Honoring Black Entrepreneurs & Strengthening Financial Access
Black entrepreneurs, who have long been the pioneers of innovation, resilience, and economic growth, face unique challenges in accessing capital. From the historic Black Wall Streets to today’s thriving enterprises, Black-owned businesses have been instrumental in shaping industries, creating jobs, and strengthening communities. Despite their significant contributions, the lack of financial access remains a major hurdle.
At Growth Partners Arizona (GPAz), we believe in collective prosperity through community-centric collaboration. We are committed to breaking down financial barriers and ensuring that Arizona small business owners can access the capital, education, and support they need to thrive. We are investing in a stronger, more equitable economy for all through strategic partnerships, mission-driven lending, and inclusive initiatives.
Turning Commitment into Action | We Rise Business Accelerator
Each year, GPAz proudly supports programs like the We Rise Small Business Accelerator, an initiative by Local First Arizona that equips Black entrepreneurs with the resources, mentorship, and financial tools they need to scale their businesses. Through this accelerator, business owners gain access to professional coaching, workshops, and capital—empowering them to build sustainable enterprises that significantly contribute to Arizona’s economy.
Investing in Alternative Financing Programs | BIPOC Loan Fund
We are deeply invested in expanding financial access through the BIPOC Loan Fund, designed to support Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) entrepreneurs. This fund provides affordable, flexible financing to business owners historically excluded from traditional lending opportunities.
Community Partnerships & Investments
Our work extends beyond direct lending. We believe in the power of partnerships with organizations dedicated to advancing Black entrepreneurship in Arizona. By collaborating with Black business networks, nonprofits, and community leaders, we help create an ecosystem where capital meets opportunity and businesses can thrive.
Why Expanding Access to Capital Matters
Black-owned businesses, among the fastest-growing in the country, face a stark reality-80% rely on personal savings to start and scale their ventures due to limited access to traditional financing. These disparities don’t just affect individual business owners—they have a ripple effect, limiting job creation, economic stability, and generational wealth-building in entire communities.
At GPAz, we’re focused on solutions that ensure Black entrepreneurs are equipped with the tools to succeed, including:
- Mission-Driven Financing – Flexible loan programs designed to meet the needs of underserved business owners.
- Financial Education – Business coaching, workshops, and boot camps that build long-term financial sustainability.
- Community-Centric Collaboration – Partnerships with local organizations to create ecosystems of support.
Black-Owned Businesses Thriving with Access to Capital
Through our lending programs and partnerships, we’ve helped Black entrepreneurs across Arizona launch, grow, and scale their businesses.
We are proud to have supported Black entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders in securing the capital needed to grow and sustain their businesses. From helping retail stores expand and create new jobs to providing Black-led nonprofits with gap financing to continue their mission-driven work, we are unwavering in our commitment to fostering collective prosperity. These investments fuel business growth, strengthen communities, and create lasting opportunities for future generations.
Businesses’ access to capital and support drives economic mobility and community wealth.
Join Us in Advancing Economic Opportunity
- Are you a Black entrepreneur looking for funding or business support? Here’s how we can help:
- Apply for funding: Explore our loan programs designed to meet your needs.
- Join We Rise: Take advantage of expert mentorship and financial tools.
- Attend a workshop: Strengthen your financial skills and business acumen.
- Stay connected: Follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for updates on funding opportunities.
We believe economic opportunity grows when we invest in people, businesses, and communities.
Let’s build a stronger future, one business at a time.
Interested in learning more? Contact us today or visit our website to see how we can support your business journey.
#BlackHistoryMonth #BusinessGrowth #WeRiseAZ #BIPOCLoanFund #CollectiveProsperity #CommunityDrivenGrowth
