Spokane, WA – June 23, 2025 – INTENT and Urbanova are excited to announce their merger, forming a unified organization dedicated to advancing energy innovation and sustainable solutions in the Inland Northwest region. This strategic merger combines the strengths of both organizations to create a powerful force for clean energy transformation and community engagement.
The newly formed entity will leverage the Inland Northwest region’s legacy of power engineering excellence, abundant hydroelectric resources, and strong public-private collaboration to contribute to clean energy innovation.
Mason Burley, Urbanova Chief Executive Officer, said the Pacific Northwest faces several energy challenges, including rising load growth, energy resource retirements, transmission constraints, more frequent extreme weather events, and ambitious policy targets.
He went on to say there is a role for the merged non-profit organization of Urbanova and INTENT to play to help address these challenges. Going forward, the organization will focus on helping to accelerate clean energy and sustainability solutions by convening experts and advancing policy and technology innovations.
“This merger represents a significant milestone in our journey towards a sustainable energy future,” said Hendrick Van Hermert, board chair of INTENT. “By combining our expertise and resources, we are poised to drive transformative energy initiatives that accelerate the equitable decarbonization of the regional power grid, preserve scarce natural resources, and improve jobs and economic mobility for the people of the Inland Northwest.”
“We are thrilled to join forces with INTENT to create a unified organization that will contribute efforts to advance the urgent transition to clean energy,” said Jason Verduzco, board chair of Urbanova. “Our shared vision and commitment to innovation will continue to position the Inland Northwest as a hub of energy expertise and collaboration.”
“As part of our ongoing efforts, we will be renaming the organization and hosting a symposium with WSU on July 7 and 8, while the board and staff continue with strategic planning,” Verduzco said.
About Urbanova:
Urbanova is a public-private-academic partnership organization focused on civic innovation initiatives. Founded as a smart city collaboration, Urbanova is transitioning to focus exclusively on energy innovation in the region.
About INTENT:
INTENT is a collaborative initiative focused on developing an energy ecosystem in the Inland Northwest region. The organization aims to leverage partnerships with various stakeholders to promote sustainable energy solutions and innovation.
