MCbiz : i-Team
Follow MCbiz on Twitter: http://twitter.com/MCbizMaricopaCo
Connect with MCbiz via email: achagolla@mail.maricopa.gov
Thei-Team is comprised of virtual partners that work together to better assist the business community.
Maricopa County Library District E-Sources; Maricopa County Article 5 Procurement;
Maricopa County Environmental Division - Business Services; Environmental Services; Maricopa County Planning/Development
Maricopa County Community Development; Maricopa County Housing Authority; Maricopa Integrated Health System
Maricopa County Parks/Recreation; Maricopa County Stadium District; Maricopa County Department of Transportation;
Maricopa County Flood Control District; Maricopa County Facilities Management; Maricopa County Air Quality/Business Resources;
Maricopa County Public Information Office; Maricopa County Office of Public Defense Services; Maricopa County Superintendent of Schools
Maricopa Workforce Connections – MaricopaCounty
Business Services Info Sheet
Recruitment
MWC is able to provide recruitment of appropriate job applicants and provide significant levels of pre-screening services. These services not only save employers hundreds of valuable man-hours, but also translate into significant dollars saved. Some of the recruitment tools available through MWC include:
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Job postings through our Internet-based virtual recruiter;
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In-depth pre-screening/ pre-interviewing services;
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Resume;
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Reference checks;
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Soft skill assessments and soft skill development;
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Customized skills assessments including MS Office Suite assessment;
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Personality, interest, aptitude, transferable skills assessments; and
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Provide marketing and advertising for open positions to engage the most appropriate populations.
Facility
Uses include
:
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Large or small recruitments;
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On-site job recruitments;
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Employee training;
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New employee orientations;
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Group eligibility activities/trainings, etc;
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Assessments for new hires;
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Meeting space for staff meetings, chamber meetings, association meetings, etc (by reservation only);
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Interview space;
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Labor Market Information research space;
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General office functions, fax, copier, computer use, phone use, reception capabilities (limited use only); and
In addition, employers may conduct an on-site recruitments at our MWCWestValleyCareerCenter , 1840 N. 95th Ave., Ste. 160, Phoenix, AZ85037(at I-10 and Loop 101) or our MWCEastValleyCareerCenter, 735 N. Gilbert Road (at Guadalupe and Gilbert Road ). Each Center is equipped with a BusinessServicesCenter that offers employers meeting space, office equipment, interview rooms, and other resources to enhance recruiting and hiring experiences.
Employer Staff Training Opportunities
MWC has several training products available to assists employers develop their workforce. We have rolled out a new version of our
On the Job Training Program (OJT)
, which allows up to $50,000 reimbursable training costs and wages incurred during mentor-based training for current employees or new hires. And, we offer the
Employed Worker Training Program (EWTP)
, which is a classroom-based training grant for incumbent workers, also allowing a cap of $50,000 per contract.
Business Account Representatives
All MWC business customers are assigned a Business Account Representative that provides consulting needs and works one-on-one with each business to assure all workforce and recruiting products are rolled out to each business efficiently and customized to meet each entity’s needs. Further, each MWC Business Account Representative can assist in researching comparable positions, developing job descriptions, identifying comparable and local area salary ranges, conducting customized labor market research, and assisting with job seeker recruitment plans.
Locations
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Gilbert
Maricopa Workforce Connections 735 N. Gilbert Road 480.497.0350
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West
Valley
Maricopa Workforce Connections 1840 North 95th Avenue Suite 160 602.372.4200
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Since 19 08 the Tempe Chamber of Commerce has actively built an environment that enhances the economic vitality of our membership. We provide our members with the tools and means to achieve success at every level of their enterprises. Whether it’s business growth and networking, visitor assistance, the latest political updates or Tempe Chamber news, our professional, full-time staff is dedicated to providing the resources you need to succeed.
The Tempe Chamber has achieved ongoing successes in providing a progressive business atmosphere by working with local and state government and civic organizations to create a positive business atmosphere. A strong committee structure, monthly business and networking programs and a host of special events, seminars, trade shows and conferences all serve to further strengthen our membership of 1,000 members employing 74,000 people. At the Tempe Chamber, your success is our business. Only the Tempe Chamber is lobbying government officials on issues that directly impact Tempe businesses. The Chamber is also the recognized voice at state and national levels and regularly takes positions on legislation affecting the business environment. Our online presence gives us the ability to more effectively communicate these positions to the public and our membership and to inform you of the most important political issues impacting the business community. 
