diversity accelerator, Economic Development, Government, Governor Katie Hobbs

Millionaire Mastermind Academy announces Arizona State Governor Katie Hobbs Proclaims January 16, 2024 ‘ImpactAZ Day’

PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Millionaire Mastermind Academy today announced that In a commendable acknowledgment of the remarkable efforts and commitment to fostering economic development and opportunities for underserved business populations, Arizona State Governor Katie Hobbs has officially declared January 16, 2024, as "ImpactAZ Day."

ImpactAZ 2025, which provides minority entrepreneurs with technical assistance, mentoring, public and private business exchange opportunities, and access to capital to increase readiness for contracting opportunities, graduated its inaugural class of 2023 on January 16, 2024, at Arizona Public Service [APS], presented by title sponsor JPMorgan Chase & Co.

ImpactAZ year-1 milestones include:

* $2M in Secured Contracts

* Business Operations Expansions by 40%

* $300,000 Capital Funding Allocated

* 80% Registered as a Diverse Supplier

* 22% Hired Staff

Governor Hobbs recognizes the pivotal role played by the Millionaire Mastermind Academy program, ImpactAZ - in advancing economic growth through innovative public and private collaborations. The proclamation highlights the organization's dedication to creating a supportive environment for minority-owned businesses, thereby contributing significantly to the overall prosperity of the state.

ImpactAZ has consistently demonstrated a commitment to building bridges between the public and private sectors to enhance opportunities for entrepreneurs facing barriers to success. Through strategic initiatives and programs, the organization has become a driving force for inclusive economic development.

ImpactAZ has been instrumental in facilitating collaborations, providing resources, and implementing initiatives that empower entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds. The organization's emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion has set a precedent for fostering a thriving business community that reflects the rich tapestry of Arizona.

"We are deeply honored by Governor Hobbs' proclamation of 'ImpactAZ Day.' It underscores the importance of our mission and the collective effort required to create lasting change in the business ecosystem," said Dr. Velma Trayham, Millionaire Mastermind Academy CEO / ImpactAZ Creator. "We extend our gratitude to the Governor for recognizing the significance of our work and look forward to continued partnerships that drive economic growth for all."

For more information about ImpactAZ and its initiatives, please visit https://impactaz2025.com/

About ImpactAZ:

ImpactAZ 2025 is a multi-year supplier-diversity accelerator that provides minority entrepreneurs with technical assistance, mentoring, public and private business exchange opportunities, and access to capital to increase readiness for contracting opportunities. Our fundamental objective is to decrease the racial wealth gap, using entrepreneurship as an engine.

Related link: https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/

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Business, Celebrity Chef Celeste, Regional Events, Restaurant, Hotel and Hospitality, Simply Celeste's

Simply Celeste’s Unveils ‘A Taste of Luxury’: A Black-Tie Affair, in Phoenix

PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Simply Celeste's is proud to present "A Taste of Luxury": A Black Tie Affair in Phoenix, Arizona promising an unparalleled experience in culinary excellence, high-end fashion, craft cocktails, exotic vehicles, and live music. The event will be held March 16, 2024.

As the demand for exclusive and immersive experiences continues to rise, "A Taste of Luxury" emerges as a trendsetter in the Food and Beverage catering industry. In a world where discerning individuals seek unique and memorable experiences, their inaugural event will set the stage for a new standard of gratification.

"At Simply Celeste's, our vision is to provide an exquisite experience that rises above traditional expectations. 'A Taste of Luxury' is a manifestation of our commitment to offering nothing but the best," said Celeste Telley, CEO and Founder of Simply Celeste's. "We invite you to join us for a night that combines culinary artistry, luxurious ambiances, and entertainment while creating memories that last a lifetime."

"A Taste of Luxury' aligns with the growing trend of seeking creative and dynamic events," says brand strategist, Reshauna Striggles. "In the current market luxury is defined by personal experiences, this event raises the bar for those who appreciate the finer things in life."

Reserve your ticket today for "A Taste of Luxury" and prepare for a night that leaves the ordinary behind.

