Collaborations between businesses and philanthropic organizations are more common than ever. The strongest partnerships that communities can rally behind are long-standing, strategic relationships between corporations and nonprofits. But the dynamics of these relationships are evolving. Communities are calling on corporations to provide a more comprehensive and consistent … [More]
Elevating Corporate Social Responsibility through Collaboration
Philanthropy beyond businesses’ one-and-done fundraising
2026 All-New Lucid Gravity Grand Touring
The Lucid Gravity offers the versatility of a sophisticated, full-size, three-row SUV, with space for adults and families to ride in comfort with all their gear and the performance of a luxury sports car. With up to 450 miles of EPA-estimated driving range, blistering-fast charging that can add 200 miles of range in less than 11 minutes, and a built-in NACS charge port, the … [More]
A Tune-Up at Work?
Music in the office can be a real hit—or a total miss. At our office, the speakers are always playing tunes, and, while some people love the background beat, others wish they could press “pause.” So, does music help or hurt productivity? Let’s break it down: Boosting the Beat: For some, music helps them focus, boosts their mood, and makes the workday feel less like work. … [More]
SugerJam The Southern Kitchen – Culture & Spice & Everything Nice
Dana Dumas has brought all the elements together to make “Southern hospitality” a palpable presence. At SugarJam The Southern Kitchen, good vibes from the wait staff and the eclectic décor combine with good food. The restaurant owes its start to Dumas’s “jammies” — her jam-filled sugar-cookie sandwiches she sold first at farmers markets and street fairs. But the menu’s … [More]
Are Cultural Divides Growing at Work? And Why Does It Matter?
Leapsome’s latest report reveals trends impacting company culture and challenging HR leaders
A recently released report from Leapsome, the AI-powered people platform for HR excellence, spotlights the growing pressure on People teams to juggle top-down mandates, widening cultural divides and the rapid rise of AI — all while being tasked with driving productivity and influencing key business decisions. From economic pressure to political polarization and AI … [More]
CEO & President’s Letter
A Glance at May 2025
As we navigate another quarter in the ever-evolving landscape of business, I want to take a moment to share some insights that directly impact our local economy and the businesses that drive it. The numbers tell a compelling story, one of resilience, challenges and opportunities that define today’s small business experience. Nationally, optimism among small business owners … [More]
What Happens if Prop. 123 Expires in July 2025
This has provided $3.5 billion to K-12 education within the first ten years of its enactment
Proposition 123 is an Arizona initiative approved by voters in 2016 and has been top of mind at the legislature as policymakers work to find a sustainable solution to fund Arizona’s public school system. Since the proposition is set to expire in July 2025, lawmakers have limited time to reach consensus and send a reauthorization to the voters. The History of Proposition … [More]
Arizona Works when Childcare Works
Like the rest of the nation, Arizona is experiencing a childcare crisis. Working parents face the obvious problem of being unable to find or afford quality childcare. Did you know that it’s also a problem for businesses? In Arizona, on average, businesses lose $2,020 per working parent annually through reduced revenue and extra hiring costs, according to a 2023 study funded … [More]
Southwest Gas Rate Increase Necessary for Businesses
Chandler has long been known as a hub of innovation in Arizona, but today that reputation extends around the globe. Our city stands at the forefront of the semiconductor revolution, with industry leaders like Intel investing billions in our community and a thriving supply chain of high-tech manufacturers choosing Chandler as their home. Our future is brighter than … [More]
How U.S. Tariffs Impact Chandler Businesses
Arizona’s economy depends on international trade, meaning that 1 in 5 jobs may be negatively impacted by tariffs Tariffs have become a hot-button issue as the United States has threatened economic action against international trade partners, ostensibly to increase domestic production and penalize countries for alleged unfair trade practices or even policies that have nothing … [More]
The Importance of Social Media Marketing in 2025 and Beyond
As we move further into 2025, social media marketing remains one of the most powerful tools for businesses to connect with their audience and drive growth. With billions of active users across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn and Facebook, social media continues to be essential for building brand awareness, fostering community and driving sales. Looking ahead, … [More]
