New global hub advances Arizona's semiconductor industry
The University of Arizona and National Sun Yat-sen University (NSYSU) on Sept. 2, 2026, launched a joint research and education center focused on developing new technologies to improve the performance and efficiency of the systems that power artificial intelligence and high-performance computing. The center also will train the next generation of semiconductor and photonics professionals in Southern Arizona and Taiwan.
Semiconductors are the foundation of computer chips, powering technologies that are central to modern life, industry and the global economy. Photonics uses light to transmit and process information, enabling data to move at high speeds while using less energy than traditional electrical connections.
Historic Roy Place Building to become home of Arizona-Taiwan Talent & Innovation Hub
One of Downtown Tucson’s historic buildings will take on a new role as a center for economic development, international collaboration, workforce development and innovation under an agreement approved by the Pima County Board of Supervisors.
The Board on Aug. 25 approved a memorandum of understanding between Pima County and the University of Arizona establishing the Arizona-Taiwan Talent & Innovation Hub at the County-owned Roy Place Building, 44 N. Stone Ave.
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Nominations open for
Pima County 2026 Small Business Awards
Nominations are open for the Pima County Small Business Commission 2026 Small Business of the Year Awards until September 25, 2026.
There will be awards in four categories:
- Best Customer Service
- Best Workplace
- Best Startup or New Business
- Best Community Engagement/Impact
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Arizona-Sonora Mega-Region Mission highlights cross-border opportunities
Pima County Economic Development joined business, government and economic development leaders from both sides of the border for the Arizona-Sonora Mega Region Industrial Capabilities Mission on August 20, 2026, strengthening relationships and showcasing the manufacturing, workforce and supply chain assets that make our binational region increasingly competitive.
The mission, held in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, was organized in partnership with Collectron International Services and brought together manufacturers, business leaders and economic development organizations for discussions focused on regional competitiveness, workforce, infrastructure, trade and supply chain opportunities, along with manufacturing site visits that gave participants a firsthand look at Sonora's industrial capabilities.
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Pima County prepares for next round of Opportunity Zones
The Pima County Real Estate Research Council hosted a panel discussion titled Opportunity Zones 2.0 during its quarterly meeting on Aug. 19, 2026. The panel aimed to explain the benefits of tax incentives for investments in economically distressed communities, which are identified at the census tract level and certified by the U.S. Treasury.
Pima County has 28 designated Opportunity Zones (OZ). This designation makes investments in these zones eligible for capital gains tax reductions, which can encourage investment in financially challenged areas and create new economic opportunities for the community.
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Pima County invites community to Safety and Justice Symposium
Pima County Justice Services and the YWCA of Southern Arizona invite community members to come together for the Pima County Community Safety and Justice Symposium to learn about ongoing efforts to improve the local justice system and have a voice in what comes next.
The free community event will be held September 26 at 4 p.m. at the YWCA of Southern Arizona, 525 N. Bonita Ave., at the Dr. Laura Banks-Reed Center for Gender and Racial Equity. Food and refreshments will be provided.
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TIME Magazine names the University of Arizona Center
for Innovation among Top Business Incubators
The University of Arizona Center for Innovation (UACI) was recognized as one of America's Best Incubators & Accelerators in 2026, as published by TIME Magazine, securing national recognition for its success in helping entrepreneurs launch and grow innovative science and technology companies.
The ranking spotlights the United States’ most effective entrepreneurial programs that deliver the greatest value and measurable outcomes for early-stage companies.
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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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