U of A innovation drives $459.7M
in annual economic impact for Arizona
A new independent economic impact analysis finds that Tech Launch Arizona, the University of Arizona's office for commercialization and innovation, generated $459.7 million in economic output and supported 3,070 jobs statewide in fiscal year 2025, underscoring the university's growing role as an engine of Arizona's economy.
According to the report, in fiscal year 2025 running from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, Tech Launch Arizona and TLA-linked activities generated $159.8 million in labor income and $16.8 million in state, county and municipal tax revenues.
Pima County and City of Tucson host regional contractor tour showcasing Southern Arizona’s growing development landscape
Pima County Economic Development and the City of Tucson Office of Economic Initiatives co-hosted the Pima County-Tucson Regional Contractor Tour on April 30, 2026. The full-day event brought together leading construction, architecture, engineering, and development firms from across the Southwest for a firsthand look at Southern Arizona’s most significant economic development sites and investment opportunities.
The event ran from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and drew attendees from 10 firms, including A.R. Mays, CG Schmidt, JE Dunn, Cole Architects, Farnsworth Group, Renaissance Construction, Rider Levett Bucknall, Coreslab Structures, and K2 Electric. The group represented a broad cross section of the development industry with deep expertise in logistics, advanced manufacturing, commercial construction, and public facilities.
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Pima County advances
cross-border economic development in Mexicali
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Pima County engages global companies at nation’s premier FDI conference
Pima County Economic Development Director Heath Vescovi-Chiordi attended the 2026 SelectUSA Investment Summit from May 3-6, 2026, joining economic development leaders, global companies, investors, and entrepreneurs from around the world to promote foreign direct investment (FDI) opportunities in Arizona and Southern Arizona.
Coordinated through the Arizona Commerce Authority, the summit provided a platform for Arizona communities to connect directly with international companies exploring expansion into the United States market.
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Pima County Economic Development engages Swedish mining and technology leaders
Pima County Economic Development joined the Chamber of Southern Arizona at the Arizona Sands Club for a special reception on May 7, 2026, welcoming a delegation of Swedish companies with interests in the mining industry and adjacent sectors, including advanced manufacturing, technology, and construction.
The event brought together representatives from global industry leaders such as Sandvik and Ericsson, who visited the Tucson region to explore Southern Arizona's business climate and discuss foreign direct investment opportunities. Pima County Economic Development participated to help showcase the region's competitive strengths and build relationships with prospective international partners.
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PCC programs prepare residents for high-demand careers
Pima Community College continues to expand opportunities for Southern Arizona residents seeking career advancement, workforce training, and job readiness skills by offering new programs in Optics.
The two programs prepare students for entry-level positions as optics assemblers and handlers through hands-on training. Students will master specialized techniques for identifying, handling, and cleaning delicate, high-value optical components. The first program starts August 24. Early registration is encouraged.
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Tariff refund portal is open
U.S. Customs and Border Protection has launched a IEEPA tariff refund portal, and eligible businesses can now begin submitting claims.
Local First AZ wants to make sure your business has everything you need to act quickly — refunds will be processed in the order they're received, and Phase 1 eligibility has a defined cutoff. Read through the steps below carefully and take a close look at who does and does not qualify.
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Shape the future of transportation in Pima County
Help Pima County Transportation develop a Master Plan that will guide improvements for walking, biking, driving and transit across Pima County for the next 30 years.
The Transportation Master Plan will address all 9,189 square miles of the County and include 2,200 miles of roadway, along with pedestrian, bicycle, transit, and paratransit infrastructure. This plan will help local businesses by improving mobility for all residents.
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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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