Description
As Governor, Arizonas economic turnaround is my focus. I have aimed to make this state the easiest, most attractive location to start and expand a business.
A R I Z O N A
E N T R E P R E N E U R ’ S
E D G E
Resource Gui de t o St ar t i ng, Operat i ng and
Growi ng a Busi ness i n Ari zona
As Governor, Arizona’s economic turnaround is my focus. I have aimed to make this
state the easiest, most attractive location to start and expand a business. After all,
our small business owners and entrepreneurs are the true job creators in Arizona.
They are our most signi?cant stewards of wealth and prosperity.
That’s why I have championed a model for economic recovery in which the
government keeps taxes competitive and regulations lean. We focus on improving
our schools and quality of life, and keep government interference to a minimum in
order to free the private sector to do what it does best: create jobs. It’s working.
The climate we have built for business success here in Arizona is being recognized
nationally. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce just released its Enterprising States
Report, and ranked Arizona among the ten Best States to start a business.
Additionally, Chief Executive Magazine ranked us the 6th-best state in the nation in
which to do business - up four spots in the rankings from a year ago.
I am delighted to bring you this edition of the Entrepreneur’s Edge, Arizona’s of?cial guide for establishing and operating
a small business. My Arizona Commerce Authority stands ready with a host of resources to assist small businesses and
entrepreneurs across our state as they grow their businesses.
Please contact my Arizona Commerce Authority to assist you. Together, I know we will continue to make Arizona a
beacon for entrepreneurs and small-business leaders.
Sincerely,
Janice K. Brewer
Governor
Si gni f i cancy
Small businesses are the backbone of Arizona’s economy and central to the state’s
economic health and well being. They represent 97 percent of all employers,
creating and sustaining jobs for almost one million Arizonans.
Supporting inventive entrepreneurs is a primary focus area for the Arizona
Commerce Authority. After all, today’s big idea becomes tomorrow’s Fortune 500.
For those of you who are creating, operating and expanding business in Arizona, our
Entrepreneur’s Edge is the ideal place to start. This resource is rich with information
to guide you from concept to commercialization . . . and every stage between.
Your entrepreneurial spirit fosters the foundation for economic growth in Arizona.
Look to the Arizona Commerce Authority’s Entrepreneur’s Edge, as well as our
suite of pro-business programs, for assistance every step of the way.
Best of luck with your business venture, and thank you for your continued
commitment to our great state.
Sandra Watson
President and CEO, Arizona Commerce Authority
azcommerce.com
T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to the fact that much of the information is created by
external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
Ar i zona Ent r epr eneur ’s Edge
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F R OM I DEA T O BUSI NESS
Busi ness Pl anni ng and Resear ch
SOUR CES OF HEL P
Busi ness Assi st ance and Counsel i ng
F I NANCI NG YOUR BUSI NESS
Fi nanci al Opt i ons and Fundi ng Sour ces
F I L I NG AND R EGI ST ER I NG
Busi ness St r uct ur es and Regi st r at i on
L I CENSI NG AND TAX ES
Busi ness L i censes and Tax I nf or mat i on
HI R I NG EMP L OYEES AND CONT R ACT L ABOR
L abor Gui del i nes and Wor kf or ce Assi st ance
MAR KET I NG AND SEL L I NG YOUR P R ODUCT S OR SER VI CES
Busi ness Devel opment and Pr ocur ement Oppor t uni t i es
NET WOR KI NG I N T HE BUSI NESS COMMUNI T Y
Busi ness Af f i l i at i ons and Associ at i ons
2-14
15-23
24-33
34-42
43-55
56-64
65-76
77-88
AZ EE
F R O M I D E A T O B U S I N E S S
3 • Business Checklist
» Arizona Commerce Authority’s Checklist Program 3
» Steps to Licensing Your Business 3
4 • The Business Plan – Your Road Map to Success
» Business Research Resources 8
» Business Plan Worksheets 9
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to the
fact that much of the information is created by external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
Busi ness Pl anni ng and Resear ch
2 AZ EE
The Arizona Commerce Authority’s Innovation Forward center offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to
take classes, receive business advice, and utilize a large meeting room.
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A r i z o n a Co mme r c e A u t h o r i t y ’ s ( A CA ) Ch e c k l i s t P r o g r a m
The ACA’s free online Checklist Program is designed to help you easily navigate information on what you need to
know, who you need to contact and where you need to go to license your business in Arizona.
STEPS TO LICENSING YOUR BUSINESS
? Regi steri ng your busi ness
? Obtai ni ng an EIN number
? Fi l i ng for your busi ness l i cense
? Appl yi ng for a state sal es tax l i cense
? Hi ri ng empl oyee requi rements
? Ci ty/town compl i ances
B U S I N E S S C H E C K L I S T
S t a r t u p Ch e c k l i s t
To help you setup your business ef?ciently, legally and soundly, here is a checklist in to-do order to follow:
? Contact one of the free small business assistance
organizations. See Chapter 2, Business Assistance
and Counseling, for organizations that provide
business assistance.
? Select your business support team: tax advisor
(CPA), attorney and insurance agent.
? Develop your business mission statement.
? Prepare a written business plan complete with
?nancial statements.
? Select your business structure: sole proprietorship,
partnership, LLC or corporation.
? Select the business name you will use. Research
the availability of the name.
? Register your business name and structure.
? Select your business location: lease or purchase.
? Review all labor regulations if hiring employees.
? Acquire necessary licenses and/or permits from
federal, state, county and/or city.
? Choose a banker and set up a business bank
account(s).
? Select an accounting system and software and
set up accounting and reporting procedures.
? Secure funding.
? Establish your “store front.”
? Launch!
Special thanks to the Southern Arizona SCORE Chapter
for developing this startup checklist .
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The Checklist guides you through a series of brief
questions to create your own customized business
checklist. From your customized business checklist, you
will be able to either apply online or download your
license applications. It includes telephone numbers and
addresses of all state, county and city/town licensing
of?ces. It also includes contact information to statewide
resources and assistance to accelerate your business
growth.
