Growth Partners Arizona in Collaboration with ASU Edson E+I Institute Expands Access to Capital Readiness for Arizona Small Businesses

Phoenix, AZ – September 24, 2025 — Growth Partners Arizona (GPAz), in collaboration with the J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute at Arizona State University (ASU Edson E+I Institute), is proud to announce the launch of CORE+ (Capital, Opportunity, Resources & Empowerment) — a new initiative designed to strengthen capital readiness and financial capability for small businesses across Arizona.

This collaboration positions GPAz as a key partner in ASU Edson E+I Institute’s small business programs, aligning both organizations’ missions to foster economic empowerment through access to capital, entrepreneurial training, and growth resources.

“Together, we’re expanding the financial toolbox for Arizona’s entrepreneurs,” said Andre T. Whittington, Executive Director of Growth Partners Arizona. “This partnership enables us to tackle the barriers small business owners face in becoming funding-ready and accessing affordable capital.”

Through this collaboration, GPAz will deliver a suite of support for entrepreneurs, including funding readiness workshops, the Cashflow Canvas Bootcamp, a Digital Small Business Finance Certificate Program, and pathways to affordable financing products. The partnership also includes the development of a Business Finance Collaborative within ASU Edson E+I Institute’s Venture Development framework, designed to connect small business owners with local bankers, financial educators, and capital experts.

“By combining our entrepreneurial expertise with GPAz’s financial acumen, we’re strengthening Arizona’s business ecosystem,” said Kristin Slice, Director of Community Entrepreneurship for Edson E+I. “This initiative is about equipping small business owners with the tools and resources they need to grow sustainably and succeed long-term.”

Both organizations will jointly track outcomes and impact metrics to ensure programming remains aligned with the needs of Arizona’s small business community.

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Arizona’s economy by supporting entrepreneurs through every stage of their journey.