Guests will arrive at a transformed Private Jet hangar in Scottsdale to indulge in an expertly crafted menu featuring culinary masterpieces such as Seafood Dip Bruschetta, Zesty Chicken Skewers, Grilled Filet Mignon, Cajun Lobster Tail, and Simply Celeste's White Chocolate-Raspberry Cheesecake. The gastronomic journey will be complemented by curated craft cocktails and wine pairings, promising a symphony of flavors to delight the senses.

Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/taste-of-luxury-gala-black-tie-affaire-tickets-802173000037 for ticket information and details.

A portion of event proceeds will be made as a charitable donation to benefit Millionaire Mastermind Academy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and a proud partner in "Seeking to End Poverty Through Entrepreneurship."

Event Information Contact: Celeste Talley - Celeste@simplycelestes.com - email preferred.

About Simply Celeste's:

Simply Celeste's is a premier purveyor of luxury experiences, dedicated to curating events that redefine sophistication around meals. With a commitment to excellence, Simply Celeste's offers a range of services from gourmet catering to exclusive event planning. Our mission is to provide moments of pure indulgence, leaving a lasting impression on those who seek the epitome of luxury living.

For more information, visit https://www.simplycelestes.com/ or follow us on https://www.instagram.com/simplycelestes.

Related link: https://www.simplycelestes.com/

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Business, Economic Development, Government, Real Estate

ImpactAZ 2025 documents economic strides of statewide supplier-diversity accelerator

PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Thinkzilla Consulting Group today announced that ImpactAZ 2025, a statewide supplier-diversity accelerator serving black and other minority business owners, has announced the results from its inaugural cohort:

* Retail owners averaged 186 new customers

* 40% of cohort companies saw an increase in revenue and strategic partnerships

* 22% of firms hired staff or management

* Companies got $200,000 in investment

* Firms secured $2M in corporate contracts

Thirty-five participants selected for the accelerator completed the program, with 75% attending all technical assistance programming.

"Cohort CEOs are seeing such strong results because of their absolute commitment to opening up new doors of opportunity for small and historically disadvantaged businesses," said Dr. Velma Trayham, who created the accelerator and whose nonprofit provides the program management. "Corporations and Government entities expect excellence in their suppliers, and these leaders are ready to deliver."

A private celebration on January 16 will mark the cohort's graduation and signal the opening of applications for the second of the accelerators, which will commence on April 23, 2024.

About ImpactAZ 2025:

Developed in response to the State of Black Business Report, which highlighted financial gaps and opportunities for diverse business owners, ImpactAZ 2025 is a state-wide three-year series of supplier-diversity accelerators, the collective goal of which is to develop 200 startup companies, see 500 firms hire additional employees and assist 50 companies in getting corporate contracts. Using entrepreneurship as an engine, its fundamental objective is to decrease the racial wealth gap and economic insecurity among minorities.

Each of the three 36-week accelerators combines live mentoring, business coaching, and networking opportunities at its technical assistance hub in Scottsdale with online education about financial management, sales, business operations, and doing business with corporations. Personalized benchmarks and KPIs undergird each cohort company's growth plan for strengthening capital readiness and operating capacity and increasing revenue.

The solutions-drive accelerator is a program of the nonprofit Millionaire Mastermind Academy, which provides technical assistance for the initiative. Collaborators include the Black Chamber of Arizona and the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

The accelerator enjoys broad corporate and community support led by JPMorgan Chase. Aventiv, Bank of America, Arizona Public Service, Salt River Project, Via West Group, American Landmark Apartments, Greater Phoenix Economic Council, the City of Phoenix, Commerce Bank AZ, SCORE, and the AIANNH Project NABEDC, operated by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation, are additional sponsors.

Learn more at https://impactaz2025.com/.

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.gpec.org/blog/regional-report-state-of-black-business-2022/

https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/

https://blackchamberaz.com/

https://www.azhcc.com/

Related link: https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Advertising and Marketing, Business

Black-Owned Consulting Firm Thinkzilla Celebrates 11 Years of Advancing Racial Equity and Economic Opportunity

PHOENIX, Ariz. -- For the past 11 years, CEO Dr. Velma Trayham and her team at Thinkzilla Consulting have been addressing inequality by building and managing programs with the support of public and private partnerships, advancing economic opportunities across diverse and underserved U.S. communities. In addition to the many holidays this month, Dr. Trayham and Thinkzilla, one of the fastest-growing consulting firms in the country, have a lot to celebrate.

