News Summary
On July 23, 2025, the Arizona Commerce Authority, along with local business leaders, launched the Small Business Growth Coalition aimed at bolstering entrepreneurship. The coalition targets the development of 10,000 small businesses by 2030 and plans to offer extensive resources, including educational programs and funding opportunities. Programs like SCALE and various support initiatives aim to enhance collaboration among small business service providers and drive measurable economic impact. The coalition represents a commitment to sustaining Arizona’s strong small business growth rate and fostering a thriving entrepreneurial environment.
Arizona Launches Statewide Small Business Growth Coalition
On July 23, 2025, the Arizona Commerce Authority and local business leaders officially unveiled the Arizona Small Business Growth Coalition (SBGC), a new statewide initiative aimed at enhancing the economic landscape through increased entrepreneurship.
The SBGC is designed as a collaborative alliance of established organizations dedicated to supporting the growth and sustainability of small businesses across Arizona. This coalition aims to assist in the development of 10,000 homegrown businesses by the year 2030 and is set to provide up to 1,000 distinct small business assists each year for the next three years. As part of these efforts, various resources will be made available to local entrepreneurs, including educational programs and funding opportunities.
The Arizona Commerce Authority has outlined numerous programs to aid small business owners, such as the State Small Business Credit Initiative Technical Assistance Program and the Arizona Loan Guarantee Program. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to stimulate economic development within the state through the foundation of small businesses, which are crucial to local economies.
Coalition Goals and Initiatives
Among the key components of the coalition’s framework is the new SCALE (Strategic Coaching for Advancing Local Entrepreneurs) program, aimed at providing tailored support for small business development. The SBGC is also focusing on promoting collaboration among different service providers to create a measurable economic impact within the community.
Recent data indicates that Arizona’s small business growth rate is among the highest in the United States, boasting an increase of 4.32%. This positive trend underscores the timely relevance of the SBGC’s creation; the coalition represents a concerted effort to continue this momentum and further strengthen the local economy.
Founding Members and Perspectives
The coalition consists of six trusted organizations, each committed to ensuring small businesses thrive in Arizona. Founding members expressed their dedication to fostering development and connection among local business owners. They highlighted the significance of small businesses not only as economic contributors but as vital stakeholders in the community fabric.
The Arizona Commerce Authority’s President and CEO noted the essential role small businesses play in shaping local communities and supporting the state’s economy. Furthermore, the Interim CEO of the Arizona Small Business Association emphasized the significance of unified efforts within the small business community to nurture resilience and growth.
Officials from various sectors, including the Better Business Bureau and Prestamos CDFI, noted that trust and accessibility to resources are foundational elements for creating a healthy economic environment. The coalition’s commitment to empower entrepreneurs through comprehensive resources, such as the Arizona Small Business Checklist, will help business owners navigate the challenges of launching and managing their businesses.
Educational Opportunities and Support
In addition to hands-on assistance, the Arizona Small Business Academy and the Arizona Small Business Boot Camp are integral components of the coalition’s offerings. These programs provide free educational resources and practical workshops, supporting entrepreneurs in building their business acumen and fostering growth.
The SBGC is not just a coalition but a response to the growing demand for entrepreneurial support in Arizona. As the state looks towards a future where small businesses continue to flourish and innovate, the coalition stands as a pivotal step in ensuring that Arizona remains a leader in small business development.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Arizona Commerce Authority: Arizona Small Business Growth Coalition
- Arizona Commerce Authority: Small Business Resources
- National Federation of Independent Business: Small Business Tax Deduction in Arizona
- AZ Big Media: Arizona Among Top 10 States for Small Business Growth
- Wikipedia: Small Business