Maricopa County Library District @ WWW.MCLDAZ.ORG Find the right information you need in your business! What’s the Difference Between the Internet and the Library’s Databases? Reliable Information! The Library District subscribes to premium databases and provides them free to its customers. On the Internet anyone can create a Web site and the information is, at times, inaccurate or not supported by fact, or is not available in its entirety, or requires a paid subscription. Other materials, due to copyright constraints, are never published online. Library databases are well-organized, regularly updated and contain accurate and authoritative information from reputable publishers. Information you can rely on! Information in the Library’s premium databases must first go through the scrutiny of the same editing procedures as traditional, reputable print materials. It is copyrighted information that’s usually not included in search engines. This is what sets libraries apart from online services like Google and other free search engines –AND only libraries also offer the assistance of a research professional—a librarian…the ultimate search engine! Try these Databases: Business & Company Resource Center A fully integrated resource bringing together company profiles, brand information, rankings, investment reports, company histories, chronologies and periodicals. InfoTrac OneFile A one-stop source for news and periodical articles on a wide range of topics including: business, computers, economics, law, technology, and many general interest topics. Millions of full-text articles, many with images. Updated daily. Morningstar Provides data on nearly 1-million securities worldwide America's Newspapers: The Ultimate Newspaper Archive Provides full-text articles from the electronic editions for more than 600 U.S. newspapers - all in one easy-to-search database. Business & Investment Web Sites Click on Selected Web Sites on Library’s home page, then click on “Business & Investment” to see the list of Web sites selected, reviewed and approved by librarians. 24x7 ASK! - Have a question? Get an Answer!
Get answers on consumer information, business & personal finance, law and government, job hunting & careers and much more. With 24x7 Ask!, the library is always open! Ask a question online anytime–day or night--from home or office computer and get an answer from a qualified librarian. (Just click on Ask a Librarian Live Chat 24x7 ASK! on Library Web page.) What You Need to Get Started ● Current library card issued by the Maricopa County Library District. ● Personal Identification Number (PIN). To activate your account use 1234 or the last four digits of your telephone number. Once your PIN is established you can change it online. ● Click on Online Research at top of Library Web Page ● Under E-Sources Categories, click on Business and Professional Resources Harry R. Courtright,
Director / County Librarian  MaricopaSmallBusinessDevelopmentCenter The Maricopa Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is the technical assistance arm of the Small Business Administration and provides business expertise to small businesses residing in MaricopaCounty . Maricopa SBDC pertains to the larger Arizona SBDC Network and together with ten other community college districts in the state, helps sustain Arizona commerce. Ninety seven percent of the Arizona economy consists of small businesses and the SBDC provides customized training to meet the needs of business owners at no charge. The SBDC business counseling is comprehensive and together with a variety of workshops, we extend to our clients a vast education and business network to address every need for every type of business, from pre-venture to fast-growth entities. The SBDC is managed like a private sector consulting firm with eight specialized counselors. In 2006, the Maricopa SBDC assisted in creating and retaining 1,034 jobs, with over $26 million in capital formation and increased business sales of $69.8 million. The SBDC is funded by the Community College system and the Small Business Administration. It has returned $7.69 dollars to the economy for every tax dollar invested. Please visit our website at www.MaricopaSBDC.com or call us for information at 480-784-0590. We offer counseling and workshops in both English and Spanish.
Lisha Adela García is the Diversity Programs Coordinator for the SBDC and is one of 8 counselors to offer business and technical assistance in areas ranging from start-up requirements to the intricacies of technology companies. Lisha and the SBDC provide a broad array of other business counseling services including finance, accounting, marketing, sales, government procurement and business certification programs among numerous others.

Self-Employment Loan Fund (SELF) “Your Idea + Our Support = Business Success” What do you want your success story to look like? Maybe you have an idea that you want to turn into a business. Or maybe you have a set of skills that could earn you more money in a business of your own. SELF can help you turn your ideas and skills into real income. We offer training, personalized support and loans to provide you with a solid business foundation – regardless of previous business experience. Training Programs The Business Plan Workshop is the perfect place to start turning your business idea into reality. It’s also a great resource for existing businesses that either do not have a business plan or are looking to revise a dated business plan. SELF’s thorough curriculum, experienced instructors and small class sizes take the fear out of writing a business plan! SELF also offers monthly seminars, networking events, and connections to other trainings across the Valley. One-on-One and Small Group Support SELF clients can turn to us at any time for one-on-one assistance. Whatever your business status or need, we can provide the support to help you keep business moving. Topics have included financials, marketing, legal issues, and much more. Our clients also benefit from small group support. Peer groups provide ongoing education, networking and support to help you get through the challenges of starting your business. Loans As an SBA Micro Lender, SELF offers loans up to $35,000 through two loan programs. Each one is designed to suit a different stage of business. Loans of $3,000 or less do not require a credit check or collateral – a great way to get your business started and establish business credit without taking on overwhelming debt. All of our loans offer more flexible terms than traditional institutions and lower interest rates than most credit cards. A History of Serving Start-Ups During its 13-year history, SELF has answered over 10,000 business start-up inquiries and served nearly 8,000 clients. Of the 106 respondents to SELF’s 2007 annual client survey, 64 (60%) operated their business and 10 others (9%) plan to open in the coming year. These clients earned revenues totaling $3.6 million in 2006 and hired 80 new employees. Their businesses are thriving and success stories abound. One client went through the Business Plan Workshop for her construction company, won an award through SELF, and as a direct result of that award, has grown her business tremendously from the increased marketing and exposure. Another client went through the Business Plan Workshop and used a $500 loan to start a cleaning company. At a SELF Business Expo at a downtown high-rise, she met the building’s property manager and procured a major contract to clean the entire high-rise. What do you want your success story to look like? Call SELF at 602.340.8834 to find out how we can help you create your own success story.