The process of going through the Checklist generally
takes 10-15 minutes to complete. Visit our website at
www.azcommerce.com/services/small-business-services
to create your customized business checklist.
The following resources provide referrals/listing of, and/or verify, licensed professionals.
Accountant:
Arizona Society of Certified Public Accountants
(ASCPA)
602-252-4144; 888-237-0700
www.ascpa.com
Attorney:
State Bar of Arizona
602-252-4804; 520-623-9944; 866-482-9227
www.azbar.org
Insurance Agent/Broker:
Arizona Department of Insurance
602-364-2499; 800-325-2548
www.azinsurance.gov
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T H E B U S I N E S S P L A N – Y O U R
Your business plan should be:
• A well-thought-out document stating your goals and
how you plan to develop and ?nance it.
• Primarily for you to prove that you can reach your
?nancial goals as well as personal.
• For lenders, investors and associates to fully understand
what the business is and how it will be done.
P UR P OS E S OF T HE B US I NE S S P L AN
As a planning tool, the business plan guides you through
the various phases of your business. A thoughtful plan
will help identify roadblocks and obstacles so that you
can avoid them and establish alternatives. Many business
owners share their business plans with their employees
to foster a broader understanding of where the business
is going.
As a communication tool, it is used to attract investment
capital, secure loans, convince workers to join the
company, and assist in attracting strategic business
partners. The development of a comprehensive business
plan determines whether a business has the potential
to make a pro?t. It requires a realistic look at almost
every phase of your business and allows you to show
that you have worked out all the problems and decided
on potential alternatives before actually launching your
business.
As a management tool, the business plan helps you
track, monitor, and evaluate your progress. The business
plan is a living document that you will modify as you gain
knowledge and experience. By using your business plan
to establish timelines and milestones, you can gauge
your progress and compare your projections to actual
accomplishments.
Before you begin writing your business plan, consider
the following core questions:
• What service or product does your business
provide?
• What problem in the marketplace does it solve?
• What needs or wants does it ?ll?
• Who are the potential customers for your product
or service and why will they purchase it from you?
• How will you reach your potential customers?
• Where will you get the ?nancial resources to start
your business?
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T H E B U S I N E S S P L A N – Y O U R R O A D M A P T O S U C C E S S
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Note: The following guidelines do not address every aspect of every business plan. You should consider more questions than those posed in each
section. Be sure to ask many questions – your success depends on the completeness of your planning process.
E L E ME NT S OF A B US I NE S S P L AN
I. TITLE PAGE
The title page should contain the following items, double-
spaced, horizontally centered and positioned just above
the center of the page:
• Business name
• Owner(s) name
• Complete contact information
II. TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Table of Contents should list the title of each section
of the document and indicate the page number where
each is located. It also should list speci?c support items
(appendices) by name.
Table of Contents page will be completed last, since
it requires the entire document as input. It allows the
reader to quickly locate speci?c sections.
III. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Most important section of the business plan:
• Should be written last.
• Will be viewed ?rst.
• An enthusiastic snapshot of your company,
explaining who you are, what you do and why.
The Executive Summary should be not more than a
two-page explanation of what your business is and its
competitive advantage.
Here you will provide a clear description of the industry
in which you are competing and a precise explanation of
your business’ unique qualities that set it apart from the
competition. This section is the business description of:
• Your story: Who you are, why you exist (the problem
in the market place), special bene?ts, unique
features, patents and copyrights. Your mission,
vision and core values.
• What you do: Business model, what’s in it for the
customer (the solution you offer), product/service,
production costs, bene?ts, competition and market.
• Where you’re going: What success looks like, goals,
?nancials and proof of pro?tability.
• How you’re going to get there: Action plans, long-
term strategy and roadmap.
IV. MARKETING PLAN
This section should contain a narrative description of
these factors:
A. Product/Service
• What is this industry’s outlook? What is the
demand for your product or service?
• What needs/wants/bene?ts are sought by your
customers (what’s in it for them)?
• Speci?cally, how does your product/service meet
those needs/wants/bene?ts?
• How is your product/service unique from the
competition?
• What customer services do you provide to
support the central product/service?
B. Target Market
First, determine if your focus is on consumers
(end-users) or other businesses. Tailor your responses
to the following appropriate category:
• Describe your customer base. Who and where is
your target market?
• What needs/wants/bene?ts are sought by your
customer that your product/service satis?es?
• When and under what circumstances does your
customer buy your product or service?
• Describe the volume and frequency of your
customer’s purchases.
• Based on available data, what is the expected
volume of your target market?
• Of that target market, what is the projected
volume of actual paying customers?
>
Additional information on writing a business plan can be found on the
U.S. Small Business Administration’s website at www.sba.gov
under the “Starting & Managing a Business” menu, select “Writing a
Business Plan.” Also, under the “Counseling & Training” menu, you
can find local contacts such as AZSBDC and SCORE, who provide FREE,
one-on-one counseling. They can assist you by reviewing your business
plan and your business ideas.
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Consumer: It is important for you to develop a clear,
mental picture of your ideal customers. Describe
your potential customers using the following factors:
age, gender, income, education, location, occupation,
interests, buying habits, and goals and aspirations.
Businesses: If selling to a business, your description
should include type of business, size of business,
priority placed on purchasing your product/service;
projected image of the business, markets that the
business services, its trade organizations and
memberships, and the trade publications read.
C. Competition
A description of your competition should answer the
following questions:
• Who are your major competitors?
• Why are they successful? What are their
strengths and weaknesses?
• What alternatives are there to your product?
• How do alternatives impact your sales?
• What distinctive differences separate you from
your competitors?
• Why should customers leave your competitors to
choose your product/service?
• What market share do you expect?
D. Location Analysis
Describe your business location and how it will
enhance the sale of your product or service. Your
description should answer the following questions:
• What strategic advantages do you have at this
location?
• Is there opportunity for expansion?
• What are the neighboring businesses?
• Do they complement/detract from yours?
• Are renovations needed? At what cost?