"Entrepreneurs of color represent the fastest-growing segment of the small business market, yet they have the least access to capital, are more likely to be denied credit, and have limited access to entrepreneurial training and technical assistance that would allow them to win multi-million dollar contracts through supplier diversity and contracting opportunities. Thinkzilla is solving this problem," Dr. Trayham said. "We are proud to partner with government entities and corporations to expand access and contracting opportunities for underserved businesses. We all have a lot to celebrate this year."

A global company with offices in Atlanta, Houston, Miami, Scottsdale, and a recently opened office in Ontario, Canada, Thinkzilla is based at Arizona State University's Skysong Innovation Center and specializes in supplier diversity development, implementation of technical assistance programs, capacity-building programs and consulting to help organizations improve their social, environmental and economic programs.

President Joseph Biden recently awarded founder and CEO Dr. Trayham the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for the select few who "exhibit outstanding character, work ethic and dedication to their communities." She also joined CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion(tm) in an unprecedented commitment to advance diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

The firm's programs have supported over 8,000 underserved entrepreneurs over the past 11 years, spurring more than $400 million in economic impact and advancement for diverse businesses. During that time, Thinkzilla launched a proprietary DEI Scorecard, used by hundreds nationwide to help organizations grow diversity, equity, and inclusion. Thinkzilla also developed IMPACT AZ 2025 in collaboration with the Arizona Black Chamber, Arizona's largest technical assistance Supplier Diversity accelerator for Black entrepreneurs, which includes the support of JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, the City of Phoenix, the City of Scottsdale, and many more.

"Small businesses are the heartbeat of our economy, accounting for almost half of our GDP and employing nearly half of all private-sector workers, which is why we devote so much time and energy to supporting and sparking small business growth," Dr. Trayham added. "Over the next five years, we aim to triple our impact, creating job opportunities, expanding public and private partnerships, and helping hundreds of communities foster innovation and bridge the racial wealth gap."

About Thinkzilla Consulting Group:

Thinkzilla Consulting Group, LLC is a black and woman-owned consulting firm that helps corporate and government entities engage communities and make an economic impact. Our clients include commercial, corporate, and government entities. Thinkzilla assists financial service firms, Fortune 500 companies, and small to midsize companies in enhancing CRA efforts and providing measurable progress and success metrics.

As one of the fastest-growing consulting companies, Thinkzilla is committed to developing world-class programs and providing data-driven strategies that move our economy forward. Thinkzilla's dual headquarters are in Atlanta and Scottsdale, Arizona.

Visit https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/ to learn more.

Related link: https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/

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Business, Free News Articles

The Black Chamber of Arizona Leads Advisory Board Growth of Impact AZ 2025, Arizona’s Largest Supplier Diversity Readiness Program

PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Expanding its advisory board and impact statewide, IMPACT AZ 2025, a three-year supplier diversity readiness program designed to close the racial wealth gap for diverse business owners, is maximizing its growth strategy under the leadership of the Black Chamber of Arizona, Millionaire Mastermind Academy announced today.

"Following the successful launch of IMPACT AZ 2025, we are excited to move forward with our strategy to scale the program by including a broader range of underserved business owners," said Dr. Velma Trayham, creator of IMPACT AZ 2025 and founder of the Millionaire Mastermind Academy, a national non-profit organization with a mission to end poverty through entrepreneurship. "This growth will include more technical assistance labs across the state through partnerships, capacity for larger cohorts, and a more significant impact on Arizona's diverse small business community."

To maximize the program's statewide growth, Robin Reed, president, and CEO of the Black Chamber of Arizona, will guide the advisory board to ensure alignment with the IMPACT AZ 2025 mission and vision. While spearheading this effort, he will connect and engage contributors, help the board reach its goals, and expand its membership.

"We look forward to taking the IMPACT AZ 2025 vision to new heights, new members, and new small businesses looking to make an impact through supplier diversity," Reed said. "Our core focus at the Black Chamber of Arizona is business development, so this is a fantastic opportunity to grow entrepreneurial diversity and to help build stronger, more diverse businesses that serve all of Arizona."