Sonia Singh Marketing Director Self-Employment Loan Fund, Inc. (SELF) 1601 N. 7th St., Ste. 340 Phoenix, AZ 85006 (602) 340-8834 http://www.selfloanfund.org/ NEW! www.myspace.com/AZSmallBiz

Arizona Department of Commerce The Arizona Department of Commerce is your first stop for developing a successful business. It starts with 24/7 online access for start-ups and small businesses, minority and women-owned business services, and access to statewide business assistance resources. We also market Arizona globally, promote inward investment, and provide resource assistance to grow your company. We are your first contact for statewide site selection, Arizona incentive information and additional business resource assistance. Are you ready to grow? We offer workforce solutions powered by One-Stop centers throughout the state. Increase the skills of your staff through Arizona Job Training grants, or explore a custom-designed Apprenticeship. Are you a technology company? Visit our virtual Arizona Innovation Accelerator which supports technology-oriented businesses, and links them with resources and ideas from innovative leaders throughout Arizona . Are you ready to export? Our international trade office will introduce you to quality contacts at a variety of trade events around the globe and provide you with individualized counseling, trade missions, background information, the most recent statistics on trade, and current market research information. The Arizona Department of Commerce serves as the state’s clearinghouse for economic information and strategic research related to Arizona ’s economy. Also, the Arizona Department of Commerce preserves and improves the quality of life offered statewide through community development.
Arizona Minority Business Enterprise Center About AMBEC The Arizona Minority Business Enterprise Center (AMBEC) is a non-profit organization, federally funded by the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), U.S. Department of Commerce, and operated by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation. MBDA is the only Federal agency created specifically to foster the establishment and growth of minority-owned businesses in America . The AMBEC is committed to fostering the establishment and growth of minority-owned firms. What we do AMBEC concentrates on minority business enterprises (MBEs) with $500,000 or more in annual revenues that are generating significant employment and long-term economic growth. Our goal is to promote growth, expansion and competitiveness of MBEs by providing professional strategic business consulting services, opportunities and resources. We assist MBEs in the areas of financing, planning, management, marketing and also in obtaining Government procurement (contract) opportunities. Who we serve Qualifying MBEs must meet the guidelines set forth by the MBDA’s minority standards which include, but are not limited to, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, Aleuts, Asian Pacific Americans, Asians Indians, Eskimos & Hasidic Jews. AMBEC ServicesAMBEC uses telecommunications technology to dramatically increase the level of services that we can provide to minority owned firms. AMBEC provides strategic business consulting services and assistance in the following areas: Access to Capital Financial analysis and planning; loan/bond packaging, marketing. Access to Market Assistance with Certification, procurement and bidding. Franchising Assistance We provide consulting and referrals to help you create wealth through franchising. International Trade Product evaluation for exporting; Foreign strategic marketing plan; export cost and pricing; Logistics; Distributor search and product preparation for exporting. Procurement Opportunities AMBEC has developed an expansive network of strategic partners to provide greater opportunities and resources to its clients. AMBEC actively promotes individual minority businesses to these networks that include various Chambers of Commerce, business and trade associations, corporations, as well as to state and local government agencies. Businesses-to-Business Linking Through Business-to-business Linkage Forums, we directly link MBEs to opportunities. In addition, we assist firms identify potential business partners to jointly pursue a contract, and share the financial rewards. TuckSchoolof Business Each year we sponsor a potential strategic growth MBE to attend an executive education class at the prestigious Tuck School of Business. Additional Benefits: AMBEC provides referrals, and potential partnership opportunities. 
