Spokane, WA, January 26, 2026 — In an era when our communities can feel increasingly divided, Innovia Foundation is convening business and civic leaders, changemakers, and engaged residents for two days of inspiration, innovation, and connection. The 2026 Innovia Leadership Summit, Building Trust. Building Community, will take place March 16–17 at the Spokane Convention Center, offering tangible strategies for strengthening local trust, building relationships, and increasing resiliency for communities across the region.
This year’s Summit invites professionals from every sector—business, nonprofit, philanthropy, and government—to explore how renewed trust and civic connection drive stronger economies and more vibrant communities. Attendees will gain tools to bridge divides, inspire collaboration in their neighborhoods and workplaces, and spark momentum for positive change.
Across two dynamic days, participants will experience:
- Nationally recognized keynote speakers on the power of trust and connection in leadership
- Interactive storytelling sessions designed to strengthen community
- Practical insights on investing in youth, fostering belonging, and creating opportunity for young people in our region
- A first look at Innovia Foundation’s new Civic Engagement Grants, designed to help neighbors and communities come together around shared meals for positive social connection regardless of political or cultural divides
Headlining speakers include:
- Maryam Banikarim, host of The Messy Parts podcast and co-founder of The Longest Table. She’ll share the incredible impact of The Longest Table program, which began as a small outdoor gathering of eight neighbors amid the pandemic, and has since transformed into a nationwide movement.
- John Noltner, author and founder of A Peace of My Mind, will host a live storytelling exhibit, inviting event participants to contribute their own perspectives on trust and community.
- Terry Kyllo, Executive Director of Paths to Understanding, will lead attendees through The Potluck Project, showing how simple acts of gathering can heal divides and rebuild local cohesion.
Additional featured speakers include:
- Catherine Ettman, Assistant Professor, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health
- Elissa Yancey, Founder and Creative Director, A Picture’s Worth
- Mara Tieken, Professor of Education, Bates College
- Stephy Nobles-Beans, educator and community leader
- Al Getler, Vice President of Business Development, Community Heart & Soul
“Innovia is honored to bring community members together to join us in making more possible throughout 2026,” says Shelly O’Quinn, CEO of Innovia Foundation. “The Summit provides a meaningful opportunity to share stories, create connections and continue our work to build local trust and collaborate on the issues that matter most in our region.”
Registration for the two-day Summit is $99. Space is limited. For details and registration, visit innovia.org/summit.
About Innovia Foundation
As the community foundation for Eastern Washington and North Idaho, we partner with people who want to improve their communities and make the world better. We work together to identify and respond to our region’s greatest opportunities, help those in need, and leave a lasting impact. Our mission is to ignite generosity that transforms lives and communities. We envision vibrant and sustainable communities where every person has the opportunity to thrive. Each year, Innovia Foundation invests $14 million into our communities through grants and scholarships.
