September 21 PickPima: SARSEF joins Taiwan partnership, Small business programs available, Small Business Award dea

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

masthead

September 21, 2026 - Vol. 3, No. 19

Sister school 1

Pima County, SARSEF, and Kaohsiung, Taiwan, launch global STEM partnership

Pima County Economic Development is expanding its international reach, this time, through STEM education and innovation.

Building on Pima County's and the City of Tucson’s growing relationship with Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, Pima County has helped forge a new partnership between Kaohsiung's Education Bureau and SARSEF (Southern Arizona Science, Research and Engineering Foundation), Tucson's own rigorous science and engineering education nonprofit.

READ MORE


Mexicali

Strengthening business connections: Pima County collaborates with Mexicali EDC and regional investors

Nazzer Mendez, Foreign Direct Investment and Business Attraction Manager for Pima County Economic Development, met with Mexicali EDC and regional investors in Phoenix on Sept 1, 2026. The event, hosted by Spencer Fane LLP and 258 Consulting LLC, served as a pivotal platform for collaboration.

The Mexicali EDC team offered a comprehensive overview of the Baja region’s compelling assets, including its strategic location, skilled workforce, and thriving industries. An open dialogue followed, during which Arizona’s private-sector representatives showcased their innovative products and services.

READ MORE


100000 biz

Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses coming to Arizona

Arizona small business owners have a new opportunity to take their businesses to the next level. For the first time, the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program is coming to Arizona, bringing its nationally recognized business education and support network to entrepreneurs across the state. Applications are due today!

Building on more than 15 years of impact, 10,000 Small Businesses is designed for established small business owners who are ready to grow. Offered at no cost to participants, the program combines practical business education, individualized advising and connections to a national network of fellow entrepreneurs.

READ MORE


growth partners

Growth Partners offering third cohort for 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.

READ MORE


janay headshot

Small Business Pulse

Stop losing margin to overhead

By Janay Arenas, Pima County Small Business Commission

One of the hardest lessons in business is realizing that more revenue does not always mean more profit.

A company can be busier than ever, sales can increase, and yet somehow there is less money left at the end of the month.

READ MORE


awards ribbon blue

Deadline is Friday for
Pima County 2026 Small Business Awards

The deadline is Friday for nominations 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

READ MORE


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.

FOLLOW NOW!