Upcoming Events
Upcoming SIMBA Events
What’s Your Next Funding Move? Strategies for Success
Workshop Summary: Feeling the weight of needing more resources for your small business or nonprofit? It's understandable. Knowing where to begin (or continue) your funding search can feel like a hurdle.
Join the Spokane Independent Metro Business Alliance (SIMBA) team for a thoughtful 60-minute workshop designed to bring clarity and direction to your funding efforts. We'll gently guide you through key insights and practical recommendations to help you thoughtfully explore and approach funding opportunities, introductions to helpful professional contacts who can offer guidance and support, and a collection of useful resources to assist your organization in planning for the future.
This session is designed to provide you with a solid foundation and the initial steps needed to move forward with greater assurance and creativity.
Facilitator: Robin Haynes, Executive Director - SIMBA
There is no fee to attend this workshop, but registrations are requested. Interested stakeholders from any of the four districts are invited to either event! Hosted by the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation and funded by the City of Spokane ARPA Neighborhood Business District Grant, these workshops are meant for business and district support and enhancement.
About the Spokane Independent Metro Business Alliance: SIMBA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit creating an environment for local, independently-owned businesses in Spokane and Eastern Washington to thrive through organizing, education, direct support, and advocacy. To discover more about the ongoing resources SIMBA offers, please visit the SIMBA website at your convenience.
A special thanks to StartUp Spokane for their collaboration on this workshop!
Questions? Contact Josh Cleveland, Neighborhoods Liaison at the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation, at josh@preservewa.org.
Helmer Noel and Special Guest Hannah Jackson
Helmer Noel - a wandering nomad turned Spokanite. Helmer's path to becoming a Spokane musician has been a short one, but it has been filled with high notes. From winning a chance to perform for NPR's Tiny Desk Concert Series at the iconic KEXP Gathering Space, to winning 2024's Spokane's Got Talent and performing for PBS KSPS Inland Sessions, Helmer Noel proves that music is now a permanent facet in his life. 2025 has proven to be a year of creation and inspiration. His bandmates include powerhouses like Logan McDonald, a local legend within the music scene, who has worked with standout acts such as TrueHoods and Rosie Cerquone. Austin Mitzel - a new presence on the Spokane music scene that sets a high bar for what it takes to be a pianist. Haydn Halsted, a music degree-holding chameleon, plays everything from Jazz to Gamelan. Together, they are taking on the creation of Helmer's highly anticipated album.
Join them and special guest Hannah Jackson on 7/11/2025 at The Hamilton
Studio for a night of reimagined music and a very special sneak peek into Helmer's upcoming album.
SIMBA Board Meeting
Join us for the upcoming SIMBA Board Meeting, exclusively for SIMBA members.
Location: TBD
Navigate the Future with Clarity: Creating or Refreshing Your Business Plan
Workshop Summary: You already know a solid business plan is crucial for success, but tackling it – whether you're just starting out or have years under your belt – can feel daunting.
That's where the Spokane Independent Metro Business Alliance (SIMBA) comes in! Join the SIMBA team for an engaging 60-minute workshop where we'll demystify the process of creating or updating your business plan. We'll dive into what needs to be included, how to approach it strategically, when it's the right time to refine, and most importantly, why a dynamic business plan is your roadmap to thriving.
Walk away with key resources to streamline your planning process, valuable professional connections to support your journey, and actionable recommendations to confidently move forward with your business plan.
Facilitator: Robin Haynes, Executive Director – SIMBA
There is no fee to attend this workshop, but registrations are requested. Interested stakeholders from any of the four districts are invited to either event! Hosted by the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation and funded by the City of Spokane ARPA Neighborhood Business District Grant, these workshops are meant for business and district support and enhancement.
About the Spokane Independent Metro Business Alliance: SIMBA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit creating an environment for local, independently-owned businesses in Spokane and Eastern Washington to thrive through organizing, education, direct support, and advocacy. To discover more about the ongoing resources SIMBA offers, please visit the SIMBA website at your convenience.