• What is the zoning classi?cation?
• Is the neighborhood stale, changing, improving,
deteriorating? How?
• How is customer access, parking, safety, etc.?
Include in the appendix a photograph of the building, a drawing of
the immediate area showing road access and identity of adjoining
businesses, and a drawing of the floor plan of your business.
E. Price Determination
A description of the price structure for your product
or service will answer the following questions:
• How does the unit cost of your product compare
to the relative value seen by the customer?
• How does your price compare with the
competition price?
• Why will customers pay your price?
• What image will this price project?
• What special advantages do your customers get
that is included in the price?
• Will you offer credit terms?
F. Marketing Approach
A description of your marketing effort should answer
the following questions:
• What are the test market results?
• Where do your customers seek information
about purchasing your product/service?
• How will your image be clearly and consistently
conveyed to potential buyers?
• Which media are most suitable?
• How will you evaluate the effectiveness of each
advertising and promotional effort?
• How will you use/evaluate a sales staff?
V. MANAGEMENT PLAN OR OPERATIONAL PLAN
This section contains a detailed description of who will
run the business and how they will do it, including the
following:
A. Management Team
A description of how the business will be managed
will answer these questions:
• What business management background do you
have?
E L E ME NT S OF A B US I NE S S P L AN ( c o n t i n u e d )
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AZ EE 7
• How will that drive the business?
• How is the experience of key people related to
this type of business?
• What legal form will you use, sole proprietorship,
partnership, LLC or corporation?
• Who does what? Who reports to whom?
• What resources are needed and who will provide
them (accountant, lawyer, etc.)?
Key per s onnel r es umes s houl d be i nc l uded i n t he appendi x.
B. Employee Relations
A description of your methods of hiring, training
and communicating with your staff will answer these
questions:
• What are your personnel needs?
• What skills will be required?
• How will you hire and train?
• What salary/bene?ts will be provided?
• How will you determine wage increases?
• What personnel policies will be provided?
C. Operational Controls
A description of the kinds of management systems
and how they will be used will answer these questions:
• What is your production capacity?
• What operating advantages do you have?
• What elements are key to your success?
• How will you monitor these factors?
• What hazards do you anticipate for your business?
• What protection and/or alternate plans do you
have?
• What policies will you establish for the operation
of your business?
• Who are your suppliers?
• How will costs be controlled?
VI. FINANCIAL PLAN
A description of how your business will be ?nanced and
how you will maintain a sound ?nancial condition will
answer the following questions:
A. Current Funding Requirement
• How much money will be needed for starting
your business?
• What will be the sources of startup capital?
• What business and personal assets will be
pledged as collateral?
B. Use of Funds
• How will the money be spent (working capital,
capital expenditures, etc.)?
• How will borrowed funds make your business
more pro?table?
C. Long-Range Financial Strategies
• How will you liquidate your investors’ position?
• What terms of repayment are feasible?
• What will you do if repayment cannot be
accomplished as planned?
D. Financial Statements
To support this section, several ?nancial statements
will be required, such as the following:
• Personal ?nancial statement of owner
• Business startup costs
• Pro forma cash ?ow analysis (expected)
• Balance sheet (actual or proposed)
• Income statement (actual or proposed)
• Breakeven analysis
• Competitive analysis
See wor ks heet s on t he f ol l owi ng pages .
VII. STRATEGIC PLAN
It is important to include a description of where you want
your venture to be in the next few years and how you
intend to achieve those goals.
This strategic plan should focus on years two through ?ve
and include descriptions of the following items:
• Strengths within your organization
• Weaknesses within your organization
• Opportunities available to you
• Threats impeding you
Using these four factors, you should describe strategies
that use your strengths to take advantage of opportunities
and overcome threats and strategies to reduce
weaknesses and avoid threats to your business. They
should identify intermediate goals (yearly) and the
marketing, management and ?nancial resources to
achieve these goals.
Be sure your goals are SMART goals (Speci?c, Measurable,
Achievable, Relevant, Timely).
Special thanks and appreciation to
Roger S. Robinson, Ph.D., Greater Phoenix SCORE, for his time and support in developing this section.
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B U S I NE S S R E S E A R CH R E S OU R CE S
Arizona Commerce Authority
www.azcommerce.com, select “Facts & Figures”
Arizona Commerce Authority, Small Business Services
www.azcommerce.com/services/small-business-services
Arizona Department of Administration
Of?ce of Employment and Population Statistics
www.azstats.gov
Arizona State University’s W.P. Carey School of Business
Center for Competitiveness and Prosperity Researchhttp://wpcarey.asu.edu/seid/ccpr
Arizona State University’s W.P. Carey School of Business
JP Morgan Chase Economic Outlook Centerhttp://wpcarey.asu.edu/seid/eoc
BizStats
www.bizstats.com
Northern Arizona University’s W. A. Franke College of
Business, Arizona Rural Policy Institute (ARPI)
www.franke.nau.edu/RPI
University of Arizona’s Eller College of Management
Economic and Business Research Centerhttp://ebr.eller.arizona.edu
U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)
www.bea.gov
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
www.bls.gov
U.S. Census Bureau, Economic Census
www.census.gov/econ/census/index.html
U.S. Census Bureau, North American Industry
Classi?cation System (NAICS)
www.census.gov/eos/www/naics
U.S. Department of Commerce
www.commerce.gov
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC),
Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval
(EDGAR)
www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml
Visit Your Local Library . . .
It’s a great resource for every stage of your business development.
Librarians will help you ?nd information on every phase of business ownership,
information on writing the business plan, and electronic databases where you can
research industries and competitors.
In addition, libraries provide free access to the Internet. Many libraries present free
programs, workshops and book lists on business topics. To ?nd your local library,
visit the website at www.lib.az.us/LibDir.
Visit the IRS website at
www.irs.gov/businesses
to learn what new
business owners
need to know about
starting a business.
