Staff Reports | Business & Commerce
Small business owners in Cochise County have a new opportunity to grow their businesses as Local First Arizona announced that applications are open for its We Rise Business Accelerator, a six-month program designed to support Black entrepreneurs across Arizona.
The program will be offered virtually, increasing access for entrepreneurs in Cochise County communities who may not otherwise have access to business training and mentorship, according to a press release. Classes are held once per week in the evenings.
The We Rise accelerator provides support in areas such as financial management, marketing strategy, operations and access to capital. Participants also receive mentorship and connect with a network of entrepreneurs across the state.
“Entrepreneurs in Cochise County are vital to the region’s economic future,” said Carmen Attikossie, senior manager of the program. “This program is designed to remove barriers to high-quality business support and ensure that Black-owned businesses in Southern Arizona have the tools and connections they need to thrive.”
Since its launch, the program has supported more than 150 Black entrepreneurs across Arizona in developing their businesses and contributing to local economies.
Local First Arizona is encouraging eligible business owners, from early-stage entrepreneurs to those seeking to scale, to apply.