A special thanks to StartUp Spokane for their collaboration on this workshop.
Questions? Contact Josh Cleveland, Neighborhoods Liaison at the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation, at josh@preservewa.org.
SIMBA Board Meeting
Join us for the upcoming SIMBA Board Meeting, exclusively for SIMBA members.
Location: TBD
SIMBA Member Headshot Event
Tuesday, June 17 | 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Electric Photoland | 174 S. Howard St, Ste A, Spokane, WA 99201
Brought to you by SIMBA x Vested x Electric Photoland
Whether you're updating your LinkedIn, refreshing your team’s website, or just ready for a polished new headshot, you won’t want to miss this special SIMBA member event brought to you by SIMBA and SIMBA Members Electric Photoland and Vested.
FREE for SIMBA Members!
Bring your team for just $15 per person (paid in advance)
Receive 2–3 digital headshots—on the spot!
Snacks & beverages provided by SIMBA
Why Electric Photoland?
They make headshots fast, fun, and flawless. That’s right: no waiting days or weeks to receive your images. You’ll walk away with final headshots that day. Their professional photographers focus on comfort and confidence. We'll have two backdrops available, and you can network and mingle - and play in their custom photobooth while you wait! We are proud to call Electric Photoland SIMBA Members.
Space is limited—RSVP is required.
All guests must RSVP and prepay for team members no later than June 13, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.
Don’t miss this opportunity to get high-quality headshots at no cost to you as a SIMBA member. See you there!
SIMBA Board Meeting
Join us for the upcoming SIMBA Board Meeting, exclusively for SIMBA members.
Location: Saranac Building 3rd Floor Classroom, 25 W. Main or Zoom
SIMBA Members are always welcome to attend our Board Meetings. Please RSVP by June 6, 2025 at noon by emailing info@spokaneindependent.org.
SIMBA School of Business: Business Planning & Goal Setting
With support from the Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA), SIMBA School of Business is launching this spring. Whether you're starting or looking to grow, our free in-person workshops & 1:1 business support are designed to help you elevate your business to an A+ level!
Join us for a FREE workshop aimed at helping business owners develop effective business plans and set achievable goals.
Special thanks to our collaborators, Asotin County Library and the Nez Perce Tribe ‘itam’yatnáawit Program!
Business Planning & Goal Setting
Wednesday, June 4, 2025 | 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Asotin County Library & Zoom
417 Sycamore St. Clarkston, WA 99403
Zoom option available!
SIMBA School of Business Extra Credit: Review Business Licensing, Taxes, Social Media & Goals
Course 5: Extra Credit Session
With support from the Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA), SIMBA School of Business is launching this spring. Whether you're starting or looking to grow, our free in-person workshops & 1:1 business support are designed to help you elevate your business to an A+ level!
Join us for a bonus session of the SIMBA School of Business! This is your chance to review everything we've covered—from starting up and staying compliant to business planning and goal setting. Whether you missed a session or just want a refresher.
SIMBA Business Bites: Elevating Customer Engagement (Please Note New Date of May 21)
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW DATE & TIME!
Join Us for Our Upcoming SIMBA Business Bites: Elevating Customer Engagement
We'll focus on practical ways to strengthen relationships with your customers. In this session, we’ll cover strategies to improve communication, personalize interactions, and create a positive experience that encourages loyalty.
We host Business Bites every 2nd Wednesday of the month at noon, covering a variety of topics to support your small business. Grab your lunch, tune in, and let’s grow your business together!
RSVP to confirm your spot! Use the link below to join us on Zoom.
SIMBA School of Business: Social Media, Web Design, & SEO
With support from the Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA), SIMBA School of Business is launching this spring. Whether you're starting or looking to grow, our free in-person workshops & 1:1 business support are designed to help you elevate your business to an A+ level!
Join us for a workshop on boosting your online presence! Learn effective social media strategies, web design essentials, and SEO techniques to attract more customers and enhance your digital visibility.
