Staff Reports | Community Updates
Local First Arizona and Arizona’s Credit Unions have announced a statewide partnership aimed at expanding financial education, supporting small businesses and increasing access to financial services, according to a press release.
Through the collaboration, Arizona’s credit unions will support Local First Arizona programming focused on financial literacy, small business resources and outreach to rural and urban communities. Local First Arizona will incorporate credit union expertise into its initiatives and events.
Connecting Arizonans to financial opportunity
As part of the partnership, Local First Arizona will integrate credit union referral pathways into its programs, connecting municipal leaders, small business owners, entrepreneurs and consumers with information on local banking and lending services.
“Credit Unions play a critical role in keeping Arizona’s economy strong by lending to local businesses and entrepreneurs,” Kimber Lanning, CEO of Local First Arizona, said. “As the largest coalition of locally owned businesses in the country, Local First is proud to partner with Arizona’s Credit Unions to increase access to capital and financial empowerment for our small business community.”
The partnership also includes expanded financial literacy efforts, including the Loan Readiness Boot Camp. The free program offers seven virtual sessions led by a lending expert to help businesses prepare for financing. Registration for the next cohort is open through Aug. 11.
“Together, Arizona-based credit unions are united in supporting financial empowerment and community success,” Jason Paprocki, EVP of Arizona Financial Credit Union, said. “Partnering with Local First Arizona allows us to deepen our reach, amplify financial education, and create more opportunities for local businesses and families.”
