Arizona: Business Resources
Starting or expanding a business in Arizona means navigating both opportunity and challenge. Whether you’re based in Phoenix, Tucson, or a smaller desert town, this resource page brings together the best tools, programs, and local support to help your business grow in the Grand Canyon State.
Arizona Business Resources
State & Federal Government Resources
The ACA is the state’s leading economic development organization. It offers a comprehensive suite of programs and services for small businesses, including the Small Business Bootcamp, and resources for starting, operating, and growing a business in Arizona.
An online portal designed to be a single, centralized location for entrepreneurs to find the information and resources they need to plan, start, and grow their business in Arizona.
The ACC is responsible for the registration of all corporations and LLCs in Arizona. Their eCorp platform allows for online filing and management of business entity documents.
ADOR provides essential information on business tax registration, transaction privilege tax (TPT) licensing, and employer withholding tax requirements for businesses operating in Arizona
The SBA’s Arizona District Office offers a wide range of federal programs and services for small businesses, including access to capital, counseling, and contracting assistance.
Funding & Financial Assistance
Administered by the Arizona Commerce Authority, the SSBCI program helps small businesses secure funding by providing loan guarantees and co-investments to lenders and investors.
As a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), Prestamos provides fair and affordable loans to small businesses that may not qualify for traditional financing, with a focus on underserved communities.
While offering a broad range of resources, ASBA provides access to capital programs and connects small businesses with potential funding sources through its network and events.
ACF offers a variety of grant opportunities for non-profit organizations and, in some cases, for-profit businesses that align with their community development goals.
The ACA offers various grant programs, such as the Arizona Innovation Challenge, which awards funding to innovative early-stage companies.
Business Development, Mentorship & Support
The AZSBDC provides no-cost, confidential counseling and low-cost training to small business owners and entrepreneurs in areas such as business planning, marketing, and financial management.
With chapters across the state, SCORE offers free mentorship from experienced business professionals. They also provide workshops and online resources to help small businesses at every stage.
A non-profit organization focused on community and economic development, Local First Arizona offers a variety of business support programs, including accelerators, workshops, and networking opportunities.
This non-partisan “do-tank” works on initiatives to advance the state’s economy. Their work in workforce development and economic opportunity can provide valuable insights and connections for small businesses.
In addition to its role as a chamber, this organization offers numerous business development programs, workshops, and networking events specifically tailored to support Hispanic-owned businesses.
Chambers of Commerce & Professional Associations
The state’s leading business advocacy group, the Arizona Chamber represents the interests of businesses of all sizes at the state legislature and provides networking and educational opportunities.
As one of the largest chambers in the state, the Greater Phoenix Chamber offers a wide array of programs, events, and advocacy to support businesses in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
The Tucson Metro Chamber is a key advocate for businesses in Southern Arizona, providing resources, networking events, and leadership development programs.
A vital association for technology-focused businesses, the council provides networking, advocacy, and educational events for the state’s growing tech industry.
ASBA is a statewide organization that provides a platform for small businesses to connect, learn, and advocate for their interests through various events and programs.
Food, Agriculture & Tourism Resources
The department offers a range of services for agricultural businesses, including licensing, inspections, and market development programs.
This office provides resources and promotional opportunities for businesses in the tourism industry, including research, marketing support, and co-op advertising programs.
Local First Arizona has dedicated programs that support local food producers, farmers, and food-related businesses through initiatives like the Good Food Finder AZ.
The AzLTA is a trade association that advocates for and provides resources to businesses in the lodging and tourism industry, including hotels, resorts, and attractions.
This grassroots organization advocates for and supports Arizona’s agricultural industry through policy initiatives, educational programs, and member services.
Certification & Branding Programs
The DBE program helps eligible small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals compete for federally funded transportation contracts.
As a regional partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), WBEC-West provides certification for women-owned businesses in Arizona, opening doors to corporate and government contracting opportunities.
The SBA’s VetCert program provides certification for veteran-owned and service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses, giving them access to federal contracting set-asides.
While focused on overall veteran well-being, the Be Connected program can connect veteran entrepreneurs with resources and support networks that can aid in their business endeavors.
Through its extensive network and “Buy Local” campaigns, Local First Arizona provides a strong branding platform for its members, helping them connect with consumers who are passionate about supporting local businesses.
Free Tools for Arizona Small Businesses
Find out the minimum return on ad spend your business needs to break even. Just enter your costs and revenue goals to see if your ads are paying off or falling short.
Calculate the right price for your product or service by entering your cost and desired profit margin. This tool helps you stay competitive while protecting your bottom line.
See how a raise will affect your paycheck by entering your current salary and the raise percentage. This tool helps you understand the real impact of pay increases, monthly, annually, and by paycheck—so you can plan your finances with clarity.