Arizona: Innovation Thrives Here

The Arizona Innovation Challenge (AIC), one of the largest business plan competitions in the U.S., helps early-stage ventures grow by promoting innovation and technology in Arizona. All applicants receive feedback on their business plans from seasoned judges. Semifinalists join Venture Raise, a twelve-week hybrid accelerator preparing startups for funding. Ten finalists are awarded $100,000 and enter Venture Scale, a six-month program with personalized support and one-on-one mentorship from ACA Entrepreneurs-in-Residence.

The Arizona Commerce Authority’s Venture Start, Venture Raise and Venture Scale were developed to support startups who are ready to take their business to the next level. To participate in either Venture Raise or Venture Scale, startups must apply to the Arizona Innovation Challenge (AIC). Venture Start is a virtual introduction to the Arizona's entrepreneurial ecosystem tailored to the needs of early-stage startups. Venture Start also hosts delegations to showcase Arizona's resources and talent, establish connections and support the relocation to startups to the state.

Plug and Play accelerateAZ, a program of the Arizona Commerce Authority, was established to connect startups to corporations and develop pilots that provide innovative solutions for corporate teams and allow a founder to test their emerging technology. As a steadfast commitment to grow on the state’s startup ecosystem, Plug and Play accelerateAZ has launched two initiatives: the accelerateAZ Manufacturing program and the accelerateAZ Sustainability program.

The Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) competitive programs fund startups and small businesses across technology sectors to stimulate technological innovation.

The Arizona Commerce Authority's Small Business Checklist is a free interactive tool designed to guide in-state and out-of-state startups and small businesses needing licensing information. The checklist also includes contact information for statewide resources and assistance to accelerate business growth.

The Small Business Academy equips small businesses across the state with the knowledge to scale their business. The Arizona Commerce Authority works with experienced and successful business owners to share their insights and strategies with entrepreneurs and SMBs. These courses are often out of reach and the Academy aims to provide the resources and close the knowledge gap completely free of charge.