Featured Events in May 2025

AZBizCon 2025 – May 7
Hosted by the Arizona Small Business Association (ASBA), this flagship event at the National Bank of Arizona in Phoenix features a full day of networking, seminars, and an expo. It's a prime opportunity to connect with fellow entrepreneurs and discover innovative resources.
Empowering Rural America: SBA resources for your rural small business
Tuesday, May 6, 2025 at 2:00pm ET / 11:00am PT
Small businesses have long been the lifeblood of rural communities nationwide, fostering local job growth and economic opportunities that help Rural America thrive; however, rural small businesses continue to encounter significant challenges to growth, primarily due to geographic constraints that restrict access to capital, resources and access to a skilled workforce.

To learn more about how The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is working to support rural businesses nationwide, join Small Business Majority and SBA’s Office of Rural Affairs for an overview of agency’s resources and lending products that are tailored to meet the unique needs of rural businesses. Following the presentation, small business owners in attendance will have the opportunity to ask questions about how to access these programs.

Find more Arizona local small business events on the Arizona SBDC Events/Workshops Page

Ongoing Programs & Resources

Arizona Small Business Boot Camp
Offered by the Arizona Commerce Authority, this initiative provides virtual webinars and hands-on workshops to help small businesses prepare, plan, and grow. Topics range from marketing strategies to HR optimization.
Impact AZ 2025
A statewide program aimed at aiding Black and minority-owned businesses in preparing for contracting opportunities. It offers comprehensive technical assistance to strengthen operating capacity and capital readiness.
Moonshot Rural Pitch Competition – Date To Be Announced
This annual event invites entrepreneurs and business owners to pitch their ideas, similar to a "Shark Tank" format. It's an excellent platform to gain exposure and receive feedback on your business concepts.
Globe-Miami Chamber of Commerce: Offers ongoing support and resources for local businesses. Stay updated on networking events and opportunities by visiting their official website and Facebook page.

Funding Resources

Arizona Microbusiness Loan Program
Designed for businesses with five or fewer employees, this program offers loans ranging from $2,000 to $50,000. It also includes financial education and training to support loan recipients.
Southern Gila County EDC
Provides micro business loans for locally owned businesses at low interest rates.
Small Business Loans - RCAC
For businesses to retain or create jobs and thus improve the economic condition of rural communities. The business must be located in a rural community defined as 50,000 or less population. This program offers short-term loans for working capital and lines of credit as well as long-term loans for real estate and equipment.

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May 2025

April 2025