Entrepreneurs
The State of Arizona boasts a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem characterized by a robust network of resources, favorable business climate and a growing number of startups. As of recent years, Arizona has seen a significant rise in new business formation, ranking among the top states for startup activity.
According to the Kauffman Index, Arizona has consistently ranked high in terms of startup density and the rate of new entrepreneurs. The state offers various incentives and support systems, including tax credits, grants and business development programs, to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. Additionally, Arizona is home to several prominent incubators and accelerators, such as Seed Spot, CEI Gateway and the Arizona Commerce Authority, which provide essential resources and mentorship to emerging businesses.
Arizona Dynamism
In terms of funding, Arizona’s entrepreneurial ecosystem benefits from an increasing flow of venture capital. In 2022, venture capital investments in Arizona-based startups reached approximately $1.2 billion, reflecting a growing confidence in the state’s innovation potential.
The tech sector, in particular, has seen substantial growth, with Phoenix and Tucson emerging as key hubs for technology and bioscience startups. Arizona’s universities, such as Arizona State University and the University of Arizona, play a pivotal role in this ecosystem by fostering research, development and commercialization of new technologies. With a business-friendly regulatory environment and a supportive community of investors, mentors and institutions, Arizona continues to be an attractive destination for entrepreneurs looking to launch and scale their ventures.
Superior Enterprise Center
Welcome to the Superior Enterprise Center (SEC), the epicenter of innovation and entrepreneurial spirit in Superior, AZ. With a mission to empower visionary entrepreneurs and budding startups by providing the resources, support and guidance needed to transform ideas into thriving businesses, SEC believes in the power of entrepreneurship to drive economic growth, create jobs and build a vibrant community.
Collaborative Community — At the heart of Superior’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is a an extraordinarily collaborative community of like-minded entrepreneurs, experienced mentors and industry experts. SEC provides a vibrant co-working space where ideas can flourish, and networking opportunities abound through Arizona’s robust entrepreneurship network of public, private and nonprofit sector partners.
Collectively, SEC workshops, seminars and networking events are designed to facilitate knowledge exchange, inspire creativity and foster valuable connections that can propel any business forward.
The Hive — The Institute for Digital Inclusion Acceleration (IDIA), Rebuild Superior and the Town of Superior are thrilled to announce the opening of the newest Hive location in Superior, AZ.
As the organization’s first rural operation, The Hive at Superior Enterprise Center offers free classes, camps and workshops in Computer Basics and Literacy, Online safety and Cybersecurity, 3D Printing, Video Production, Coding, Robotics and much more.
Onsite Digital Navigators help visitors with tech support, using the internet, finding resources, exploring technology and learning new skills. The space also serves as a community hub for job seekers, students, senior entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Nurturing Innovation, Fostering Success — SEC is more than just a facility; it’s a dynamic ecosystem designed to nurture innovation and foster success. Whether an entrepreneur is developing a groundbreaking idea or looking to scale a startup to new heights, SEC offers a comprehensive suite of services to achieve most business goals.
From business planning and mentorship to access to funding and state-of-the-art facilities, SEC supports every step of an entrepreneur’s journey.
Current Offerings
2 Day Bootcamps — In cooperation with SEED SPOT, SEC offers entrepreneurs the chance to start their businesses with confidence alongside other idea- and early-stage entrepreneurs in this interactive workshop. Over two energizing days of training, collaboration and support, entrepreneurs will build the foundations of a successful venture, connect with a team of mentors and craft a business pitch worthy of sharing.
Business Launch Camps — In cooperation with SEED SPOT, SEC offers this interactive program designed to help entrepreneurs refine their businesses. Participants define a target customer, a value proposition and a business model to sustain impact, connect with a network of business advisors and mentors, make meaningful connections with other founders in the Copper Corridor, develop a refined, sharable elevator pitch and create simple, actionable next steps for a business. Participants also gain membership in a global alumni network with lifetime benefits, including mentorship, funding resources, legal support and more.
Personalized Coaching — SEC offers personalized coaching to help start or grow a business, as well as provides access to free self-paced courses, mentorship, preferred pricing on business services and access to funding opportunities.
Youth Entrepreneurial Camps — In partnership with SEED SPOT, SEC offers students in grades 6-12 the opportunity to explore entrepreneurship. Participants address a problem they have encountered and develop a solution. In this interactive workshop, young entrepreneurs collaborate with peers over two energizing days of training, support and mentorship. They build the foundations of a successful venture and create a business pitch they can proudly share.
Join Superior’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem — SEC encourages all entrepreneurs to join the local ecosystem. From a passionate entrepreneur with a groundbreaking idea to a startup looking to accelerate growth, or an investor seeking the next big opportunity, SEC offers support for all.
SEC fosters a collaborative environment to make Superior a hub of entrepreneurial excellence.
https://www.rebuildsuperioraz.org/superior-enterprise-center
Visit the Incentives page to learn more about available financing and tax incentives in Superior.