Politics & Common Sense — Column by John Spencer
In the heart of Kootenai County lies a tale of two forces: towering giants like the Hagadone Corporation, Kootenai Hospital, and North Idaho College and the resilient small businesses that thrive in their shadow.
As of 2021, Kootenai County is home to approximately 5,755 small business establishments, which accounts for 99.9% of all businesses in the county according to Local News 8. With a population of 180,146, this equates to about 32 small businesses per 1,000 residents, highlighting the county’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit.
As Coeur d’Alene continues to flourish as a hub for tourism and community life, the coexistence of these entities becomes crucial for a balanced and thriving local economy.
The larger corporations contribute to the local economy. The Hagadone Corporation, for example, generates significant tourism revenue and creates hundreds of jobs. Beyond its financial impact, its beautification projects and philanthropic efforts have left an indelible mark on our community.
Yet, as with any dominant presence, the outsized influence of large corporations comes with challenges, and those can oftentimes overshadow the smaller businesses that form the backbone of Coeur d’Alene’s unique charm. For small entrepreneurs, standing out in the shadow of such a giant requires creativity, resilience, and strong community ties.
Take, for example, Lyfe Coffee Roasters and Public House, a beloved local establishment highlighted in the December 3, 2024, edition of Kootenai Journal.
This small business has carved out a niche by emphasizing community connection, sustainable practices, and a distinct personality that resonates with locals and tourists alike.
Lyfe Coffee’s success demonstrates how small businesses can thrive by offering something unique—an experience that large corporations, for all their grandeur, cannot replicate. It is a community gathering place and home to many non-profit organizations.
Small businesses like Lyfe face challenges beyond competition from corporate giants. Rising rents, limited access to capital, and the need to adapt to evolving consumer preferences are just a few hurdles.
The future of Coeur d’Alene and surrounding communities and cities lies not in choosing between big and small business, but in fostering an environment where both can thrive. Large corporations like Hagadone bring vital infrastructure, job opportunities, and tourism dollars. Its presence elevates the profile of Kootenai County, creating a ripple effect that benefits the broader economy. At the same time, small businesses contribute a sense of identity, character, and authenticity that no corporation can match.
For this symbiosis to work, collaboration is key. Large companies can support small businesses by sourcing locally, collaborating on events, and investing in shared community spaces. For example, partnerships between these larger companies and local suppliers could create mutually beneficial opportunities, further weaving the local economy together.
There are examples however, in which larger corporations have been using their influence and economic power to bully and coerce. If you have a chance, you should visit Lyfe Coffee and chat with Dave Miller, the owner, about his current experience with his new leaseholder Hagadone.
When you spend your dollars in Kootenai County, Coeur d’Alene, Hayden, Post Falls, etcetera, you have a choice on where those dollars go and who are you supporting. Knowledge is a powerful tool and taking the time to learn will have great returns for you and the local community.
For Coeur d’Alene to remain a vibrant and balanced community, it must embrace both its giants and its grassroots. This requires dialogue, cooperation, and a shared vision for sustainable growth.
Policies that support small businesses, such as grants or reduced rents, combined with initiatives that encourage corporate responsibility and local partnerships, can create a more vibrant ecosystem. The larger corporations in our area should be embracing concerns like the Lyfe Coffee and engaging in practices that create an environment of success for entrepreneurs.
Ultimately, the heart of Coeur d’Alene’s success lies in its diversity. By blending the strengths of large corporations like Hagadone with the resilience of small businesses, the community can continue to thrive—offering both world-class attractions and the intimate charm that makes Kootenai County feel like home.
