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Unleashing Economic Opportunity

Since 2003, Local First Arizona has been fiercely dedicated to driving inclusive community and economic development throughout Arizona.

We have created a movement that champions a thriving and diverse economy, fostering community support and an unwavering sense of local pride and purpose in every Arizonan.

Our work shapes the future of Arizona by advocating that every individual and community deserves the opportunity to thrive, and that entrepreneurship is at the core of any lasting economy.

In rural, Tribal, suburban and urban communities across our great state, Local First is delivering resources to ensure a future focused on economic opportunity for all.

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Local First News

Featured

November 2, 2026

Where Arizona Banks, Arizona Builds: Conversations About the Power of Local Finance

November 2, 2026

Where we bank matters just as much as where we shop. Financial institutions influence which businesses can grow, who can buy a home and how much of Arizona's wealth stays invested in our communities. In this six-part podcast series, Local First Arizona sits down with leaders from Arizona credit unions to explore the power of local financial relationships — from expanding access to capital and strengthening local businesses to creating opportunities for families and communities across the state. Explore the conversations below to discover how banking decisions can help shape Arizona's economic future.

November 2, 2026

October 28, 2026

Beyond the Loan: Why Financial Relationships Matter for Arizona Businesses

October 28, 2026

Desert Financial Credit Union's Andrea Mosher discusses access to capital, building trust and why business owners need more than a place to borrow money.

October 28, 2026

October 23, 2026

Your Guide to the 20th Annual Certified Local Fall Festival

October 23, 2026

Come hungry. Bring your friends. Maybe even bring your dog. Arizona's biggest celebration of local businesses is back, and there's more than one way to experience it.

On Saturday, November 7, Local First Arizona's Certified Local Fall Festival returns to Margaret T. Hance Park in downtown Phoenix for its 20th anniversary. With approximately 250 vendors, live entertainment, food, drinks and activities for all ages, this free celebration brings together the people and businesses that make Arizona one of a kind.

October 23, 2026

Not Just Another Festival: What Makes the Certified Local Fall Festival Different

October 23, 2026

Fall in Phoenix means the return of outdoor markets, festivals and community celebrations. From Oktoberfest and Halloween festivities to vintage markets and the Arizona State Fair, there's no shortage of reasons to get outside.

But there's one festival with a distinctly Arizona mission: Local First Arizona's Certified Local Fall Festival.

This isn't a festival that happens to feature local businesses. It's a festival built around them.

October 23, 2026