Social Media, Web Design, & SEO
Date: Thursday, April 24th
Time: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Location: Whitman County Library
102 S. Main St. Colfax, WA 99111
"Developing an Accident Prevention Program with David Jeary" Live Rewatch
Did you miss the "Accident Prevention Program (APP) Workshop"? No worries—join us for a live rewatch where you can ask questions in real time!
Brought to you by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I), this session, led by David Jeary, focused on making your required Accident Prevention Program (APP) as effective as possible.
Did you know that having an APP is mandatory for all businesses in Washington?
The rewatch covers:
The essential elements of an APP
Common workplace hazards
How to select relevant topics and materials
Guidance on developing your program with expert advice and additional resources
Presented in partnership with StartUp Spokane. Please RSVP! link
Join us on Zoom using the link!
Market Ready: How to Prepare Your Booth
Join us for the Market Ready: Vendor Panel, where experienced local vendors will share their insights on navigating the local farmers' market scene. Learn the ins and outs of selling at markets, from booth setup and marketing to licensing and payment processing. You'll hear from local vendors, Bath by Bex, Mountain Top Mentality, 33 Artist Market, Bungalow Candle Studio, and House on a Hill Bakery.
What to Expect:
Guidance from seasoned vendors
Tips on setting up your booth to attract more customers
Understanding market rules, permits, and logistics
Q&A session to get your questions answered
Date & Time: April 16 | 5:30-7:30 PM
Location: Spokane Public Library - Central
906 W Main Ave, Spokane, WA 99201 (Events A)
Hosted in partnership with StartUp Spokane!
In-person only. Light snacks and refreshments are provided by SIMBA. Please RSVP!
SIMBA Board Meeting
Join us on Monday, April 14, 2025!
We’re excited to invite you to an in-person board meeting where we will deliver our 2024 Annual Report and share updates about SIMBA's progress, achievements, and future goals.
Date: Monday, April 14th
Time: 6:30 to 7:45 PM
Location: Saranac Building, 3rd Floor Classroom
25 W. Main Ave., Spokane, WA 99201
Exclusively for SIMBA members.
When you arrive, take the elevator located just past and to the left of Magic Lantern. Once on the 3rd floor, you’ll find the classroom to the right.
Come connect with fellow members, learn about our impact over the past year, and hear what’s on the horizon for SIMBA. We'll provide light snacks and beverages.
Please RSVP by April 11 at noon if you plan to attend in person! Let us know you'll be attending by emailing Grace Rowe at grace@spokaneindependent.org. Or, join us via Zoom.
We hope to see you there!
SIMBA School of Business: Business Finance Basics with the Jasmin Group PLLC
With support from the Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA), SIMBA School of Business is launching this spring. Whether you're starting or looking to grow, our free in-person workshops & 1:1 business support are designed to help you elevate your business to an A+ level! Join us for an informative workshop designed to help small business owners understand the fundamentals of finance with Amber Jasmin from Jasmin Group PLLC! This is in partnership with StartUp Spokane.
Business Finance Basics with the Jasmin Group PLLC
Date: Monday, March 24th
Time: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Location: Cheney Library
610 1st St. Cheney, WA 99004
“Workers’ Compensation: What You Need To Know with Holly C. Smith” Live Rewatch
Did you miss the "Workers’ Compensation: What You Need To Know with Holly C. Smith"? No worries—join us for a FREE live rewatch where you can ask questions in real-time!
Brought to you by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I),, this session featured Holly C. Smith from the Workers’ Compensation Determinations Unit, providing essential insights into workers' compensation. Learn key topics every business owner should understand to ensure compliance and protect their employees.
Brought to you by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I), this session, led by David Jeary, focused on making your required Accident Prevention Program (APP) as effective as possible.
Presented in partnership with StartUp Spokane. Please RSVP!
Join us on Zoom using the link!
SIMBA Business Bites: Small Business Federal Tax Filing Prep
Join us for our upcoming Business Bites: Small Business Federal Tax Filing Prep workshop, where we'll break down essential federal tax filing tips for small businesses. Learn how to stay compliant, maximize deductions, and avoid common mistakes.
