Spokane, WA, January 26, 2026 — Innovia Foundation invites community members, nonprofit partners, and change-makers to the annual Community Leadership Summit taking place March 16-17 at the Spokane Convention Center. This year’s theme, “Building Trust, Building Community,” will spark meaningful conversation on how trust serves as the cornerstone for collective action and lasting community impact.
Over two days, participants from across 20 counties will hear from national and local speakers, engage in interactive learning sessions, and strengthen both new and existing relationships centered on community wellbeing.
Nationally recognized speakers Maryam Banikarim and John Noltner are two of the featured keynotes.
Maryam Banikarim is the host of The Messy Parts Podcast, co-founder of The Longest Table, and Chair of the WSJ Institutes CMO Council. 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 is the Founder and Executive Director of A Peace of My Mind, a multimedia arts project that uses portraits and personal stories to bridge divides and build community across the United States. During the Summit, John will host an interactive exhibit for event attendees, allowing residents of our region to contribute their own stories to his project.
“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 strengthen relationships and build trust locally.”
Cost of attending both days of the Summit is $99. For more information and to register, 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.