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As of: _____/_____/_________
Assets Amount in Dollars
Cash – checking accounts $___________________________
Cash – savings accounts $___________________________
Certi?cates of deposit $___________________________
Securities – stocks / bonds / mutual funds* $___________________________
Notes and contracts receivable* $___________________________
Life insurance (cash surrender value) $___________________________
Personal property (autos, jewelry, etc.)* $___________________________
Retirement funds (IRAs, 401k, etc.) $___________________________
Real estate (market value) $___________________________
Other assets (specify)* ___________________________________________________________ $___________________________
Total Assets $__________________________
Liabilities Amount in Dollars
Current debt (credit cards, accounts) $___________________________
Notes payable* $___________________________
Taxes payable* $___________________________
Real estate mortgages* $___________________________
Other liabilities (specify)*_______________________________________________________ $___________________________
Total Liabilities $__________________________
Net Worth $__________________________
*Describe in the appropriate section below.
1. Describe securities – stocks/bonds/mutual funds:
2. Describe notes and contracts receivable:
3. Describe personal property:
4. Describe other assets:
5. Describe notes payable:
6. Describe taxes payable:
7. Describe real estate mortgages:
8. Describe other liabilities:
P e r s o n a l F i n a n c i a l S t a t e me n t Wo r k s h e e t
AZ EE 9
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10 AZ EE
As of: _____/_____/_________
Living Expenses
From last pay check to opening day $___________________________
For three months after opening day (startup cushion) $___________________________
Deposits, Licenses, Prepayments
Deposit for rent $___________________________
Telephone and utilities $___________________________
Business licenses $___________________________
Insurance premiums $___________________________
Leasehold Improvements $___________________________
Remodeling and redecorating $___________________________
Fixtures, equipment, displays $___________________________
Installation labor $___________________________
Signs – outside, inside
Inventory
Service, delivery equipment and supplies $___________________________
Merchandise (approx. 65% of startup costs are invested in opening stock) $___________________________
Operating Expense for the First 3 Months (From Cash Flow Projection) $___________________________
Reserve to Carry Customers’ Accounts $___________________________
Cash for Petty Cash, etc. $___________________________
TOTAL STARTUP CASH NEEDS $__________________________
B u s i n e s s S t a r t u p Co s t s Wo r k s h e e t
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AZ EE 11
As of: _____/_____/_________
Cash Receipts
Cash Sales $___________________________
Cash from Accounts Receivable $___________________________
Cash from Investments $___________________________
Total Cash Receipts $__________________________
Cash Disbursements
Merchandise, inventory $___________________________
Salary and wages $___________________________
Outside labor $___________________________
Payroll taxes $___________________________
Advertising $___________________________
Car and delivery $___________________________
General of?ce administration $___________________________
Legal and accounting $___________________________
Operating supplies $___________________________
Bad debts $___________________________
Rent $___________________________
Repairs and maintenance $___________________________
Utilities $___________________________
Insurance $___________________________
Taxes and licenses $___________________________
Loan payments (principal and interest) $___________________________
Total Cash Disbursements $__________________________
NET CASH FLOW (+/-) $__________________________
P r o F o r ma Ca s h F l o w A n a l y s i s Wo r k s h e e t
NOTE: This analysis should be done on a monthly basis for the first year and on a quarterly basis for years 2 and 3.
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As of: _____/_____/_________
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash in bank $___________________________
Accounts receivable $___________________________
Inventory $___________________________
Other current assets $___________________________
Total Current Assets $__________________________
Fixed Assets
Machinery & equipment $___________________________
Furniture & ?xtures $___________________________
Land & buildings $___________________________
Other ?xed assets $___________________________
Total Fixed Assets (net of depreciation) $__________________________
TOTAL ASSETS $__________________________
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current Liabilities
Accounts payable $___________________________
Interest payable $___________________________
Taxes payable $___________________________
Notes, short-term (due within 12 months) $___________________________
Current part, long-term debt $___________________________
Other current liabilities $___________________________
Total Current Liabilities $__________________________
Long-Term Debt
Bank loans payable $___________________________
Notes payable to stockholders $___________________________
LESS: Short-term portion $___________________________
Other long-term debt $___________________________
Total Long-term Debt $__________________________
Owners’ Equity
Invested capital $___________________________
Retained earnings – beginning $___________________________
Retained earnings – current $___________________________
Total Owners’ Equity $__________________________
TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY $__________________________
As of: _____/_____/_________
(3 Previous Years for Existing Business) YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3
SALES $__________________________ $__________________________ $__________________________
Less Cost of Goods $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
GROSS PROFIT $__________________________ $__________________________ $__________________________
OPERATING EXPENSES
Salaries and wages $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Commissions $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Outside labor $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Payroll taxes $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Advertising $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Car and delivery $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
General of?ce administration $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Legal and accounting $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Supplies $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Bad debts $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Rent $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Repairs and maintenance $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Utilities $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Insurance $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Taxes and licenses $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Depreciation $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Interest $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Miscellaneous $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES $__________________________ $__________________________ $__________________________
PROFIT/LOSS BEFORE TAXES $__________________________ $__________________________ $__________________________
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S O U R C E S O F H E L P
F O R Y O U R B U S I N E S S
16 • Business Assistance and Counseling
» Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) 16
» U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) 17
» Arizona Small Business Development Center Network (AZSBDC) 18
» SCORE Arizona 20
22 • Tribal Resources
23
• Entrepreneurship Programs and Business Incubators
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to
the fact that much of the information is created by external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
2
Busi ness Assi st ance and Counsel i ng
The Governor’s Statewide Development conference is a gathering of Arizona’s business and economic development leaders
to discuss best practices and the advancement of Arizona in the global marketplace.
A R I Z ONA COMME R CE A U T HOR I T Y ( A CA )
The ACA is your ?rst stop for developing a successful business. Armed with a growing toolbox of resources, the
business development team provides assistance to help you start, operate and grow your company.
ARE YOU GETTING READY TO
START YOUR BUSINESS?
The ACA is your centralized resource for information on
business licensing and statewide resources to start and
become operational.