We host Business Bites every 2nd Wednesday of the month at noon, covering a range of topics designed to support your small business. Grab your lunch, tune in, and let’s elevate your business together!
RSVP now to receive the Zoom link and join us.
SIMBA School of Business: Business Startups & Compliance
With support from the Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA), SIMBA School of Business is launching this spring. Whether you're starting or looking to grow, our free in-person workshops & 1:1 business support are designed to help you elevate your business to an A+ level!
Learn the essential steps to start a business in Washington! This workshop will cover business structures, licensing, tax requirements, and key compliance factors to start your business off right.
Business Startups & Compliance
Thursday, March 13 | 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Colville Library & Zoom
195 S. Oak St., Colville, WA 99114
SIMBA Member Morning Meet-Up
Start your morning with great company! Join fellow SIMBA members for coffee, conversation, and connection. Enjoy complimentary coffee and pastries while building valuable relationships within our SIMBA member community.
Date: Tuesday, March 11th
Time: 7:30 to 9:00 a.m.
Location: Saranac Commons | 19 W. Main Ave., Spokane, WA 99201
This is a SIMBA members-only event.
We look forward to seeing you there!
"You Need to Pay Family Members & Other Wage and Hour Tips for Small Business Owners" Live Rewatch
Did you miss the "You Need to Pay Family Members & Other Wage and Hour Tips for Small Business Owners" workshop? No worries—join us in person for a real-time replay!
Brought to you by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I), this session covers key wage and hour topics for small business owners, including employing family members and hiring minors. The SIMBA team will be there to pause and answer your questions live in real time.
Presented in partnership with StartUp Spokane. Please RSVP. A Zoom option is available upon RSVP.
SIMBA Business Bites: Live Local INW & Events
Join us for our upcoming Business Bites: Live Local INW & Events workshop! Discover how to leverage Live Local INW to connect with a growing audience passionate about supporting local businesses. We’ll guide you through LLINW’s brand-new Event Calendar and show you how to list your events, products, and deals to help your visibility and engagement.
Date: Wednesday, February 12, 2025
Time: 12:00 to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Zoom
We host Business Bites every 2nd Wednesday of the month at noon, covering a range of topics designed to support your small business. Grab your lunch, tune in, and let’s elevate your business together!
SIMBA Board Meeting
Join us for the upcoming SIMBA Board Meeting, exclusively for SIMBA members.
Location: TBD
Marketing for Creatives
Join us for Marketing for Creatives on January 30th from 5:30 to 6:30 PM at the Spokane Public Library - Central location (906 W Main Ave, Spokane, WA 99201, First Floor)
In partnership with the SIMBA, StartUp Spokane will provide tools and strategies for showcasing your art and growing your creative business.
For event inquiries, contact telref@spokanelibrary.org or call 509-444-5300.
SIMBA Business Bites: Business Planning with LivePlan
Join us for our upcoming Business Bites session, where we’ll dive into the fundamentals of social media for your business. Learn why business planning is essential for your success and how to use LivePlan, a powerful tool available through SIMBA, to grow your business.
Date: Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Time: 12:00 to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Zoom (RSVP for the link!)
We host Business Bites every 2nd Wednesday of the month at noon, covering a range of topics designed to support your small business. Grab your lunch, tune in, and let’s elevate your business together! 🦁
Small Business WA State Tax Filing Workshop
FREE workshop presented by SIMBA available for assistance with vendors completing the Washington State tax filing following the Manzanita House Winter Tea Tasting & Bazaar (Dec. 14).
SIMBA Membership Benefits Committee Meeting
SIMBA Membership Benefits Committee Meeting
Date: Monday, December 18, 2024
Time: 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Location: Zoom
This meeting is for SIMBA members only, and we encourage all members to attend!
As we approach the end of the year, we’ll finalize member benefits for 2025, review insights from our member survey, and gather your feedback to shape the future of SIMBA.
