At Growth Partners Arizona (GPAz), we believe that fostering local entrepreneurship is critical to unlocking the full potential of our communities. That’s why we are thrilled to announce our new partnership with Startup Unidos (SU), a collaboration dedicated to nurturing economic growth and cultural innovation across Southern Arizona’s vibrant border towns. This initiative will address the critical challenges entrepreneurs face in Southern AZ and create opportunities for them to thrive.
Cross-Border Collaboration: A Vision for Inclusive Growth
Our partnership with Startup Unidos is rooted in a shared commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. During a recent visit to Sonora, AZ, the energy and creativity of cross-border communities left a profound impression on our team. The trip reinforced the value of breaking down barriers—not just physical but also economic and systemic.
“This partnership represents a powerful step forward in building a more inclusive and resilient Arizona. By leveraging our combined expertise, we’re helping small businesses overcome challenges and seize opportunities that might otherwise remain out of reach.”
-Andre T. Whittington, Executive Director of GPAz
Small businesses in Arizona’s border towns face unique hurdles. For instance, access to capital is often limited, and many entrepreneurs struggle to secure financing due to their location and the availability of funding opportunities. Additionally, financial literacy resources tailored to entrepreneurs can be scarce, making it difficult for them to manage their businesses effectively. These issues are compounded by systemic inequities, leaving many cultural and community-based entrepreneurs struggling to scale their ventures.
Consider these statistics:
- Over 40% of small businesses in border communities report significant difficulty obtaining funding.
- Many aspiring entrepreneurs need more tools and mentorship to navigate complex financial landscapes.
This partnership seeks to change that narrative. By focusing on financial education, which includes budgeting and financial planning workshops, innovative programs that pair experienced entrepreneurs with new founders, and cultural entrepreneurship initiatives promoting Southern Arizona’s unique cultural aspects, GPAz and SU aim to provide the resources and support these communities need to thrive.
Our collaboration is built around three core pillars:
- Access to Capital: Provide entrepreneurs with the funding opportunities and the financial knowledge necessary to grow their businesses.
- Cultural Innovation: Elevate Southern Arizona’s unique cross-border culture as an economic development driver.
- Community Engagement: Strengthen local ecosystems through workshops, mentorship programs, and strategic outreach.
Combining SU’s leadership in community program execution with GPAz’s expertise as a CDFI (Community Development Financial Institution), we’re creating an ecosystem where entrepreneurs can flourish. This partnership has the potential to significantly strengthen local economies, create jobs, and foster connections between Arizona and Mexico, promoting cross-border collaboration and shared success.
“This partnership is about more than funding; it’s about reshaping the narrative for border communities. Together, we’re fostering ecosystems where entrepreneurs feel supported, cultural innovation is championed, and every small business has the chance to succeed.”
– Stephanie Bermudez, Founder & CEO, Startup Unidos
As this partnership takes shape, it’s clear that the work we’re embarking on will have lasting impacts. Entrepreneurs in cities like Nogales, Douglas, and San Luis will gain the tools and support they need to overcome long-standing obstacles, and cultural businesses will have new opportunities to grow and thrive.
Looking ahead, we’re committed to tracking measurable outcomes—from financial growth to community engagement—to ensure that every initiative delivers meaningful, sustainable results. We’re also excited to amplify the voices of the entrepreneurs we support, sharing their stories to inspire others and showcase the potential of these incredible communities.
At Growth Partners Arizona and Startup Unidos, we know that change happens when communities come together. By building bridges—literal and metaphorical—we’re helping to create a more inclusive and equitable future for Arizona’s border communities.