Alika Kumar, Director: 62-294-6087 Business Consultants Ed McCartney: 602-294-6088 Gustavo Costales: 602-294-6089 Assistant/Certification Specialist: Alex Meraz, 602-248-0007 ArizonaMinorityBusinessEnterpriseCenter 255 E. Osborn Road, Suite 202; Phoenix, AZ85012 Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. AuthorAlika Kumar, Project Director A Phoenix resident for 25 years, Alika earned an MIM from Thunderbird (AGSIM), and an MBA from ASU. With over 16 years of experience in the service industry which includes consulting for local and international businesses, teaching business courses, and working for the state and federal governments. Alika’s business experience includes conducting research; developing competitive business intelligence, market entry strategies; demand analysis in domestic and international markets, analysis of political risk for international ventures. Alika is an artist in her spare time.
U.S. Small Business Administration The U.S. Small Business Administration is an agency of the federal government whose mission is to assist and protect the interests of small business concerns and to maintain and strengthen the overall U.S. economy. The 26 million small businesses in the country are the engine that drives America ’s economy They are essential to our economic health and our national efforts to keep the United States competitive in today's global marketplace. In essence, SBA helps Americans start, build and grow businesses. Established in 1953, the agency assists small business owners by: - acting as their advocate before Congress and federal regulatory agencies to help ease the burden of federal regulations on small businesses - guaranteeing loans to banks to help make bankers more comfortable in lending to small businesses because with the guarantee, they know the government is there to help cover losses in the case of default - offering free one-on-one business counseling through partners across the nation - assisting small businesses in offering their goods and services to the federal government - helping businesses and families recover from disasters With offices in every state, the SBA last year guaranteed over $16 billion in small business loans and helped small businesses secure over $50 billion in federal contracts. In Arizona alone, SBA guaranteed $1.1billion in loans and this figure grows steadily every year as the sixty participating SBA lenders across the state increasingly provide capital to small businesses. SBA loan programs help make capital available to small businesses that might not otherwise be able to obtain a commercial loan. Our three main loan programs include the 7(a) program which allows small businesses to borrow up to $2 million for a wide variety of business uses including working capital, business debt refinance and real estate. Our 504 program allows businesses to borrow up to $10 million for fixed asset purchases such as real estate or major pieces of equipment with an equity injection of as little as 10 percent. SBA’s microloan program allows loans up to $35,000 with credit and collateral requirements that may be less stringent than those of a commercial lender. With a network of partners throughout the state, SBA offers free business counseling and training opportunities. Through SCORE, SmallBusinessDevelopmentCenters and Women’s Business Centers, small business get the advice they need to succeed. SCORE is a national organization of volunteers, many of whom are retired industry executives and former small business owners who are great mentors. Our eleven Arizona Small Business Development Centers are affiliated with community colleges and also offer free counseling. In addition, there are two Women’s Business Centers in the state that offer training and counseling, and are also microlenders. At www.sba.gov/az SBA offers a virtual online business school with free business classes on all manner of topics related to business, from developing a business plan, to financing, to marketing. Recently the SBA joined forces with Donald Trump and TrumpUniversity to offer the free class “How to Start a Business on a Shoestring Budget.” (See www.sba.gov under the “Training” icon.) SBA’s 8(a) business development program is designed to assist economically and socially disadvantaged small businesses compete for federal contracts. SBA certifies such companies to compete for up to nine years for federal procurement funds set aside expressly for certified businesses. One of the key challenges facing small businesses is lack of planning. Too many entrepreneurs start a business driven by faith in a good idea and passion. Unfortunately, that’s too often a prescription for failure. Our counseling system is designed to help those in business, or just starting out, avoid that pitfall by assisting them in the development of what we consider to be the fundamental document of any business, a business plan. Simply put, the plan is the businesses’ road map to the future. The business plan answers such important questions of how much money is needed, how the business will market itself and to whom, and in what space in the marketplace will the business compete and with whom. According to lenders, the business plan is the single most important document in the consideration of a loan. If done right, it contains well developed financial statements based on sound assumptions that will assure a banker that the business has a chance to succeed and the ability to service a loan. For further information about SBA’s programs and resources call 602-745-2000, or visit us on the web at www.sba.gov/az. As the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Senior Area Manager for Southern Arizona , Stephen Hart oversees federal efforts to help entrepreneurs start, grow and succeed in small business. He coordinates SBA’s marketing and outreach efforts, works with lenders and with SBA’s resource partners - SCORE, SmallBusinessDevelopmentCenters and WomenBusinessCenters .
