Why Now is the Time for Black Entrepreneurs in Arizona to Rise!

With the application deadline just days away, Local First Arizona is encouraging Black entrepreneurs across Arizona to apply now for its free We Rise Business Accelerator before applications close on June 7, 2026. The six-month program provides business owners with expert guidance, mentorship, and practical tools to help grow and scale their businesses. The upcoming cohort will be offered virtually, making it accessible to entrepreneurs throughout Arizona, including those in rural and underserved communities.

Small business owners in Arizona 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 the state.

The upcoming cohort will be offered virtually, making it accessible to entrepreneurs 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.

“This program is designed to remove barriers to high-quality business support and ensure that Black-owned businesses in Arizona have the tools and connections they need to thrive," said Carmen Attikossie, the program's Senior Manager.

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 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 submit their applications before the June 7 deadline.

Interested entrepreneurs can learn more and apply by June 7, 2026 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.