Business Brew with Kellie Thompson and Fred Houck

Our guests on February 7th, 2025, will be Kelli Thompson and Fred Houck, who will be discussing "A Groundbreaking Approach to Funding New Businesses."

Kelli Thompson is the Program Coordinator for Gonzaga University's New Venture Lab, where she brings local entrepreneurs and motivated college students together in a collaborative environment, enabling students to learn business through hands-on experience. Each semester, Kelli leads student teams as they work with entrepreneurs to tackle their real-world challenges, delivering actionable solutions such as market research, financial analysis, and social media strategies. This provides valuable experience to students while delivering entrepreneurs the support needed to grow and refine their ventures.

With a background as a financial advisor and business owner, Kelli relates personally to the challenges entrepreneurs face. She has owned and successfully sold several businesses, gaining firsthand experience in scaling operations, navigating market trends, and leveraging technology to drive growth. Her role as a mentor and pitch coach further highlights her commitment to guiding new businesses toward sustainable success. Whether it's helping entrepreneurs refine their vision, secure funding, or build a compelling narrative, Kelli is passionate about equipping them with the tools, resources, and confidence to bring their ideas to life.

Fred Houck graduated Mead High and then served in the U.S. Navy (1986-1990) as a Plane Captain for the P3 Orion at Moffett Field, CA. After, he earned a business degree from Gonzaga in 1995. He then worked as a District Director for the Boy Scouts of America for 9 years in Spokane, managing thousands of volunteers and scouts.

In 2003, after completing his MBA at Gonzaga, Fred transitioned to financial services, working as both a Commercial Banker and Financial Advisor for 20 years. Recognizing a gap in startup funding, he founded Dream Funders in 2023, a non-profit organization aimed at helping new businesses secure capital. The organization received 501c3 status in August 2024 and plans its kickoff fundraiser & business networking event for March 7th, 2025.

Business Brew is a simple idea—just coffee with a business expert. Business owners and entrepreneurs can ask questions and get real-time answers and feedback. The agenda and structure are simple and meant to inspire natural conversation. It’s an informal gathering designed to support the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Spokane region.

Host or Publisher Business Brew