He brings experience from both the private sector and government to the job. In government, Hart held senior management positions in the White House, the U.S. Department of Transportation and the U.S. Department of State. His private sector work included stints in the telecommunications industry and with America ’s major freight railroads. He resides in Tucson with his wife and two sons.  Formerly known as the Small Business Environmental Assistance Program (SBEAP), the Business Resource Division's primary purpose is to assist small businesses that are, or will be, subject to requirements under the Federal 1990 Clean Air Act Amendment. For small businesses and activities that may require an air quality permit, the Business Resource Center can provide permit application assistance, on-site compliance information, education, training, and pollution prevention technologies. Maricopa County Air Quality Department BusinessResourceCenter Assistance Programs The BusinessResourceCenter ’s Assistance Programs provide technical assistance, guidance, education and outreach to area business owners to assist in understanding air quality regulations, and aid their efforts to reduce emissions and comply with Department rules. Services Provided (all services can be reached by calling (602) 506-5102) - Permit Assistance Helpline
- Courtesy Site Visits
- Industry Seminars and informal “Brown Bag” discussions
- Technical Information Presentations
- Permitting and Compliance Technical Guidances
Permit Assistance Helpline Starting or expanding a new small business or buying an existing small business? Many small business owners may not have the technical expertise and financial resources to hire a consultant to help them through the regulatory process. The MaricopaCountyAirQualityDepartmentBusinessResourceCenter ’s Permit Assistance Helpline provides small businesses with valuable assistance in understanding and preparing air quality permit applications and complying with regulations. A call to the Helpline connects you to a technical advisor who will get you the answers you need quickly and efficiently. The technical advisor will answer questions about permitting requirements for your particular operation, including applicable regulations, record keeping, and more. If you need additional technical assistance, a Courtesy Site Visit by a technical advisor can be arranged. Courtesy Site Visits If you would like one-on-one attention, an Air Quality technical advisor will visit with you and review your permit conditions, or assist you in completing permit applications. The site visit provides an opportunity to discuss regulations and policies, and to receive assistance in setting up your own self-inspection program. We will work with you to resolve questions or issues arising from applicable regulations or permit conditions. You will be made aware of Department expectations and how to achieve and maintain compliance. Courtesy site visits are advisory and do not replace regular compliance inspections. Industry Seminars and informal “Brown Bag” discussions MaricopaCountyAirQualityDepartmentBusinessResourceCenterholds monthly IndustrySeminars and informal “Brown Bag” discussion for selected industry categories and topics. The seminars provide business operators with extensive information on how to comply with air quality regulations in an informal atmosphere conducive to frank give-and-take discussions outside of the regulatory arena. Technical Information Presentations Maricopa County Air Quality Department Staff will make technical presentations to Trade Associations and Source Category Groups who want to know more about air quality matters and requirements. Topics can be tailored to your specific industry or business. You can request a presentation for your group function by calling the Compliance Assistance Program. Permitting and Compliance Technical Guidances The Department offers a series of technical guidances and simplified “Q & A” documents to assist small businesses in understanding regulatory requirements BusinessResourceCenterMaricopaCounty Air Quality Department 602 506-5102 Fax 602 372-0997  NAWBO – Phoenix Metropolitan Chapter The Phoenix Metropolitan Chapter of National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) is building a legacy for women-owned businesses. The chapter was established in 1985 and has quickly emerged to place among the top 10 national chapters.
As part of a national organization, our Chapter is the voice representing our local share of America 's 10.6 million women-owned businesses. NAWBO was first founded in 1975 with a mission to help women evolve their businesses by sharing resources and providing a single voice to shape economic and public policy. NAWBO is the only dues-based national organization representing the interests of all women entrepreneurs in all types of businesses. The organization is unique in the way it connects people. Because there are chapters of NAWBO in almost every metropolitan area, members benefit from relationships across the United States . Additionally, NAWBO is also represented in 33 countries across the world through its affiliation with Les Femmes Chefs d' Enterprises Mondiales (World Association of Women Entrepreneurs) providing members with the remarkable opportunity to make global connections. NAWBO's strength comes from the diversity of its membership – all sizes from sole proprietorship to hundreds of employees; every industry from construction, importers, retailers to service providers-and in all areas of the country. With more than 300 members, the Phoenix