ARE YOU SEEKING SKILLED NEW HIRES OR
EXISTING WORKER TRAINING RESOURCES?
The ACA offers a network of one-stop centers and value-
added online services to help you increase your staff’s
skills through job training grants or create a custom-
designed apprenticeship program.
ARE YOU READY TO EXPAND TO
INTERNATIONAL MARKETS?
The ACA will introduce you to quality contacts at a variety
of trade events around the globe and provide you with
individualized counseling, trade missions and the most
recent statistics on trade and current market research
information.
ARE YOU MANUFACTURING A PRODUCT?
The ACA can connect you to helpful resources and assist
you in expanding your market.
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN BRINGING YOUR
TECHNOLOGY TO MARKET?
The ACA supports technology-oriented businesses and
provides links to resources and ideas from innovative
leaders throughout Arizona.
B U S I N E S S A S S I S T A N C E A N D C O U N S E L I N G
ARIZONA’S INCENTIVES, PROGRAMS, AND
GRANTS ADMINISTERED BY ACA
The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) is a business-
savvy organization focused on producing results that
bene?t businesses and the Arizona economy. For
information on Arizona’s incentives, programs and grants
administered by ACA, visit www.azcommerce.com
select “Incentives.”
RELOCATING TO ARIZONA
Working closely with economic partners around the
state, the Arizona Commerce Authority’s Business
Attraction division serves as a single statewide
point of contact to provide the information and
support services needed to properly evaluate the
business opportunities and operating environment
anywhere in Arizona. Visit the ACA website at
www.azcommerce.com, under “Services” select
“Relocating to Arizona” for more information.
333 N. Central Avenue
Suite 1900
Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-845-1200; 800-542-5684
www.azcommerce.com
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16 AZ EE
U . S . S MA L L B U S I NE S S A D MI NI S T R AT I ON ( S B A )
B U S I N E S S A S S I S T A N C E A N D C O U N S E L I N G
AZ EE 17
The SBA and its nationwide network of partners help millions of potential and current small business owners start,
grow and succeed.
SBA RESOURCES
SBA Direct
www.sba.gov/sba-direct
SBA Small Business Resource Guide
www.sbaguides.com, click on “Arizona”
SBA Answer Desk
800-U-ASK-SBA (800-827-5722)
Of?ce of Advocacy
www.sba.gov/advocacy
Of?ce of Native American Affairs
www.sba.gov/about-of?ces-content/1/2960
Of?ce of Veterans Business Development
www.sba.gov/about-of?ces-content/1/2985
Of?ce of Women’s Business Ownership (OWBO)
www.sba.gov/content/about-owbo
SBA ARIZONA
DISTRICT OFFICES
www.sba.gov/az
2828 N. Central Avenue, Suite 800
Phoenix, AZ 85004-1093
602-745-7200
405 W. Congress Street, Suite 1807
Tucson, AZ 85701
520-620-7042
1201 E. Cooley Avenue, Suite E
Show Low, AZ 85901
928-532-0034
SBA offers resources and programs targeted for small
businesses to provide the advantage necessary to help
them effectively compete in the marketplace and
strengthen the overall U.S. economy.
STARTING YOUR BUSINESS
SBA representatives provide assistance to help you:
• Develop a business plan
• Make contacts
• Access resources
• Complete loan application(s)
Special-emphasis programs offered to assist:
• Native Americans
• Socially and economically disadvantaged citizens
• Veterans
• Women
FINANCING YOUR BUSINESS
Financing resources:
• Loan guarantees enable ?nancial institutions to
provide loans to small businesses that would not
otherwise qualify for ?nancing.
• Major ?xed-asset loans provide for the purchase of
land and buildings.
• Surety bond guarantees aid to small and minority
construction contractors.
• Equity investing matches venture capitalists with
small businesses.
• Export assistance to be part of the global economy.
GROWING YOUR BUSINESS
Consult with the experts to identify growth opportunities:
• Funding small business expansion with loan
guarantees
• Improving product diversi?cations
• Exploring export options
• Improving marketing and sales
• Making capital investments
• Increasing competitiveness
SBA WORKSHOPS
• SBA Loan Clinic
• Selling to the Federal Government
For schedules, visit the SBA website at www.sba.gov/az
or call 602-745-7200.
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ARIZONA SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER NETWORK (AZSBDC)
AZSBDC is Arizona’s largest and most accessible statewide source of assistance for small businesses at every stage of
development. Services include free, one-on-one business counseling, planning assistance, technology development
and identifying sources of capital are only some of the services that they provide. They also have special initiatives in
veteran assistance, clean technology and government contracting.
The AZSBDC Network’s service centers, satellites and/or meeting locations provide access to professional business
counselors, analysts and technology specialists. It’s partnership with the SBA and the Association of Small Business
Development Centers puts nationwide resources within your reach. For locations and contact information, visit the
AZSBDC website at www.azsbdc.net.
