The Pacific Northwest Jazz Alliance was formed in August, 1992, by Bellingham area jazz producers David Keller and Jud Sherwood, in order to bring regional and national jazz artists to Bellingham. In 1995, the PNJA incorporated as a non-profit organization in order to become eligible for city and arts grants, and selected a board of directors. Over the next several years, the PNJA brought dozens of notable performers to the area, including Steve Allen, Herb Ellis, Diana Krall, Poncho Sanchez, Dee Daniels, Buddy Collette, and Maria Muldaur. In addition, PNJA engaged in a number of jazz-related charitable and educational endeavors in the community.

The Pacific Northwest Jazz Alliance focused heavily on bringing quality jazz entertainment to Bellingham while maintaining reasonable ticket prices. The organization obtained funding through corporate sponsorship, individual memberships, and grants, such as the Bellingham Motel and Hotel Tax Fund. After Jud Sherwood resigned from the board in 1997, and David Keller in 2001, Don Beasley served as president until the PNJA closed operations in 2005, due to increasing financial difficulties.