Metropolitan Chapter is raising the bar in creating distinctive programs and benefits. Under dedicated leadership, our Chapter strives to bring prosperous business opportunities and educational resources to its members. With monthly luncheons and numerous networking events, our members are constantly presented with opportunities to connect with each other and grow as professionals and leaders. The results of our programs, such as the Mentoring Program, are receiving national attention and praise. Some of the key Phoenix Metropolitan Chapter benefits include: Awards & Recognitions, Monthly Meetings, Bi-Weekly E-communications and Quarterly Printed Newsletters , Advertising Discounts, Committee Involvement and Leadership Development, Increase Circle of Influence, Community Alliances & Diversity Connection, Corporate Partner Participation, Education, Marketing Opportunities, Marketplace Tables at Monthly Luncheons, Directory, Website Resource and Online Directory, Mentor Program, NAWBOards Small Group Networking, Social Networking, Public Policy Participation. NAWBO also has a 501C(3) charitable arm, Women’s Enterprise Foundation (WEF) to raise fund and provide various educational grants and scholarship for women. To learn more visit online www.nawbophx.org. A comprehensive calendar of events and activities is listed on our web site. BIO - Choo Tay, CEO/President, media88, Inc. Choo Tay is the founder/president of media88, Inc. established since 1995. media88 is an award-winning interactive marketing and web development firm. Tay was among the very few Arizona pioneers in the web design industry in those days. One of her earliest projects was the coordination, design and hosting of the Super Bowl Cheerleaders website - selected by the NFL Super Bowl XXX Host Committee. Tay has over 20 years of arts and marketing experience and has helped clients to grow their businesses through internet marketing and technology. Tay is recognized by numerous organizations and media for her personal achievements and community involvement. Some of her leadership involvement include: Council member of the Governor’s Council on Small Business, President of NAWBO Phoenix (National Association of Woman Business Owners), and NAWBO national board of directors. www.media88.com

ASUTechnopolis Formed in late 2003, ASU Technopolis is a key contributor to the Greater Phoenix economic development community, offering targeted entrepreneurial education, coaching, and networking opportunities to prospective innovators and entrepreneurs. This innovative program is a high impact initiative to move research in technology and the life sciences into the private sector and enhance Greater Phoenix’s competitiveness in the international economic arena ASU Technopolis is a convener - connecting people into the University, and those within the University to the community at large. The primary goal of the program is to contribute to the establishment of technology and life science firms in the region, and assist in the recognition of Greater Phoenix as an internationally-known center of science innovation and commercialization. A combination of targeted entrepreneurial education, coaching, and networking is producing results that will fuel business expansion, job growth, and greater prosperity for the people of Arizona for many years to come. Terree Parlett Wasley Bio
Terree Parlett Wasley is the Director of Entrepreneurial Services and the ASU Technopolis Program for ArizonaStateUniversity . Prior to joining ASU, Ms. Wasley was the Vice President for Economic Development with the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, where she directed several business retention and expansion programs, including the Arizona Venture Capital Conference. Before joining the Chamber, she spent five years as District Director and Senior Policy Advisor for U.S. Representative Matt Salmon (R-AZ). Prior to working for the Congressman, Ms. Wasley spent ten years in Washington, D.C., where she was an economic consultant specializing in health care, the federal budget, and tax issues; and an economist for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Her economic analyses have been published by numerous public policy organizations and economic journals, and she is the author of a book on health care reform. She is an alumnus of ArizonaStateUniversity . ASU Technopolis contact info: Phone: (480) 727-9010 Fax: (480) 965-2221 Email: ContactUs@asutechnopolis.org Street Address: 699 South Mill Avenue 6th Floor Tempe, AZ85281 Mailing Address: ArizonaStateUniversity ASU Technopolis P.O. Box 877205 Tempe , AZ 85287-7205 www.asutechnopolis.org

City of Mesa Library – Sandy Rizzo, Business/Government Documents Librarian Good information is vital when starting or running a business. Decisions involve much time and/or money, and those investing these hard-earned commodities need to rely on timely and accurate information when moving forward. Business owners of today and tomorrow will find information in a wide range of formats at the City of Mesa Library . They’ll also find expert reference assistance to help make their business venture more successful. The library will benefit anyone at any stage of the business cycle. City of Mesa Library puts people and information together! City of Mesa Library carries books and other published materials on sales, marketing, business plans, strategic planning, negotiation, customer service, business law, taxes, hiring and management, accounting, training, guidance on running specific types of businesses, and leadership. Entrepreneurs