18 AZ EE
AZSBDC Centers
Satel l i te/Meeti ng Locati on
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LOCATIONS
1. AZSBDC Network
State Of?ce
Arizona - District Of?ce
2411 W. 14th Street
Room 114
Tempe, AZ 85281
480-731-8720
Administrative Services Only
2. Cochise College SBDC
901 N. Colombo
Room 717
Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
520-515-5478
2a. Cochise College/Satellite
4190 W. AZ Highway 80
Bldg 100, Room 106
Douglas, AZ 85607
520-515-5478
By Appointment Only
3. Coconino Community
College SBDC
3000 N. 4th Street
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
928-526-7653
3a. Coconino Community
College, Page Campus
475 S. Lake Powell Boulevard
Page, AZ 86040
928-645-6687
4. Gila Community
College SBDC
201 Mudsprings Road
Payson, AZ 85547-0359
928-468-8039
4a. Gila Pueblo Campus
8274 Six Shooter Canyon
Globe, AZ 85502
928-425-8481
4b. San Carlos Campus
Tonto and Mesa Drive
San Carlos, AZ 85550
877-224-7232
5. Eastern Arizona
College SBDC
615 N. Stadium Avenue
Thatcher, AZ 85552-0769
928-428-8590
6. Maricopa Community
Colleges SBDC
2400 N. Central Avenue
Suite 104
Phoenix, AZ 85004
480-784-0590
6a. Estrella Mountain Skill
Center/Satellite
Estrella Mountain Campus
3000 N. Dysart Road
Avondale, AZ 85392
480-784-0590
6b. City of Chandler/
Satellite
Innovations Incubator
145 S. 79th Avenue
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-784-0590
6c. Center for
Entrepreneurial
Innovation, GateWay
Community College/
Satellite
275 N. Gateway Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85034
602-286-8954
6d. Mesa Community
College/Satellite
165 Centennial Way
Room 209
Mesa, AZ 85201
480-784-0590
6e. Paradise Valley
Community College/
Satellite
18401 N. 32nd Street
Bldg J, Room 131
Phoenix, AZ 85032
480-784-0590
6f. Rio Salado Community
College/Satellite
Lifelong Learning Center
12535 Smokey Drive
Room 1037
Surprise, AZ 85378
480-784-0590
7. Mohave Community
College SBDC
1971 Jagerson Avenue
Kingman, AZ 86409
928-757-0894
8. Northland Pioneer
College SBDC
1001 Deuce of Clubs,
Rooms 107- 109
Show Low, AZ 85901
928-532-6170
9. Microbusiness
Advancement Center
SBDC
330 N. Commerce Park Loop
Suite 160
Tucson, AZ 85745
520-620-1241
10. Central Arizona
College SBDC
540 N. Camino Mercado
Casa Grande, AZ 85222
520-494-6610
10a. Central Arizona
College, San Tan Center
2474 E. Hunt Highway
Suite 100
San Tan Valley, AZ 85143-
5210
520-494-6727
10b. Superstition
Mountain Campus
273 Old West Highway
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
520-494-6610
11. Yavapai College SBDC
240 S. Montezuma Street
Suite 105
Prescott, AZ 86303
928-776-2008
11a. City of Cottonwood
Economic Development
Of?ce/Satellite
821 N. Main Street
Cottonwood, AZ 86324
928-776-2008
11b. Sedona Chamber of
Commerce/Satellite
45 Sunset Drive
Sedona, AZ 86336
928-776-2008
12. Arizona Western
College SBDC
1351 South Redondo
Center Drive, Suite 101
Yuma, AZ 85365
928-317-6151
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ARIZONA SCORE LOCATIONS
Greater Phoenix SCORE
Phoenix Of?ce
2828 N. Central Avenue, Suite 800, Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-745-7250
EVIT Mesa Of?ce
1601 W. Main Street, Mesa, AZ 85201
www.greaterphoenix.score.org
Serves Phoenix, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Buckeye,
Glendale, Avondale, El Mirage, Goodyear, Laveen,
Litch?eld Park, Peoria, Sun City, Sun City West,
Tolleson, Youngtown, Surprise, Payson, Mesa, Tempe,
Chandler, Gilbert, Apache Junction, Queen Creek and
vicinities.
Northern Arizona SCORE
1228 Willow Creek Road, Suite 2, Prescott, AZ 86301
928-778-7438
www.northernarizona.score.org
Serves Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley,
Cottonwood, Sedona, Flagstaff, Kingman, Lake
Havasu City and surrounding communities.
Southern Arizona SCORE
330 N. Commerce Park Loop Drive, Suite 160
Tucson, AZ 85745
520-762-9415
www.southernarizona.score.org
Serves Tucson, Green Valley, Sierra Vista, Eloy, and
vicinities.
S COR E A R I Z ONA – F OR T HE L I F E OF Y OU R B U S I NE S S
SCORE is a non-pro?t association dedicated to educating
entrepreneurs and helping small businesses start, grow
and succeed. It is a resource partner with the SBA that
has been mentoring small business owners for more than
40 years.
As an organization, SCORE is dedicated to the further
enhancement and development of the economic base of
the community and to the creation of jobs.
• SCORE mentors, comprised of active and retired
business men and women, provide clients with free and
con?dential business counseling. Counseling can be
conducted either at the client’s place of business, at the
SCORE of?ce, by telephone or via email.
• SCORE representatives from the local business
community conduct a variety of regularly scheduled,
low-cost educational programs that provide valuable
information and techniques necessary for establishing
and managing a successful business.
Visit the SCORE website at www.score.org.
Microbusiness Advancement Center (MAC)
330 N. Commerce Park Loop, Suite 160
Tucson, AZ 85745
520-620-1241http://mac-sa.org
The Microbusiness Advancement Center (MAC) is
a non-pro?t organization that helps individuals start,
fund and grow their businesses by providing quality
business education and access to capital. MAC drives
the development of small businesses in Southern Arizona
by providing clients with training programs, microloans
and other resources.
In addition, MAC serves as SBA’s Women’s Business
Center (WBC). The WBC program offers entrepreneurs,
especially women, comprehensive training and counseling
on a vast array of business-related topics to help them
start and grow local businesses. MAC also hosts the local
Small Business Development Center.
MAC receives partial funding from the SBA, the City of
Tucson, United Way, foundations, corporate and individual
donors. To learn more, attend one of their free weekly
orientation sessions. Orientations in English are offered
every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Orientations
in Spanish are held every Thursday at 5:00 p.m.
FEDERAL RESOURCE
USA.Gov
www.usa.gov/directory/federal/index.shtml
A-Z Index of U.S. Government Departments and Agencies
VETERAN SERVICES
Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services
www.azdvs.gov
SBA, Of?ce of Veterans Business Development
www.sba.gov/about-of?ces-content/1/2985
SBA, Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC)
www.sba.gov/content/veterans-business-outreach-centers
SCORE, Veteran Fast Launch Initiativehttp://vetsfastlaunch.org
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
www.vetbiz.gov
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AZ EE 21
MICROLENDERS PROVIDING TECHNICAL
SUPPORT
PPEP Microbusiness and
Housing Development Corporation, Inc.
