Celebrate Economic Development Week May 4-8
Economic development is often thought of simply as attracting new businesses, but in reality, it is much broader — and far more impactful.
At its core, economic development is about creating the conditions for a community to grow, thrive, and sustain a high quality of life. This includes supporting local businesses, attracting investment, building workforce pipelines, and ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with growth.
Southern AZ leaders
lean into Pathways
to Prosperity
The Spring 2026 Pathways to Prosperity National Institute brought together leaders from across the country April 20-22, 2026, to explore innovative strategies for connecting education, workforce systems, and economic opportunity.
Hosted as part of the broader Pathways to Prosperity movement — led by Jobs for the Future — the institute convened educators, policymakers, industry partners, and community organizations committed to preparing individuals for the future of work.
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Pima County welcomes
Taiwan delegation to
strengthen global partnerships and innovation
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Pima County joins regional leaders at water, tech, mining, and energy conference
Pima County Economic Development staff joined regional leaders and industry experts at the University of Arizona Water Resources Research Center’s 2026 Annual Conference, held April 14-15, 2026, at the University of Arizona Student Union.
This year’s theme, “Water for Tech, Mining and Energy: Pathways to Arizona’s Future,” highlighted the critical role water plays in shaping Arizona’s economic trajectory.
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Economic developers
gather in Oro Valley
for AAED conference
The Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED) brought its annual Spring Conference to Oro Valley at the Hilton El Conquistador April 15-17, 2026, convening more than 200 professionals from across the state for two days of collaboration and insight focused on strengthening Arizona’s economy.
The conference drew a diverse mix of economic development practitioners, utility providers, construction contractors, private industry leaders, and public sector partners.
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Growth Partners offering AZ Small Business Lending Academy
Growth Partners Arizona is taking a major step to strengthen small business success with the launch of its new Growth Partners Arizona Academy in partnership with the Arizona Commerce Authority. Growth Partners AZ Academy is a financial education platform designed to help entrepreneurs build confidence and prepare for capital.
The seven-week program is built as part of the organization’s broader Financial Empowerment Framework and focuses on equipping small business owners with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to make informed financial decisions. It is designed for businesses that are preparing to seek a business loan under $50,000.
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JTED seeking business partners for Interview Night
Local businesses are invited to take part in an exciting new workforce development opportunity from JTED at the upcoming Robotics & Manufacturing Interview Night on May 12, 2026, at The Bridges Campus.
Designed as a “speed job search,” this first-of-its-kind event connects students with real professionals to build skills, spark connections, and open doors to future careers.
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Follow us on LinkedIn
Keep up on the latest economic development news in the region by following the Pima County Economic Development Department on LinkedIn.
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