IMPACT AZ 2025 is an action-focused program with a technical assistance hub at Thinkzilla Consulting Group Office, located at the Arizona State University Skysong ,3. Supplier diversity programs could add $280 billion in income and 4 million new jobs to the U.S. economy, according to a recent McKinsey & Co. report. By 2025, the initiative aims to support the growth of 250 businesses while empowering more than 500 established businesses to grow their employee base.

About IMPACT AZ 2025:

IMPACT AZ 2025 is Arizona's largest supplier diversity readiness program designed to close the racial wealth gap of black business owners through technical assistance, capital readiness, mentorship, and public and private collaboration. IMPACT AZ 2025 is a three-year business accelerator focused on supplier diversity training to grow business opportunities.

For more information, visit https://impactaz2025.com/

CITATIONS:

https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/operations/our-insights/expand-diversity-among-your-suppliers-and-add-value-to-your-organization

Related link: https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/

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Business, Economic Development, Free News Articles, Government, NonProfit and Charities

Arizona’s Largest Supplier Diversity Business Accelerator Welcomes Bank of America as New Sponsor

PHOENIX, Ariz. -- The Millionaire Mastermind Academy today announced Bank of America is its newest supporter for IMPACT AZ 2025, a three-year supplier diversity readiness program designed to close the racial wealth gap for black owned businesses. Other sponsors include the City of Scottsdale, APS, SRP and VIA West Group as well as title sponsor JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Bank of America recently provided a grant for IMPACT AZ 2025 as part of the company's commitment to delivering responsible growth to improve the financial lives of individuals, families, and entire communities.

"Closing the racial wealth gap is one of the best things we can do within Arizona's business community and having support from financial services organizations like our newest partner, Bank of America, shows the importance of such programming," said Dr. Velma Trayham, creator of IMPACT AZ 2025 and founder of the Millionaire Mastermind Academy, which manages the program.

IMPACT AZ 2025 is an action-focused program with a physical space at Arizona State University's Skysong 3 in Scottsdale to share resources for promoting stability and growth as well as supplier diversity opportunities for local businesses. Supplier diversity programs could add $280 billion in income and 4 million new jobs to the U.S. economy, according to a recent McKinsey & Co. report. By 2025, the initiative aims to support the growth of 250 businesses while empowering more than 500 established businesses to grow their employee base.

Bank of America's industry-leading supplier diversity program has been in place for more than 30 years and is proud to have one of the most recognized supplier diversity programs in the financial services industry.

"We partner with organizations like Millionaire Mastermind Academy to help us deliver on our commitment to responsible growth," said Scott Vanderpool, president, Bank of America Phoenix. "Together, we can help tackle complex societal challenges, advance racial equity and promote greater economic mobility across Phoenix by boosting entrepreneurs and small business resiliency in communities of color."

Corporations interested in supporting IMPACT AZ 2025 or learning more about the program's impact can contact info@impactaz2025.com

About IMPACT AZ 2025

IMPACT AZ 2025 is Arizona's largest supplier diversity readiness program designed to close the racial wealth gap of black business owners. Millionaire Mastermind Academy in collaboration with the Black Chamber of Arizona, IMPACT AZ 2025 is a three-year technical assistance business accelerator focused on supplier diversity training to grow business opportunities.

For more information, visit https://impactaz2025.com/

MEDIA CONTACT:

Thinkzilla Consulting Group

Nancy Davis

Info@thinkzillaconsulting.com

888-509-1145

CITATIONS:

https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/operations/our-insights/expand-diversity-among-your-suppliers-and-add-value-to-your-organization

Related link: https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/

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Business, Free News Articles, NonProfit and Charities

Arizona’s Largest Business Accelerator Program Hosted Successful Supplier Diversity Matchmaking Event Powered by JPMorgan Chase

PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Fostering new connections and diverse business growth, the Millionaire Mastermind Academy, a leading nonprofit organization that has helped more than 8,000 diverse entrepreneurs across the country, and JPMorgan Chase & Co. hosted a Supplier Diversity Matchmaking event on Aug. 7 in support of IMPACT AZ 2025. With the goal of closing the racial wealth gap for business owners through supplier diversity readiness, IMPACT AZ 2025 launched in April with its first cohort of more than 50 business owners across the valley.