Help us make your membership even more valuable.
SIMBA Business Bites: Social Media Basics for Your Business
Join us for our upcoming Business Bites session, where we’ll dive into the fundamentals of social media for your business. Learn how to effectively use platforms to grow your brand, engage your audience, and boost your visibility. Whether you're just getting started or looking to refine your strategy, this session is perfect for small business owners ready to make an impact online.
RSVP here for the Zoom link!
We host Business Bites every 2nd Wednesday of the month at noon, covering a range of topics designed to support your small business. Grab your lunch, tune in, and let’s elevate your business together! 🦁
Small Business Holiday Social
Join us for our Small Business Holiday Social! Celebrate with us on Wednesday, December 4th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, at the Community Building, 35 W. Main Ave, Spokane, WA 99201! Enjoy drinks and appetizers from Nectar Events and Catering as we connect with fellow small business owners. Plus, enjoy a fun, interactive photo booth experience brought to you by Electric Photoland.
Shop and support local vendors:
Katie Frey Art
Minty Creations
Mountain Top Mentality
Plus, Kizuri will be open to explore and shop!
Free for SIMBA Members | $20 for Guests & Non-Members (includes food and 2 drink tickets for beer/wine)
Please RSVP for SIMBA Members here.
Non-member tickets are available here.
Small Business Workshop
SIMBA is partnering with Manzanita House to present a FREE Small Business Workshop!
This is a fantastic opportunity for multicultural vendors to learn how to obtain a free temporary business license and gain insights on starting your own business. We encourage vendors to showcase their goods at the Manzanita House 2024 Tea Tasting and Bazaar on December 14th at the Martin Luther King Center!
SIMBA Board Meeting
Join us for the upcoming SIMBA Board Meeting, exclusively for SIMBA members.
The City Files Workshop
This is a workshop for musicians making their way in the arts and entertainment industry, performing at upcoming events, and restaurant gigs, and supporting starting a business as a musician/ performing artist.
Our goal for the workshop is to encourage musicians to pick up at least a few new ideas, tricks, and techniques to help them succeed as artists. This is a FREE Workshop.
For more information RSVP here!
Workers Compensation: What You Need to Know
Join us for an informative session with Holly C. Smith from the Workers’ Compensation Determinations Unit at the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). Holly will provide essential insights into workers' compensation, covering key topics that every business owner should understand to ensure compliance and protect their employees. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and ask your questions directly to an expert!
Health Care for Business Owners with Washington Health Plan Finder
Join us for an informative session with Marie Cooper from the Washington Health Benefit Exchange. You’ll learn about the importance of health insurance, explore healthcare options for business owners and their employees, and understand how to sign up for an individual plan on Washington
Healthplanfinder during Open Enrollment (November 1st – January 15th). Don’t miss out on securing the coverage you and your team need!
RSVP for the link!
SIMBA Business Bites: How to File Your Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI)
Join us for our upcoming Business Bites session, where we’ll provide guidance on how to file your Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI).
Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) filings are a new federal government requirement for ALL BUSINESSES that are structured as an LLC, a corporation, a formal partnership, and a few other entity structures. Sole proprietorships and d/b/as DO NOT have to complete a filing.
Filings for all LLCs, Corporations, formal partnerships, and related businesses formed before January 1, 2024, must be completed by January 1, 2025. If you established your business this year, you have 90 days to file.
Don’t miss this opportunity to simplify the filing process and get your questions answered! We’ll host SIMBA Business Bites every 2nd Wednesday of the month at noon, covering various topics to support your small business. Grab your lunch, get comfy, and let’s elevate your business together!
RSVP now to get the Zoom link!
“Food Truck Owners & Entrepreneurs L&I requirements”Live Rewatch
Did you miss the 'Food Truck Owners & Entrepreneurs L&I Requirements' workshop? No worries—join us on Zoom for a real-time replay! Learn essential Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) requirements and local permitting from the Spokane Regional Health District, with the SIMBA team answering your questions live.
RSVP now to get the Zoom link!