PHX Reporter

New data indicates that a partnership between Maricopa County and Local First Arizona has benefited 5,228 small businesses during the pandemic. The findings were presented to the County Board of Supervisors, revealing that 92 percent of these businesses are still operational. This outcome is partly due to a $1 million investment made by the County Board of Supervisors from July 2021 to July 2023.

Jack Sellers, Chairman of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, stated, "Small businesses are the backbone of our economy in Maricopa County, and I’m grateful for partners like Local First who are deeply invested in their success and longevity." He added that the partnership helped stabilize the local economy and supported entrepreneurial individuals and families throughout the county.

Local First Arizona provided business technical assistance in five languages, aiding small business owners with operations, finances, financial literacy, licensing, contracting, compliance, and marketing programs.

Kimber Lanning, Founder and CEO of Local First Arizona, expressed gratitude towards the Maricopa Board of Supervisors: "With the county’s partnership, we’ve been able to achieve remarkable results, providing one-on-one consulting for more than 5,000 locally owned businesses."

During the pandemic's peak, nearly 20 percent of small businesses in the state were lost due to economic challenges. However, thanks to Maricopa County's investment, 92 percent of supported businesses remain active. Between 2021 and 2023 alone, this funding saved over 600 small enterprises.

Since 2020, Maricopa County has allocated more than $90 million from CARES Act and ARPA funding to support small businesses. More details on assistance programs can be found at Maricopa.gov/Rescue.