The matchmaking event connected diverse business owners with public and private supplier decision-makers, including the City of Phoenix, the City of Scottsdale, APS, JPMorgan Chase & Co., SRP and Via West Group, with opportunities from the construction and facilities maintenance, finance and insurance, transportation, manufacturing and professional services industries.

Dwight Warren, executive director and market manager of Government and Not-for-Profit Banking at JPMorgan Chase, kicked off the special event. In addition, Dr. Velma Trayham, founder of the Millionaire Mastermind Academy and creator of IMPACT AZ, and Robin Reed, CEO of the Black Chamber of Commerce of Arizona, welcomed attendees and shared perspectives on the importance of greater supplier diversity.

"Arizona's largest supplier diversity readiness accelerator is already making significant progress towards our goal of advancing more than 250 diverse businesses past the $1 million threshold," said Dr. Trayham. "We are incredibly proud to demonstrate needed leadership in supporting and growing diverse business opportunities across the wonderful state of Arizona."

The solutions-driven accelerator program is expanding procurement opportunities with corporations and government entities. Fortune 500 companies spend about 2% annually on minority-owned suppliers, well short of the 10% to 15% spending goals many corporations establish.

"At JPMorgan Chase, we place ongoing emphasis on supplier partnerships and building strong and lasting relationships," Warren added. "Thanks to this commitment over the past 25 years, we are better able to serve our clients, shareholders, employees and communities more efficiently and effectively."

About IMPACT AZ 2025

IMPACT AZ 2025 is Arizona's largest supplier diversity readiness program designed to close the racial wealth gap of black business owners. Supported by the Millionaire Mastermind Academy in collaboration with the Black Chamber of Arizona, IMPACT AZ 2025 is a three-year business accelerator focused on supplier diversity training to grow business opportunities. For more information, visit https://impactaz2025.com/

About Millionaire Mastermind Academy

The Millionaire Mastermind Academy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to educate and support the growth of women-owned business enterprises, thereby strengthening the economic impact in their community. We have mentored more than 8,000 women through technical assistance & economic empowerment programs. For more information, visit https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/

MEDIA CONTACT:
Nancy Davis
Thinkzilla PR & Consulting Group
info@thinkzillaconsulting.com
888-509-1145

Related link: https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/

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Books and Publishing, Business, Entertainment, Free News Articles, Product Launches

Author Safiya Andrews Announces Her Latest Book, ‘The Awkward Art of Being: Turn Your Awkward Into Your Awesome!’

PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Safiya Andrews, an Arizona-based author, today announced the release of her latest book "The Awkward Art of Being: Turn Your Awkward Into Your Awesome!" (ISBN: 979-8988421801). Her captivating guidebook takes readers on a transformative journey through the intricacies of social interaction, embracing the beauty of awkwardness and empowering individuals to navigate the world with confidence and authenticity.

With her kaleidoscope of experiences gathered across bustling urban landscapes and radiant open spaces, Safiya Andrews has woven a tapestry of stories and insights that celebrate the unique perspectives of introverts, shy souls, and socially awkward individuals. Her path, enriched by detours through Atlanta and New York, has endowed her with a profound understanding of the human experience, which is elegantly reflected in the pages of her book.

"The Awkward Art of Being" transcends traditional self-help literature by seamlessly merging practical advice with entertainment. From decoding the enigma of small talk to mastering the art of networking, Safiya's guidance serves as a compass for those navigating the intricate maze of social dynamics. The book delves into the nuances of online interactions and offers a sanctuary of self-care rituals, including meditation and DIY skincare, nurturing the reader's journey towards self-discovery and personal growth.

"Through my own encounters and travels, I've come to realize that our awkwardness is a unique gift that shapes our authentic selves," said Safiya Andrews. "'The Awkward Art of Being' is a celebration of individuality and a roadmap for transforming what some might consider shortcomings into sources of strength. My hope is that readers will find solace, laughter, and empowerment within these pages."

With its relatable anecdotes, cultural references, and profound insights,"The Awkward Art of Being" serves as a poignant reminder that embracing one's quirks is an essential step towards embracing one's own awesome.

"The Awkward Art of Being: Turn Your Awkward Into Your Awesome!" is now available at major retailers and bookstores, including Amazon, Apple, Barnes & Noble, and Rakuten Kobo.

Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095647776341

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0C9XF84ZC/about

Related link: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095647776341

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Business, Free News Articles, Regional Events

IMPACT AZ 2025 Kicks Off Arizona’s Largest Supplier Diversity Readiness Program with More Than 50 Black-owned Businesses

PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Setting the stage for dramatic change among Black-owned Arizona businesses, IMPACT AZ 2025 is kicking off its supplier diversity readiness program to close the racial wealth gap for business owners through a three-year supplier diversity readiness program, Thinkzilla Consulting Group announced today.

The program offers a hybrid of an online curriculum through an interactive e-learning platform with in-person sessions, mentorship and live business coaching. Additionally, business owners a strategic action growth plan with benchmarks and performance targets to access the support and resources necessary to win contracts. The first cohort launches April 24, 2023, in Scottsdale, Arizona, with a full-day business assessment and welcome remarks from major community stakeholders.

The Millionaire Mastermind Academy, a leading nonprofit organization that has helped more than 8,000 diverse women entrepreneurs across the country while addressing barriers to economic mobility, will execute the Impact AZ 2025 programming in partnership with the Black Chamber of Arizona in response to the State of Black Business Report, which highlighted financial gaps and opportunities for diverse business owners.

The solutions-driven accelerator program will expand procurement opportunities with corporations and government entities, preparing business owners to win contracts. Fortune 500 companies spend about 2% annually on minority-owned suppliers, well short of the 10-15% spending goals many corporations set each year, leading to significant improvement opportunities for traditional supplier diversity approaches.

"We are thrilled to be a part of moving the great state of Arizona forward," said Dr. Velma Trayham, founder of the Millionaire Mastermind Academy. "More than 50 local businesses now have access to opportunities and resources that will create job opportunities and economic impact. I look forward to helping more than 250 companies get access to contracting readiness and opportunities. We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors, technical assistance partners, mentors and advisors for making this program possible."

JPMorgan Chase is the title sponsor for IMPACT AZ 2025, with additional sponsorship from Arizona Public Service, Salt River Project, Via West Group, American Landmark Apartments, and community partners such as Greater Phoenix Economic Council, the City of Phoenix, the Arizona Informant, Commerce Bank AZ, Growth Partners Arizona, AIANNH Project NABEDC, operated by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation and SCORE.

"Impact AZ 2025 is groundbreaking for its size and focus on Black entrepreneurs, with clearly measurable metrics focused on advancing Black-owned businesses from solopreneurship to employer-based companies that surpass the $1 million revenue threshold," said Robin Reed, CEO of the Black Chamber of Arizona. "Using data from the State of Black Business report, Impact AZ addresses the most urgent needs for Black-owned businesses today."

The Millionaire Mastermind Academy's Scottsdale office at Arizona State University's Skysong 3 will provide a physical space for entrepreneurs to meet with mentors and corporations as part of the program, which includes three nine-month accelerators. The space will also support collaboration, networking opportunities and round table discussions for business growth.

"JPMorgan Chase is profoundly committed to supporting programs that help close the racial wealth gap and uplifting our Black business and entrepreneurial community is key to achieving that goal," said Ashley Kelly, Senior Business Consultant for Chase in Arizona. "This program will deliver expertise and support to help participants scale and grow their businesses in a sustainable manner. I'm very excited about supporting this collaboration."

"This market cannot fully reach its potential while there are segments of our population underrepresented in high-wage occupations or unable to receive the requisite capital to support innovative business," said Chris Camacho, President and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council. "This initiative takes a critical step in addressing this disparity, with an actionable, solution-driven approach to leveraging regional connections to support Black-owned suppliers and businesses."

