Quantum Computing Inc., an innovative, integrated photonics and quantum optics technology company, celebrated the grand opening of its quantum photonic chip foundry located in Tempe at a ribbon cutting ceremony on May 12, 2025. The event was attended by Tempe Mayor Corey Woods, along with multiple government officials and industry leaders, who gathered to mark this milestone … [More]
Small Business Optimism Declines in April, Survey Reveals
Fewer owners planning to increase business investments
The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index declined by 1.6 points in April to 95.8, the second consecutive month below the 51-year average of 98. The Uncertainty Index decreased four points from March to 92 but remained far above the historical average of 68. Seasonally adjusted, 34% of business owners reported job openings they could not fill in April, down six points from March. … [More]
Sprouts Foundation to Award $3M in Grants to Local Organizations Focused on Nutrition, Health, and Wellness
The Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation announced the launch of its 2025 Grants Program, with $3 million funding available to support local organizations that advance nutrition education, nutrition access, and wellness for children and adults in the communities where Sprouts operates. More than 500 local nonprofits will be selected to receive grants up to $10,000. “At … [More]
Carvana and Pickleball Association Grow Sport with New Multi-Year Partnership
Carvana, the leading e-commerce platform for buying and selling used cars, and the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA Tour) announced the extension of their multi-year title sponsorship agreement. This renewal builds upon the tremendous success of their initial partnership, which began in 2022 and has helped propel pickleball to new heights as America's fastest-growing … [More]
Law Firms Combine to Redefine Employment Law in the West
In a bold move that strengthens its leadership in labor and employment law services, Fennemore, a leading full-service business law firm, is combining with BurnsBarton, a premier Phoenix-based employment law and litigation boutique firm, effective June 2, 2025. The strategic union nearly doubles the number of Phoenix-based attorneys in Fennemore’s Employment and Labor Law … [More]
8 in 10 Hiring Managers Say Recent College Grads Didn’t Work Out on the Job
Managers report excessive phone use, lack of professionalism, and poor initiative among recent graduates
Resume.org, the leading platform for building a resume, has released new findings from an April 2025 survey assessing how hiring managers view recent college graduates. The survey of 1,000 U.S. hiring managers reveals that 8 in 10 say a recent college graduate didn’t work out at their company in the past year, and 65% say they had to fire at least one. Managers also report … [More]
Scottsdale General Contractor Recognized among the Nation’s Top Builders
Lifestyle Homes earned a coveted spot on the 2025 Builder 100 List by BUILDER Magazine. Headquartered in Scottsdale, Lifestyle Homes is a leading general contractor specializing in high-density build-to-rent communities across Arizona. The company was honored along with other top home builders in the United States during a three-day summit in Dana Point, California, May … [More]
New Tariffs Reshape Economic Landscape, Highlighting Commercial Real Estate’s Stability
Sweeping tariff policy heightens uncertainty. The recent introduction of the “Liberation Day tariffs” marks the most significant shift in U.S. trade policy in more than a century, propelling the net effective tariff rate from about 2.5 percent last year to well above that for most countries. A 10 percent blanket tariff now covers nearly all imports. Initially, 90 countries … [More]
Small Businesses Stay Confident amid U.S. Economic Uncertainty
Nearly half of U.S. small and microbusiness owners expect the national economy to weaken in the coming months. Despite the outlook, most still believe their own businesses will grow, according to new survey data released today by GoDaddy. In the latest findings from the GoDaddy Small Business Research Lab, formerly known as Venture Forward, 49% of 2,100 U.S. microbusiness … [More]
Phoenix Recognized as a National Leader in Affordable Housing Development
Phoenix has earned a spot as one of the top 10 cities leading the way in affordable housing development, according to a recent report by Yardi Matrix. The report underscores Phoenix’s commitment to expanding affordable housing options and the City’s proactive approach to addressing the growing need for accessible living spaces for all residents. The most … [More]
WESTMARC Announces 2025 Economic Development Summit Focused on Tourism, Entertainment, and Emerging Micro-Downtowns in the West Valley, May 13
WESTMARC is proud to announce its highly anticipated 2025 Economic Development Summit, set for May 13, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Grand Canyon University. This year’s summit will highlight the West Valley’s emergence as a premier tourism and entertainment destination while showcasing a multitude of amenities ranging from national sports to global music artists choosing … [More]
Arizona Is the Sixth-Best State to Work In for Wage Increases, Study Finds
A new study finds that Arizona experienced the sixth-largest wage increase between 2020 and 2023, recording an 18.4% increase. This wasn't too far behind the state with the largest percentage increase, Montana, which saw a 20.7% rise. According to the data, only four states saw wage increases that outpaced inflation. Work management experts Asana analyzed Bureau of Labor … [More]
What’s New in Scottsdale for Summer ’25
Dive into summer savings, relaxation and stay-cool attractions
Whether making a splash in the pool at one of Scottsdale's new and refreshed resorts, savoring a bucket list culinary experience, enjoying "noctourism" activities, or immersing oneself in art and culture, Scottsdale is swimming with endless opportunities for visitors to take the plunge into fun, adventure and relaxation.Resort Roundup Finding personal zen is … [More]
SRP Awards $200,000 in Grants to 55 Arizona Teachers for Innovative Classroom Projects
Salt River Project (SRP) announced it will award $200,000 in STEM, history and social science grants to support 55 elementary, middle and high school classrooms across the state through its Classroom Grants Program. The SRP Classroom Grants Program aims to support schools, educators and students as they develop projects and curriculum geared toward state-mandated … [More]
Greater Phoenix Housing Market Gains Momentum with Sales Increase
The number of residential home sales rose for the second month in a row. Year-over-year closed home deals increased 4.1% compared to the first four months of 2024. “With all the questions about the economy, it’s reassuring to see closings rise again,” said Christy Walker, board president of Phoenix REALTORS®. “New listings are also up again, which gives us a diverse range of … [More]
Optimize Your Business: Time Milestones for Your Business Exit
Selling your business is a milestone, both personally and financially—but it also takes a well thought out plan to maximize the sale proceeds and to prepare yourself personally for the business exit. The more time the business owners have in crafting and executing their business exit plan will result in a higher probability of them to achieve their desired outcomes. … [More]
$120M Development Breaks Ground in Queen Creek
Leading real estate developer Creation, in partnership with Horizon Real Estate Ltd., broke ground on The Switchyard, a $120 million mixed-use project poised to become Queen Creek’s first walkable, design-driven district, uniting sought-after restaurants, retail, offices and future residential. Joining the restaurant mix are Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, a vibrant breakfast and … [More]
Plans for Additional Tempe Town Lake Recreation Opportunities Begin to Take Shape
If you’ve ever wanted to partner with the City and open a recreation amenity business on Tempe Town Lake, the City of Tempe is looking for great concepts and companies to add to the suite of activities available on the lakeshore as part of exciting next steps for the implementation of the Rio Salado Master Plan. The Rio Salado Master Plan provides a roadmap for additional … [More]