806 E. 46th Street, Tucson, AZ 85713
520-889-4203; 800-293-2974
www.pmhdc.net/loans.html
Serves Cochise, Santa Cruz, Pinal, Yuma and rural
Maricopa counties and the Navajo Nation.
Prestamos CDFI Small Business Lending
(A Subsidiary of Chicanos Por La Causa, Inc.)
1122 E. Buckeye Road, Suite B-4, Phoenix, AZ 85034
602-258-9911
www.prestamosloanfund.org
Phoenix MBDA Business Center
255 E. Osborn Road, Suite 202, Phoenix, AZ 85012
602-248-0007; 800-428-7299http://phoenixmbdacenter.com
The Phoenix MBDA Business Center is federally funded
by the Minority Business Development Agency, U.S.
Department of Commerce and is locally operated by the
Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. The Center is
focused on securing large public and private contracts
and ?nancing transactions, stimulating job creation
and retention, and facilitating entry to global markets
for eligible minority-owned businesses. The Center
serves eligible MBEs with annual revenues of more than
$1,000,000, or participants in a high-growth industry (e.g.
green technology, clean energy, health care, infrastructure
and broadband technology, among others).
U.S. Commercial Service, Export Assistance Centers
2828 N. Central Avenue, Suite 800, Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-640-2513
1475 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 200
Scottsdale, AZ 85257
602-640-2513
33 N. Stone Avenue, Suite 830, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-670-5540http://export.gov/arizona
With three Export Assistance Centers in Arizona, the U.S.
Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce
is a federal government agency dedicated to helping
small and medium-sized Arizona companies develop
international markets. Whether you’re looking to make
your ?rst export sale or expand to additional international
markets, they offer the trade counseling, market
intelligence, business matchmaking, and commercial
diplomacy you need to connect with lucrative business
opportunities. In addition, they will help you to develop
trade ?nance and insurance strategies that align with your
particular business objectives and help you complete your
export transaction.
ARIZONA SERVICE PROVIDERS NETWORK
ACA Small Business Services (SBS) forges collaborations
with statewide organizations under the Arizona Service
Providers Network umbrella to increase the scope of
services, resources and expertise available in the
Arizona small business community.
Most Network members facilitate effective outreach
programs and services targeted for starting, operating
and growing a business. For a listing of members and
links to their websites, visit the ACA website at
www.azcommerce.com, under “About Us” select
“Events.”
The Northern Arizona Council of Government’s Business
Assistance Center (BAC), www.nacog.org, provides
support for new and expanding small businesses in
Yavapai County. They also assist businesses with labor
development options offered through NACOG-EWD.
Better Business Bureau (BBB)
4428 N. 12th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85014
602-264-1721; 877-291-6222
www.arizonabbb.org
Serving Central, Northern and Western Arizona
BBB of Southern Arizona
5151 E. Broadway Boulevard, Suite 100
Tucson, AZ 85711
520-888-5353
www.tucson.bbb.org
Serving Tucson and Southeastern Arizona
The Better Business Bureau’s services include reliability
reports on particular companies, mediation and arbitration
for business-oriented disputes, consumer “tips on”
brochures on many subjects, reports on national charities,
and news alerts on scams, frauds and schemes.
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T R I B A L R E S O U R C E S
CENTER FOR AMERICAN INDIAN
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (CAIED)
928-523-7320http://franke.nau.edu/caied
Located at the W. A. Franke College of Business,
Northern Arizona University, CAIED is a resource center
for Arizona’s twenty-two tribal nations and communities.
Services include technical assistance, business consulting
and training, and educational workshops. CAIED provides
a website with a database library offering current
information on Arizona tribes, Indian economic
development, and general development issues.
NATIVE NATIONS INSTITUTE (NNI)
520-626-0664
www.nni.arizona.edu
NNI at the University of Arizona provides Native
nations with comprehensive, professional training and
development programs speci?cally designed to meet the
needs of indigenous leadership and management.
NATIVE PEOPLES
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE OFFICE
520-626-9181
www.nptao.arizona.edu
The University of Arizona Native Peoples Technical
Assistance Of?ce, in partnership with Native communities
throughout Arizona, provides a comprehensive program
of university-based technical assistance, technology
transfer and research, and educational opportunities for
Native peoples across Arizona and beyond.
TRIBAL RESOURCES
Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED)
Tribal Economic Development Committee
www.aaed.com, under “About AAED” select
“Committees” for “Tribal Economic Development”
Arizona Commission of Indian Affairs
www.azcia.gov
Arizona Tribal Library Resources
www.azlibrary.gov/extension/tribal.aspx
Governor’s Of?ce of Equal Opportunity
www.azgovernor.gov/eop
National Center for American Indian Enterprise
Development (NCAIED)
www.ncaied.org
National Center for Teaming Alliances (NCTA)
www.ncaied.org/ncta/about-ncta
Nineteen Tribal Nations Workforce Investment
Area/Boardhttps://ina.workforce3one.org
State of Arizona – Tribal Liaisonhttp://azcia.gov/tribal_liaison_group.asp
UIDA Business Services/AIPTAC
www.ncaied.org/mcs/uida-consulting-group
U.S. Department of the Interior
Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA)
www.bia.gov
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
Of?ce of Native American Affairs
www.sba.gov/about-of?ces-content/1/2960
The Inter Tribal Council of Arizona is a non-pro?t corporation established by Tribal Governments to provide member
tribes a uni?ed voice to promote sovereignty. For a listing of member tribes and their contact information, please visit
their website athttp://itcaonline.com, select “member tribes.
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E N T R E P R E N E U R S H I P P R O G R A M S
A N D B U S I N E S S I N C U B A T O R S
UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA,
Eller College of Management,
McGuire Center for Entrepreneurship
520-621-2576
www.entrepreneurship.eller.arizona.edu
The McGuire Center for Entrepreneurship at University
of Arizona, Eller College of Management, is committed
to enabling and advancing entrepreneurial goals of all
university populations. The Center prepares business
students to develop their own ventures or bring innovation
to the marketplace in a corporate environment. Through
it’s host of partnerships, the Center is committed to
entrepreneurship, business development and technology
transfer.
