Columbia Gorge Ventures Co-Founder Named Small Business Leader

The announcement is the latest sign of momentum for Vancouver's business community, which has drawn growing attention from investors across the Pacific Northwest.

"It's a big step forward for Vancouver, and it wouldn't have happened without a lot of people pulling in the same direction," said James Anderson, founder.

The company now employs roughly 56 people across its Washington operations, with plans to keep hiring if growth holds through next year. Leadership says Vancouver's talent pipeline was a deciding factor in choosing to expand locally rather than out of state.

"It took teamwork, but we got there." — James Anderson

Company leadership says an update on hiring and expansion plans is expected before the end of the year.