and those working for others in the business world can hone their skills and build their knowledge by checking out materials for detailed study. The library carries a host of in-house reference books and directories featuring financial data and contacts (manufacturers, distributors, other businesses). The City of Mesa Library is a Federal Depository Library and as such, receives a wealth of government information. Anyone can search all library holdings and reserve items that check out by using the library catalog at www.mesalibrary.org. Electronic databases offer immense help when researching business leads, the competition, industry trends, and data; the library subscribes to many informational databases including Reference USA, Business and Company Resource Center, The Arizona Republic, regional newspaper databases, and many others for research. Databases contain articles from newspapers and trade journals, information from reference books, and business directory listings. To spotlight one of these: the Reference USA business directory contains information on more than 14 million US businesses. It is helpful for finding business leads, allowing one to limit a search by business type (NAICS/SIC code) zip code, county, area code, employee size, revenue, and more. Information about businesses includes annual sales, primary lines of business, contacts, maps, radius of nearby businesses, and detailed corporate information. The library are available at no charge from any Internet-accessible computer – all that’s needed is a City of Mesa library card and PIN number. Cards are free to those living in MaricopaCounty . Just a few of the library databases are for in-house use only. Another electronic offering: the library’s homepage links to many useful business websites including the Census for demographics, vital to anyone running a business and determining their market. Other links are to local agencies that support those researching a business idea or registration. Although we can’t do the research for you, librarians at all three City of Mesa Library branches can point users in the right direction with their business research, sharing suggested sites, books, and reference tools appropriate to the need. Guides for various topics are available on the library’s business page (http://www.mesalibrary.org/research/business.aspx). However, times strike when a client has no idea how to proceed. At these times, people can ask to speak with Sandy Rizzo, Business Librarian at the Main Branch, for a sense of where to look, how to use a particular database, or for referrals to helpful non-profit business assistance agencies. The City of Mesa Library has three locations to serve customers – the Main Branch at 64 E. First St. near Center, north of Main Street near Downtown; the Dobson Ranch Branch, 2425 S. Dobson Road south of the US 60 between Baseline and Guadalupe, and the Red Mountain Branch at 635 N. Power Road north of University. Library hours: Main Library is open Monday – Thursday 10am-9pm, Friday and Saturday 10am-5pm, and Sunday 1-5pm. Library hours at the branches: Monday and Thursday 10am-6pm, Tuesday and Wednesday, 10am-9pm, and Friday and Saturday 1-5pm.
Author bio: Sandy Rizzo has been Business Librarian for City of Mesa ’s Main Branch since 1997 and Federal Documents Librarian since 2004. She’s a graduate of the Master’s program in Information Resources and Library Science at the University of Arizona , and she holds an undergraduate degree in Broadcast Communications from LoyolaUniversity in Chicago . THE ELITE SDVOB NETWORKTHE ELITE SDVOB NETWORK 1629 E. Jefferson Street Phoenix, AZ. 85034 Cell: (602) 301-3035 - Fax (480) 460-0856 Office: (602) 535-5694-Fax (602) 281-6084 www.dvbeaz.org “Helping Other Vets Help Themselves” July 30, 2007 Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business Arizona Chapter (501 C-19 Non-Profit) SDVOB Business Advocate Rogelio (Roy) Bautista is the Vice-President of the SDVOB Arizona Chapter. He is responsible for enhancing, promoting, advocating, and overseeing the organization’s proactive Strategic Plan for advancing the growth of Veteran Owned Business and SDVOB’s Enterprises in Arizona . Roy Bautista oversees “The Elite SDVOB Network Diversity Development staff and is actively recruiting and advocating within the various corporate communities (APS, SRP, Boeing, Talley, Raytheon, Southwest Gas, Maricopa County, MC biz, Perini) and diverse business organizations that engage in Supplier Diversity Programs, including Small Business Enterprises (SBEs) Minority-Owned Businesses (MBEs), Women-Owned Businesses (WBEs), Corporate Supplier Teams, and Municipal Contracting Teams. He consistently is networking, synergizing, and building alliances with the Grand Canyon Minority Supplier Development Council (GCMSDC), the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development, Minority Business Enterprise Center (MBEC), Small Business Administration (SBA), Associated Minority Contractors of Arizona (AMCA), Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services, Arizona Super Bowl XLII Host Committee, Arizona Department of Commerce, Chicanos Por La Causa (CPLC), Arizona State University Diversity, Small Business Programs, Maricopa Community Colleges Small Business Development Center, United Latino Business Coalition, and the Offices of Arizona US Senator John Mc Cain and Arizona Congressman Harry E. Mitchell. Roy Bautista serves as Vice-President for the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC Council # 361), and he volunteers for the Red Cross AZ Chapter.
