Spokane, WA, June 1, 2026 — Innovia Foundation has been honored with the Council on Foundations’ first-ever “Building Together” Award, presented at the Council’s Building Together Conference held May 5–7 in Seattle, Washington. The award recognizes philanthropic organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to collaboration, community partnership, and bringing people together across lines of difference.
Innovia Foundation was selected for its deep and sustained investment in community-driven solutions across Eastern Washington and North Idaho. Through its grantmaking, convening power, and leadership in cross-sector partnerships, Innovia has worked to strengthen local capacity, elevate community voice, and align resources around the region’s most pressing challenges.
“It’s evident that there is a genuine love of people and community undergirding the work,” wrote one of the judges who selected Innovia for the Council award.
The foundation’s approach emphasizes trust-based philanthropy, long-term relationship building, and a belief that lasting change is rooted in collaboration. This work has earned support from national funders like the Trust for Civic Life and the Aspen Institute.
“Innovia Foundation exemplifies what it means to build together,” said Kathleen Enright, President and CEO, Council on Foundations. “Their work reflects a clear commitment to engaging communities as partners, fostering regional collaboration, and advancing opportunities for all.”
The recognition highlights Innovia’s role in bringing together nonprofits, civic leaders, donors, and residents to co-create solutions that reflect local priorities. From rural community initiatives to regional economic development efforts, Innovia has consistently centered shared leadership in its work.
“We are deeply honored to receive the Council on Foundations’ inaugural ‘Building Together’ Award,” said Shelly O’Quinn, CEO of Innovia Foundation. “This recognition belongs to the many partners, organizations, and community members who show up every day to strengthen our region. At Innovia, we believe that vibrant and sustainable communities are built together, where every person has the opportunity to thrive, and this award affirms the power of that shared vision.”
The Building Together Conference brought philanthropic leaders from across the country to Seattle to explore strategies for advancing collaboration and strengthening community impact. Innovia’s recognition underscores the importance of regional foundations in fostering connection, trust, and coordinated action.
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.