Fifty-two Arizona businesses have been accepted into the program, including:

1st Infinity Realty, LLC | 1st Step to Greatness Childcare and Learning Center | Advanced Professional Security | Agape Mortgage Group | All Are Heard Translation/Notary Service | Alla Herbs | Alyrik's Castle | Artastic Art | Beep Beep Interlock | Bri Bucks Coaching and Credit | Bridge Consulting Service, LLC | Broom Bush Tea Co. | Buddhalovmobile | Business Credit Works | Chanel Your Stylist | Citrines, LLC | Coco B Cares | Connect Consulting Solutions DNA Lifestyles, LLC | Down Syndrome Forgotten| Education FIRM, LLC | Essential IV Drip | Finance Therapy Group | Heal Me Fit | Healing Hands | Oasis Wellness Center & Apothecary, LLC | i see water LLC | Inquisicare | Jenga Haus | Kings Glow LLC| LifeologyAZ, Inc.| Lion Eye Design, LLC | Lionsmanseamoss | Live Like You Coaching, LLC | Ms. Martha's Caribbean Kitchen LLC | N-Ovate Business Solutions, LLC | PhillipRobert LLC | Phoenix Play Dates and Field Trips | Phoenix's Favorite Commercial Cleaner | Phree Tha Truth | Radiant Sky Wellness Center | Risome | Simply Celeste's | Sweeping Broom | The Outlandish Blueprint | Top Onyx LLC | TRUE CONFESSION | Vision World LLC | W3AVING W3BS | Yhorlife Inc | Zion Institute.

"This curriculum provides an opportunity for us to improve the tracking, synthesis and socialization of the actionable data for a paradigm shift in Black business owners' generational health and wealth," said Teniqua Broughton, Executive Director for The State of Black Arizona says. "I am pleased to see this collaboration taking a data-driven approach to finding solutions within our Black business ecosystem in our state for wealth building."

About IMPACT AZ 2025:

IMPACT AZ 2025 is Arizona's largest supplier diversity readiness program designed to close the racial wealth gap of black business owners. Supported by the Millionaire Mastermind Academy in partnership with the Black Chamber of Arizona, IMPACT AZ 2025 is a three-year business accelerator focused on supplier diversity training to grow business opportunities.

For more information, visit https://impactaz2025.com/

RELATED LINKS:

https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/

https://www.gpec.org/blog/regional-report-state-of-black-business-2022/

Related link: https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Business, Free News Articles, Funding and Investment

Growth Partners Arizona Expands Small Business and Nonprofit Loans to More Statewide Communities and Organizations

TUCSON, Ariz. -- Expanding to serve more businesses and communities across Arizona, Growth Partners Arizona (GPAz) is in growth mode: Thinkzilla Consulting Group Announced today The organization recently hired a new Executive Director to lead the expansion of lending programs for nonprofits and small businesses in Arizona. As a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), GPAz is dedicated to building a more inclusive economy through partnerships and collaboration.

With its focus on closing the racial wealth gap and delivering resources to underserved communities, Growth Partners Arizona is positioned to become a key capital provider in the state. Arizona has over 600K small businesses and only 14 local financial institutions. When compared to states with similar statistics, there is an unfavorable difference and in some cases the difference is a double-digit gap. GPAz's role will be critical in working collaboratively with local financial institutions to address capital needs and help to create sustainable pathways into the financial system for small businesses.

"I am excited about our growth and look forward to building strong partnerships across the state," said Growth Partners Arizona CEO Andre Whittington. "Our focus is simple: work collaboratively, build together and maintain an unwavering commitment to economic justice. We believe small businesses are our economy's heartbeat and nonprofits are our communities' lifeline."

Small businesses and nonprofits across Arizona can now access loans from $1,000 and up to $100,000 with interest rates as low as 0 percent through their KIVA Tucson Hub crowdfunding platform. Organizations including National Bank of Arizona, the International School of Tucson, Dillinger Brewing Company and the YWCA, among others, have lauded Growth Partners Arizona for providing education, a fast process, responsive support and excellent financial advice.

"As part of our growth strategy we wanted to partner with a team that could bring our brand to life" Whittington added. "We got lucky when we found the team at Thinkzilla who helped to transform our brand and capture the true essence of who we are at our core. Our strategic priorities over the next 18-24 months will be to grow intentionally, expand our lending products, and amplify our impact."

About Growth Partners Arizona:

With a mission to provide accessible, fair and responsible loans and support to Arizona nonprofits and economically underserved small businesses outside the economic mainstream, Growth Partners Arizona aims to achieve economic justice through forward-thinking, collaborative and inclusive approaches to capital access in Arizona. For more information visit https://growthpartnersaz-org.scdesdev.one/

Related link: https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022