wage requirements

• Pay requirements for family members, minors

• Minor Work Permitting

• Employees v. Independent Contractors

• Workplace Safety

• Mandatory Safety Plans & Committees

• Worker’s Compensation

• L&I Quarterly Filings

We simplify navigating these critical topics, ensuring your business meets regulatory standards and operates efficiently. Count on SIMBA for expert guidance tailored to your specific needs

Small Business Resiliency Network (SBRN)

SIMBA is proud to be a partner with the Washington State Department of Commerce’s Small Business Resiliency Network (SBRN), offering culturally and linguistically relevant assistance and comprehensive business support services at no cost. Our commitment extends to entrepreneurs, small businesses, and nonprofits across Washington, with a focus on historically marginalized and underserved individuals and communities. We provide no-cost services to businesses and entrepreneurs in the following Eastern Washington Counties: Spokane, Lincoln, Pend Oreille, Stevens, Adams, Grant, Whitman, Garfield, Asotin, Walla Walla, Franklin and Benton Counties.

Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA)

SIMBA offers specialized services through partnerships facilitated by grants and contracts, including support from the Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA). Recognizing microenterprises as pivotal to Washington's economy, WSMA champions businesses that employ fewer than 5 individuals, require less than $50K in startup capital, and often lack access to traditional credit. These small enterprises constitute the majority of businesses statewide, embodying resilience and innovation.

Inatai Foundation

SIMBA is the proud recipient of a Community Power Grant from the Inatai Foundation to fund our work serving consumers and businesses in Spokane and Inland Northwest for the purpose of developing a more just and equitable economy. 

Avista Foundation

The Avista Foundation, the community investment arm of Avista Corp., provides crucial funding to nonprofit organizations serving communities across eastern Washington, northern Idaho, parts of southern Oregon, and Sanders County, Montana. It also supports citizens in the City and Borough of Juneau through Alaska Electric Light and Power Co.

In its 2024 grant cycle, the Avista Foundation awarded $122,750 in grants to 27 nonprofit organizations across Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and Alaska, supporting economic growth and community development. Spokane Independent Metro Business Alliance (SIMBA) was honored to receive these funds, helping us continue our mission of strengthening the local economy and empowering independent businesses by expanding the Live Local INW website into a standalone local and independent eCommerce platform.

One key step in this expansion is the Live Local INW Events Calendar, which provides a dedicated space for local and independent businesses to showcase their events. This feature makes it easier than ever for community members to discover and support what’s happening in Spokane and Eastern Washington, further cementing Live Local INW as a hub for local commerce and connection.