At Washington Trust, we understand that one of the key ingredients of a healthy economy is a flourishing small business sector. In continuing a partnership established years ago by Executive Chairman Peter Stanton, the Bank made a $100,000 donation to AHANA, Spokane's multi-ethnic business association.
In a recent expansion, AHANA celebrated its new location in Spokane's University District. The renovated space, located at 327 E. Pacific Ave. includes offices, a training room, and small business incubator spaces, enabling AHANA to expand their offerings and better support the region's multi-ethnic and multicultural small business community. By contrast, Peter's support of the organization isn't new; he's been involved with the organization since their inception in the late 90's. He and a group of Washington Trust representatives were on hand at the event to celebrate this significant milestone and to provide support for the important work they're doing. The Bank's donation supports AHANA's purchase of the building, from which it will expand its business assistance programs (detailed below).
During the facility's conversion, a section of the building was dedicated as Peter Stanton Hall to honor Pete for his long-standing support of the organization. Stanton Hall will be used for small business workshops, community meetings, meet-and-greet receptions, and board meetings.
About AHANA
As challenging as it can be for anyone starting a small business, it can be especially difficult for multi-ethnic and multicultural business owners, who often face additional challenges in today's commercial landscape. That’s where AHANA comes in.
AHANA—their name an acronym standing for Asian, Hispanic, African, and Native American—has been providing support and engagement for multi-ethnic and multicultural business owners and working professionals in the Inland Northwest since 1998. While they rebranded in 2018, their mission has remained the same: to advocate, educate, assist, and develop growth opportunities for multi-ethnic and multicultural businesses and nonprofit organizations. To achieve this mission, AHANA focuses on five main areas of need, providing:
- Access to working capital for start-ups, business retention, and expansion.
- Counseling, training, education, information, and resources for business owners.
- A supportive network of business owners facing similar challenges.
- Networking opportunities and partnerships with government organizations and businesses through supplier diversity programs.
- Expanded employment opportunities for AHANA professionals through their promotion of workplace diversity.
Washington Trust's support of multiethnic businesses in Spokane and the Inland Northwest is unquestionable. This donation is a testament to that commitment.
Francis Adewale, AHANA Executive Chairman
“As we celebrate AHANA's new chapter, this dedicated space will serve as a hub for learning, collaboration, and growth, reflecting our community's collective dedication to nurturing diverse, entrepreneurial talent in the Inland Northwest,” added Dominic DeCaro, VP / Small Business Banking and Credit Resource Center Director.
Want to learn more?
To learn more about AHANA and the programs they provide, check out their website at www.ahana-meba.org.
To learn more about AHANA and the programs they provide, check out their website at www.ahana-meba.org.
