At Local First, we’ve always believed that the success of locally owned businesses creates a strong and thriving Arizona economy. But one of the biggest challenges for local entrepreneurs has long been access to capital — especially in Arizona, where community banking resources are limited. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to break down financial barriers and build new pathways for funding that empower business owners to grow, hire and create a lasting impact on Arizona’s communities.

2024 was a year of impact for Local First, for local businesses and for procurement engagement. Over the course of the year, Local First Arizona attended more than a half-dozen procurement-related events hosted by businesses such as SRP, Aviation, the City of Mesa, and the Arizona Department of Transportation, among others.

Each month, we celebrate the businesses that are shaping Arizona’s local economy, enriching communities, and strengthening connections across the state. From visual storytelling and film to home improvement and flooring solutions, this month’s featured businesses showcase the power of local entrepreneurship.

For women throughout Tucson’s history, business ownership has been about more than ‌making a livelihood; it has been about fostering community and creating a legacy of empowerment and inspiration. This Women’s History Month, Local First Arizona shines a light on two of our women-owned member businesses that have been making an impact on our city for more than 50 years.

In an exciting step toward strengthening local entrepreneurship, 11 businesses have been selected for the first-ever Fuerza Local Business Accelerator Program, a partnership between Local First Arizona and the City of San Luis Economic Development Department

Anyone who calls Arizona homes appreciates its unique beauty and character, and at Local First Arizona, we recognize that the spirit of the state is reflected by its local entrepreneurs. Arizona’s small businesses are a vital ingredient of the state’s overall economy, creating jobs and generating revenue at a pace that ranks the state in the top 10 for local business growth in the country.

A new month means new opportunities to celebrate local businesses making an impact across Arizona! From preserving history and expanding workforce development to building vibrant marketplaces, these businesses are shaping stronger, more connected communities.

Dr. Janet Tate-Brown, DNP, a board-certified nurse practitioner with years of experience in a hospital’s emergency department, excelled at patient care. However, when it came to business ownership, she felt like she needed a bit more guidance. That’s when she discovered We Rise, a no-fee business accelerator offered by Local First Arizona for the state’s community of Black business owners. The program turned out to be exactly what she needed.

The Reid Park Zoo in Tucson doesn’t have a typical water bill, in that the city covers that expense for the nonprofit organization. But, as a conservation-focused organization, zoo leadership still wanted to draw down its water usage even if most of the water it uses is reclaimed.

We’re excited to kick off January 2025 by celebrating the newest members of the Business Coalition! These inspiring businesses exemplify the spirit of localism, contributing innovative ideas, meaningful services, and a strong commitment to their communities. Together, they’re helping to create a more connected, equitable, and resilient Arizona. Meet them and discover how they’re making a difference!

We’re excited to spotlight the newest additions to the Local First Arizona Business Coalition! These innovative entrepreneurs embody the spirit of localism, bringing unique skills, services and solutions to their communities. As valued coalition members, they contribute to a thriving ecosystem of businesses building a more connected and resilient Arizona. Explore their stories and see how they are making a difference!

Nella's Kreations highlights cultural foods of Arizona and represents Ancestral Food Ways of the Navajo Community. Denella is proudly growing her business from the Local First Arizona Community Kitchen - South Phoenix .

The craft beer industry in Arizona has grown exponentially since Four Peaks Brewing Company opened in Tempe in 1996. Back then, only seven microbreweries were licensed in the state. Today, there are 122.

Taking the name from the iconic mountains located in the Tonto National Forest, the founders of Four Peaks — Andy Ingram, Jim Scussel and Randy Schultz — have kept close to their roots, investing time, money and mentorship into the local beer industry and the wider community.

We are excited to introduce the latest additions to the Local First Arizona Business Coalition! These businesses represent a diverse range of industries and demonstrate the commitment to localism that drives Arizona’s economy. Learn more about how they are making an impact in their communities and leading the way in their respective fields.

On any given night, 50,000 U.S. veterans are homeless and living on the streets — that’s 23% of the country’s homeless population. 25% of these heroes who have fallen on hard times seek help from programs like Local First Arizona community partner, Esperanza En Escalante. 

Since 1989, Esperanza has provided Tucson’s veterans and veterans’ families with safe, secure transitional housing for up to two years. This housing is offered in conjunction with an array of supportive services to help clients find employment, schooling and permanent housing so that they will be able to lead productive, self-sufficient lives.

It starts by asking yourself a simple question. What do you love? Perhaps you love Arizona’s rural communities, or the state’s rich agricultural history. You might be passionate about sustainability, or dedicated to helping Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs.

No matter your passion, charitable giving can be a meaningful way to catalyze change in your neighborhood and throughout Arizona.

The Pascua Yaqui Development Corporation is creating good-paying jobs with a new construction training center funded by a $4 million federal grant.

Local First Arizona helped the corporation apply for the grant through its Arizona Economic Resource Center.

October marks National Women’s Small Business Month, recognizing the more than 14 million women-owned businesses in the United States and celebrating their contributions to the economic stability and growth of their local communities. One such business is Local First Arizona coalition member Cocktail Lab AZ, owned and operated by Tucsonan Rachel D’Acquisto.