Roy Bautista served in the United States Marine Corps and retired from the United States Army Reserve as a Captain in the Ordnance branch with 25 years of service. He served two tours in Desert Storm in 1991. He is the recipient of the Bronze Star and the Ordnance Order of Samuel Sharpe. Roy Bautista is the Vice-President of Operations for Vanguard Risk Management. He is a Certified Indoor Environmental Consultant and is Board Certified by the Council of Engineering and Scientific Specialty Board (CESB) with a background in Mechanical Engineering. Roy Bautista has managed large, diverse, and technical-oriented projects in microelectronics for Intel, Jacobs Engineering, UMA Engineering, Chevron in Petrochemical Industries, and is a former OSHA Compliance officer. Patriot Express Program (SBA): The program, designed specifically for veterans, is aimed at assisting those in business or considering a startup. It offers fast turnaround time for loan approvals, funds available up to $500,000 and the lowest interest rates the SBA offers for business loans. Call 602-745-7200 for participating lenders in Arizona and see further program details at www.sba.gov/patriotexpress/index.html. SmallBizU (SBDC): SmallBizU is the first online academy created especially for small businesses and entrepreneurs. The largest collection of entrepreneurial training courses available on the Internet, it delivers a utilitarian curriculum that provides small businesses with real-world tools and information. Please go to www.smallbizu.org/azmaricopa/ for more information. Neighborhood Economic Development Corporation (NEDCO)is a private, nonprofit, whose mission is to finance and stimulate, through development services and technical assistance, community economic development opportunity in low and moderate income communities of Arizona. Terry Benelli Executive Director Terry Benelli became the new Executive Director of Neighborhood Economic Development Corporation effective April 2007. Ms Benelli was promoted from Business Manager of NEDCO. As Executive Director, Ms Benelli oversees day to day operations at NEDCO. She works closely with the Board of Directors to accomplish the goals and objectives for the CDFI (Community Development Financial Institution). Terry states that her mission is “to advance the collaborative partnership between private and public sectors, to meet community reinvestment and community development goals in Mesa, other communities of the East Valley and the entire state of Arizona.” Ms. Benelli has been a community activist in Mesa for over twenty years. The previous Executive Director of NEDCO, Karen La France, confirms that “Terry’s involvement with the community will be a perfect fit to further NEDCO’s objectives.” Neighborhood Economic Development Corporation is a private, nonprofit, 501(c)(3) whose mission is to finance and stimulate, through development services and technical assistance, community economic development opportunity in low and moderate income communities. 567 West 10th Street Mesa, Arizona 85201 Phone: 480-969-1093 FAX: 480-275-2849 http://www.nedco-mesa.org/ 
The Arizona Technology Council is the largest member-driven technology association in Arizona serving all tech sectors across the state. The AZ Tech Council represents the interests of over 235,000 employees across more than 500 of the leading technology companies, their support firms, educational institutions and state-wide economic development groups that collectively form Arizona’s technology community. Represented industries include advanced manufacturing, aerospace, biotechnology, e-learning, environmental technology, software, Internet applications, semiconductors, and telecommunications. Through support and unification of both its members and partners, the AZ Tech Council seeks to grow Arizona’s economy, specifically as it relates to technology and innovation. The Arizona Technology Council drives partnerships, policies and programs that advance the business climate for Arizona’s technology community in order to ensure Arizona’s ranking as a top-tier technology state.
TechConnect Magazine, TechTerra, the Arizona Technology Council Foundation, SonoraTech, the Governor’s Celebration of Innovation and TechTalent Repository are all strategic initiatives the Arizona Technology Council is dedicated to implement and institutionalize. For more information, please visit the AZ Tech Council website at The Arizona Technology Council is the largest member-driven technology association in Arizona serving all tech sectors across the state. The AZ Tech Council represents the interests of over 235,000 employees across more than 500 of the leading technology companies, their support firms, educational institutions and state-wide economic development groups that collectively form Arizona’s technology community. Represented industries include advanced manufacturing, aerospace, biotechnology, e-learning, environmental technology, software, Internet applications, semiconductors, and telecommunications. Through support and unification of both its members and partners, the AZ Tech Council seeks to grow Arizona’s economy, specifically as it relates to technology and innovation. The Arizona Technology Council drives partnerships, policies and programs that advance the business climate for Arizona’s technology community in order to ensure Arizona’s ranking as a top-tier technology state. TechConnect Magazine, TechTerra, the Arizona Technology Council Foundation, SonoraTech, the Governor’s Celebration of Innovation and TechTalent Repository are all strategic initiatives the Arizona Technology Council is dedicated to implement and institutionalize. For more information, please visit the AZ Tech Council website at www.aztechcouncil.org <http://www.aztechcouncil.org/> 

Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Supportive Services Program The Supportive Services Program is designed to assist qualified minority and woman-owned businesses to become certified as Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) firms. Once certified, the program strives to assist those DBE firms to become self-sufficient in their respective industry. Many types of assistance and training is offered to DBE companies by the Supportive Services Program to achieve this self sufficiency. Take a look at the brochure or call the Supportive Services staff if you have any questions. Contact People: Ralph (Gonz) Gonzales DBE Supportive Services Program Manager Phone 602.712.7761 Fax 602.712.3711 Vacant
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