We’re fortunate when it comes to our members at the Arizona Technology Council. Beyond being our supporters through dues and sponsorships, many have become our partners in a number of initiatives that ultimately benefit the entire technology community here.
But there is one member in particular that often is the first to respond when we have an idea or just need a hand. And now that it has reached the milestone of marking 10 years of service to us and the rest of the state of Arizona, I just have one thing to say:
Congratulations to the Arizona Commerce Authority!
Its story began in early 2011 when then-Gov. Jan Brewer signed into law the Arizona Competitiveness Package, a collection of business incentives and tax reforms designed to spur the state’s economy. Considered the centerpiece was the birth of the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) and the retirement of predecessor Arizona Commerce Department as the new agency was charged with the retention and recruitment of quality jobs for the state.
As ACA evolved, it began focusing on specific sectors, including aerospace and defense, technology and innovation, manufacturing, bioscience and health care, and financial services. Sound familiar? Our membership is comprised of players — both large and small — from these fields.
And for ACA, nothing is too small. It has become a supporter in a number of ways for startups. A prime example is the annual Arizona Innovation Challenge, a biannual competition for grants and enrollment into the ACA’s Venture Ready accelerator. It is one of the many tools that it offers those who want to see their idea become more than just that.
ACA is often called upon by Gov. Doug Ducey to help carry out his agenda for economic development. And as the state’s economy begins its recovery, look for ACA to play a major role.
We at the Council see ACA’s enthusiasm for innovation — and our state — up close in such events as our partnering on the annual Governor’s Celebration of Innovation. It continues with our collaborative initiative called the SciTech Institute. We are co-publishers of the quarterly e-magazine TechConnect. I could go on and on.
I would be remiss if I neglected to point out there is one person who has been a big part of the Council’s success long before she became ACA’s leader. I’m referring to President and CEO Sandra Watson. She has been active in the Council since its start and has always been there for us over the years. I’m also proud to call her one of my dearest friends.
So, here’s to you, Arizona Commerce Authority. After 10 years of working for Arizona, I know even better days lie ahead for all of us.
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