Emerald AI announced its official launch, unveiling the results of its first commercial demonstration and $24.5 million in seed funding led by Radical Ventures, with participation from NVentures (NVIDIA's venture capital arm), AMPLO, CRV, and Neotribe. Emerald AI is also backed by an array of notable individual investors, including Google Chief Scientist Jeff Dean, former … [More]
Navigating Arizona’s Semiconductor Supply Chain
Strategic alignment impacted by tariffs, AI and more
The U.S. Commerce Department's Section 232 investigation into semiconductor imports has significant implications for Arizona's burgeoning semiconductor ecosystem. As the state advances its position as a domestic semiconductor manufacturing hub, the investigation's outcomes could reshape the landscape for local manufacturers and suppliers. Strategic alignment with federal … [More]
Chemical Logistics Firm Anchors Arizona’s Growing Supply Chain
In Casa Grande, a new kind of infrastructure is taking shape, less visible than fabs and battery plants but just as vital to Arizona's high-tech economy. NRS Logios America, a global leader in chemical logistics, officially opened its first U.S. logistics facility in late May: a $90-million chemical logistics park designed to meet the rising demand for safe and reliable … [More]
Best Practices for Using AI Wisely
1.Start Small Identify one or two key areas where AI can have the most significant impact, such as customer service chatbots or automated invoicing. These are great starting points for businesses looking to automate interactions and save time. 2.Verify AI Outputs AI-generated insights or recommendations should be reviewed before implementation. Human oversight is necessary … [More]
How AI Can Transform Small Businesses
Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept; it’s already reshaping the way businesses operate. While it may seem complex, AI’s core function is simple: enabling machines to analyze data, recognize patterns, and automate tasks that would normally require human input. For small business owners, AI is a game-changer, offering powerful tools to streamline operations, … [More]
Arizona Public Universities Launch The Next Wave of Women Engineers
Arizona’s public universities are driving the state’s rise as a national hub for engineering and technology talent. With Arizona among the fastest-growing states in the nation and demand accelerating across the semiconductor, health care and tech sectors, Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University and the University of Arizona are producing skilled graduates who are … [More]
Arizona Sees First Test Flight of Honeywell’s Autonomous Helicopter
Honeywell and Near Earth Autonomy have successfully completed the first autonomous test flight of a Leonardo AW139 helicopter, marking a major milestone in support of the U.S. Marine Corps Aerial Logistics Connector (ALC) program. This flight demonstrates the feasibility of uncrewed, autonomous aircraft capable of operating in contested environments without an onboard pilot or … [More]
AI Brings Smarter Energy Management to Rental Property Platform
SmartRent, Inc., the provider of smart communities solutions and smart operations solutions for the rental housing industry, announced the continued evolution of its platform with the introduction an AI-powered intelligence layer and enhanced energy management tools designed to empower operators to make informed decisions to reduce utility waste, cut costs and support ESG … [More]
Verizon Business Launches Vehicle-to-Everything Connected-Driving Platform, ACA Partners
Arizona Commerce Authority the first partner to sign on for the Edge Transportation Exchange platform
Verizon Business has commercially launched Edge Transportation Exchange, a mobile-network vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication platform for connected vehicles, with multiple customers already signed on, including the Arizona Commerce Authority. Following a successful U.S. Department of Transportation and 5G Automotive Association joint demonstration, the Arizona … [More]
Collaboration Fuels Arizona’s Semiconductor Success
Arizona is taking center stage for semiconductor development
Elected officials and semiconductor industry leaders gathered in April at Arizona Commerce Authority's Semi Breakfast Fueling Innovation: How Arizona is leading the charge in next generation semiconductor development, a forum hosted by the ACA to discuss the importance of semiconductor development in building a resilient Arizona economy. The message was clear: Semiconductor … [More]
New Tempe-Based Foundry Expands Arizona’s Tech Edge
Quantum Computing Inc. recently celebrated its quantum photonic chip foundry at Arizona State University's Research Park, marking a significant advancement in the state's semiconductor and quantum technology sectors. The facility specializes in producing thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) photonic chips, essential components for high-speed data transmission and quantum computing … [More]
Pipeline Connects and Arizona PBS Team Up to Bring Career Pathways to Life
For students weighing their futures and job seekers navigating new career directions, the journey often begins with a question: What does that job really look like? A new partnership between Arizona PBS and nonprofit Pipeline Connects provides some much-needed answers with a cinematic twist. The two organizations have joined forces to launch a video series that spotlights … [More]
AI: A Revolution with Risks
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing our world, bringing groundbreaking advancements, but also raising important risks that we must address. The Growing Benefits AI is becoming an essential part of everyday life, from the apps we use to the devices we depend on. Voice assistants like Siri and Alexa help manage tasks, while AI-powered maps suggest the quickest routes … [More]
AI-Driven Bookkeeping Platform Secures $10M Series A Funding
Uplinq, a leading provider of AI-driven bookkeeping and tax solutions for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), today announced the closing of a $10 million Series A funding round. The round was led by Next Coast Ventures, with participation from AZ-VC, Live Oak Ventures, and existing investors. This infusion of capital will accelerate Uplinq's growth, … [More]
ASU Partners to Launch Preeminent Life Science Business Program
From driving research breakthroughs to bringing new treatments to market, life sciences and business professionals are increasingly in demand. Arizona State University is meeting that demand with the launch of the McKenna Life Sciences, Business and Entrepreneurship Program — a bold, interdisciplinary experience launching in fall 2026 and designed for students who want to lead … [More]
Majority of Gen Z ChatGPT Users View AI as Coworker, Says Survey
Resume.org, the platform for building resumes, has released new findings from a May 2025 survey exploring how workers use ChatGPT on the job. The survey of 8,647 full-time U.S. employees reveals that Gen Z is far ahead of older generations in adopting and integrating ChatGPT into their daily work lives. From brainstorming ideas to making tough decisions, Gen Z is not only using … [More]
Data Center Developer Announces Expansion of Metro Phoenix Infrastructure
EdgeCore Digital Infrastructure, a wholesale data center developer, owner and operator, announced the acquisition of an additional 43.87 acres of land in Mesa, Arizona and expanded data center capacity designed to deliver 450 MW+ to its hyperscale customers. This new parcel of land more than doubles the buildable acreage EdgeCore controls in Mesa. “Today’s expansion … [More]
