MAY 2024

Announcing the opening of Mesa Business Builder @ The Studios

Come join us for the grand opening of Mesa Business Builder @ The Studios! This state-of-the-art venue in downtown Mesa offers access to technology and spaces for networking, training, education, and skill building for the community. Now is your chance to see the facility and get a tour!

Mesa Business Builder @ The Studios features 17,000 sq. ft. of technology and tools including a computer lab, podcast studio with equipment, AR/VR studio and digital development zones for gaming and app development with computers, green screen and screening studio, and more. The venue includes conference rooms with video capability, event spaces, collaborative meeting areas, standard business equipment, and a snack bar area.

Mesa Business Builder @ The Studios will offer a wide variety of workshops, events, training, and education for Mesa’s businesses. It is a one-of-a-kind resource center to provide opportunities for people and businesses to grow and become more resilient. Check the website for the Calendar of Events.

It is FREE to attend the Open House on Thursday, May 23, from 3 - 5:30 p.m.

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Vice Mayor Francisco Heredia with Stardust Building Supplies

Make your Mesa business greener and save money, too!

The City of Mesa is partnering with Local First Arizona (LFA) to recognize local businesses and help them earn Arizona Green Business Certification. The process includes a consultation and site visit from LFA's sustainability team to help develop strategies to reduce a company's environmental impact, save money, and stand out in the marketplace.

Businesses answer a checklist of questions focusing on waste diversion, energy consumption, water conservation, pollution prevention, wastewater management, transportation emissions, and workplace culture. A custom plan with best practices and top opportunities for improvement and savings is developed. Participating businesses receive ongoing assistance from the LFA team to act on these opportunities.

To learn more, please contact Nick Shivka, Senior Manager of Sustainability Initiatives with Local First Arizona, by email at nick@localfirstaz.com or phone at 602-956-0909 ext. 25.

Arizona Green Business Certification helped Stardust Building Supplies in Mesa.

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Mesa Business Builder Small Business Assistance Program will open for Program Year 2024 – 2025 on July 8

Mark your calendars! The Mesa Business Builder Small Business Assistance Program has closed for this program year but will reopen on July 8. This year 165 businesses received approval and assistance through the program. Do not miss your opportunity to get FREE professional advising and consulting. To learn more visit MesaBusinessBuilder.com.

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New Podcast Series from Mesa Business Builder with the Mesa Chamber of Commerce: “Know Before You Grow”

Small businesses, mark your calendars! Mesa Business Builder @ The Studios has teamed up with the Mesa Chamber of Commerce to launch a new podcast series with expert insights and resources to help local small businesses thrive.

Each episode covers a variety of topics important to entrepreneurs and business owners. From Mesa Business Builder programs, Planning & Permitting, Business Licensing, and our newest state-of-the-art resource space, Mesa Business Builder @ The Studios. You'll hear from industry experts, successful business leaders, and professional service providers. We'll highlight tools, innovative solutions, and money-saving resources available to small businesses.

Keep an eye out for its launch and tune in!

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Mental Health in the Small Business Workplace: Prioritizing Well-Being for Success

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of prioritizing mental well-being in the workplace for small businesses. Creating an open and supportive environment, providing access to resources, offering flexible work arrangements, and implementing mental health training can foster a productive and engaged workforce. According to Unboxed Experiences, small businesses can also celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month by "hosting a mental health workshop, starting a book club focused on mental health topics, or organizing a team activity that promotes mindfulness and stress relief" (UnboxedExperiences.com). By prioritizing mental health, small businesses can cultivate a positive, thriving workplace culture that contributes to their long-term success. Investing in mental health support benefits both employees and the business. Read full article here.

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Financial Projections Webinar

Thursday, May 9 | 12 - 1 p.m. | FREE | Virtual
Register!

Looking to develop accurate financial projections is crucial for mapping out your path to profitability and success. In this insightful session, financial experts Martin Mendoza and Josue Castro will provide a comprehensive guide on how to generate reliable financial projections for your business. Learn the fundamentals of forecasting revenue, expenses, cash flow, and more.

Unlock Business Success: Discover Practical Business Strategies Webinar

Tuesday, May 21 | 9 - 10 a.m. | FREE | Virtual
Register!

Learn proven tactics to streamline operations, build a cohesive team, optimize finances, and establish a clear vision for scalable growth. Gilliland's methods help overwhelmed entrepreneurs regain control and forward momentum. This session provides strategies to renew your energy and confidently lead your flourishing business into an exciting future. Don't miss this opportunity to overcome overwhelm!

Arizona Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) Workshop

Wednesday, May 22 | 2 - 5 p.m. | FREE | In-Person
Mesa Business Builder @ The Studios
59 E 1st St, Mesa AZ 85201
Register!

Learn the ins and outs of the TPT licensing requirements and reporting for your business. Our experts will guide you through the complexities of TPT, ensuring that you have the knowledge and tools needed to navigate tax regulations effectively and keep your business compliant.

Presented by: Arizona Department of Revenue

Open House, Mesa Business Builder @ The Studios

Thursday, May 23 | 3 - 5:30 p.m. | FREE | In-Person
Mesa Business Builder @ The Studios
59 E 1st St, Mesa AZ 85201
Register!

Come see this newest resource, get a tour, and learn about the technology and tools available for your business. Whether you're a startup, an established business, or an entrepreneur, this is an excellent opportunity to explore how Mesa Business Builder can help you thrive.

Hosted by: City of Mesa Office of Economic Development

Arizona Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) Workshop

Tuesday, May 28 | 10 - 11 a.m. | FREE | In-Person
Mesa Business Builder @ The Studios
59 E 1st St, Mesa AZ 85201
Register! 

Learn how to avoid the pitfalls and common errors with filing your TPT taxes. Our expert speakers will provide practical guidance and answer your questions, helping you navigate the complexities of tax compliance with confidence.

Presented by: Arizona Department of Revenue

Using Social Media to Build Your Brand

Thursday, May 30 | 4 - 5:30 p.m. | FREE | In-Person
Mesa Business Builder @ The Studios
59 E 1st St, Mesa AZ 85201
Register!

Define your brand identity, choose the right platforms, create quality content, engage with your audience, collaborate with influencers, and authenticity. Learn how to use social media effectively and unlock its full potential for your brand. Gain insights on measuring success and adapting your approach for optimal results.

Presented by: Garren Lofgreen, Perspicuous

The Presentation Academy for Business at The Post

Tuesday, June 4 | 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | FREE | In-Person
The Post
26 North Macdonald Mesa, AZ 85201
Register!

Join New York Times bestselling author, Timothy J. Koegel, to learn how to improve your presentation style to increase your professional presence and win more business.

Presented by: Timothy J. Koegel and the City of Mesa

Next Level Workforce Development Forum

Thursday, June 20 | 3:30 – 6:30 p.m. | FREE | In-Person
Mesa Convention Center, Building B
263 North Center Street Mesa, AZ 85201
Register!

Mark Perna and RFS Results have been at the forefront of a mission to unite educators, employers, economic developers and community leaders to pave the way for passion-driven employment. 

Presented by: The City of Mesa and Mesa Chamber of Commerce

RESOURCES FOR MESA SMALL BUSINESSES