Local First Opens Applications for We Rise Business Accelerator for Black Entrepreneurs in Sierra Vista

Small business owners in Sierra Vista have a new opportunity to grow and scale their businesses as Local First Arizona announces that applications are now open for its We Rise Business Accelerator, a free, six-month program designed to support Black entrepreneurs across Arizona.

The upcoming cohort will be offered in a virtual format, making it accessible to entrepreneurs in Sierra Vista and surrounding Cochise County communities who may not otherwise have access to intensive business training and mentorship. Classes are held once per week in the evenings, allowing for maximum flexibility for entrepreneurs.

The We Rise accelerator provides participants with hands-on support in key areas such as financial management, marketing strategy, operations, and accessing capital. Participants also gain mentorship from experienced business leaders and build connections with a statewide network of entrepreneurs.

“Entrepreneurs in Sierra Vista are vital to the region’s economic future,” said Carmen Attikossie, the program's Senior Manager. “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, We Rise has helped more than 150 Black entrepreneurs across Arizona strengthen their businesses, create jobs, and contribute to more resilient local economies. By offering the program virtually, Local First Arizona aims to expand access to rural and smaller communities like Sierra Vista—where small businesses play an outsized role in economic stability and community identity.

Local First Arizona encourages eligible business owners—from early-stage entrepreneurs to those looking to scale—to apply.

Applications are now open.
Interested entrepreneurs can learn more and apply at: https://localfirstaz.com/we-rise

About Local First Arizona
Local First Arizona is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening Arizona’s local economies by supporting small businesses, entrepreneurs, and community-based initiatives.