BUSINESS INCUBATORS
Business incubators are designed to provide a structured
program to developing technology companies which
includes access to ?rst-class facilities, coaching,
networking and other services. A list of Arizona’s
incubators, accelerators, and shared work space facilities
can be found at www.azcommerce.com.
ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY,
W. P. Carey School of Business
The Spirit of Enterprise Center
480-965-0474
www.spiritofenterprise.org
The Spirit of Enterprise Center – Where Campus Meets
Community™ – is part of the W. P. Carey School of Business
on the Tempe campus of Arizona State University. The
center offers innovative programs that bene?t students
and the business community. The center is home to the
prestigious Spirit of Enterprise Awards, presented each
year to outstanding entrepreneurial companies.
NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY,
The W. A. Franke College of Business
928-523-3657
www.franke.nau.edu
The W. A. Franke College of Business at Northern Arizona
University provides high-quality business-related training,
education, consulting and information resources to
businesses, non-pro?t organizations, tribes and
government agencies throughout Arizona’s rural and
northern communities.
UNIVERSITY INCUBATORS
ASU Venture Catalyst
480-884-1860 asuventurecatalyst.org
Northern Arizona Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology (NACET)
928-213-9234 www.nacet.org
Arizona Center for Innovation (AZCI)
520-382-3260 www.azinnovation.com
F I NA NCI NG Y OU R B U S I NE S S
25 • Financing Options
» SBA’s Loan Guaranty Programs 26
» Commercial Loans 29
» SBA Micro Lenders 29
30 • Funding Sources
» Arizona’s Incentives, Programs, and Grants 31
» Funding for Innovation and Technology Companies 32
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to the
fact that much of the information is created by external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
3
Fi nanci al Opt i ons and Fundi ng Sour ces
24 AZ EE
The ACA’s Access to Capital Academy presented by the Phoenix Community & Economic Development and Investment Corporation (PCDIC) –
helps entrepreneurs learn how to approach potential lenders with confdence and an increased chance at securing loans.
AZ EE 25
F I N A N C I N G O P T I O N S
There are several sources to consider when looking for
?nancing. It is important to explore all of your options
before making a decision.
The primary source of capital for most new businesses
come from personal savings and other forms of personal
resources such as friends and family, when starting out.
While credit cards often are used to ?nance business
needs, there may be better options available, even for
very small loans. Often, money is loaned interest-free or
at a low rate which can be bene?cial.
The most common source of funding, banks, and credit
unions will provide a loan if you can show a sound business
proposal.
Generally, there are no grants to individuals to start or
expand a small business.
The best source for federal grant programs is
www.grants.gov. You can sign up for automatic updates,
and the site also includes useful information regarding
the federal grants submission process.
BORROWI NG MONEY
Lenders are not in the business of taking risks.
Consequently, they have conservative and basic guidelines
for ?nancing.
A common loan criteria is known as the Five C’s: Capacity,
Collateral, Credit, Character and Conditions:
Capacity – the customer’s ability to repay the loan
based on the business’ cash ?ow. Capacity should be
demonstrated on a historical (?nancial statements,
three years of business tax returns, etc.) and
prospective (projections) basis.
Collateral – property pledged by a borrower to protect
the interest of the lender. By putting up collateral, you
show that you are committed to the success of your
business.
A ?nancial institution avoids making loans without
collateral. With an SBA loan, ?nancial institution may
relax some portion of its lending criteria.
Credit – you have paid your debts more or less on time,
no history of bankruptcy or creditor lawsuits, and have
proven that you can use credit effectively. Lenders
normally investigate both the company’s and the
owner’s past credit history.
Character – the most subjective ingredient within the
formula. It encompasses the lender’s perceptions and
analysis of the borrower’s reputation and integrity,
background and experience, ?nancial sophistication,
involvement and persistence.
Conditions – the terms of loan, including loan amount,
interest rate and credit policies established by the
?nancial institution.
APPLYI NG FOR LOANS
Businesses seeking ?nancing will need:
• A completed loan application
• Three years of ?scal year-end business ?nancial
statements, including income statements and balance
sheets
• Current, year-to-date business ?nancial statements >
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AP P L Y I NG F OR L OANS ( c o n t i n u e d )
• Current personal ?nancial statements from anyone
owning 20 percent or more of the business
• Two years of personal income veri?cation
• Management resumes
• A business debt schedule
LOAN PROPOSAL
To be successful obtaining a loan, you must be prepared
and organized. Know exactly how much money you need,
why you need it, and how you will pay it back. You must be
able to convince your lender that you are a good credit
risk.
Review the Business Planning section in Chapter 1
– the ?nancial worksheets will help you prepare for
your loan proposal.
Be prepared to fully discuss the
• Size of Loan – Be prepared to clearly identify the
total funds needed. Be speci?c.
• Owner Equity – In most cases, the owner(s) will be
expected to provide up to 50-percent of the funds
required. This assures the lender that the business
owners have a signi?cant personal investment in the
project.
• How Funds Are to Be Used – Be prepared to provide
a detailed outline of the use of loan funds. Most loans
are for one of the followings reasons: (a) to purchase
new equipment; (b) to pay off existing debts; or (c) to
expand the business.
• Why Your Company is a Good Credit Risk – Brie?y
explain why your company has been, and will continue
to be a good credit risk, and how this loan will help.
• Personal Credit Record – The personal credit record
of each owner or of?cer will be reviewed by the
lender. Be prepared to discuss ?nancial records of
your business and all owners or of?cers.
• Payback Plan – Clearly demonstrate how your
company will be able to repay the loan. Information
must include cash-?ow projections. Your detailed
business plan will provide valuable information for
your lender.
• Alternative Payback Plan – The alternative payback
plan clearly shows the lenders how the loan will be
paid if your business fails.
See Chapter 2, Business Assistance and Counseling,
for organizations that provide technical support in
developing business plans.
Why a loan is declined? There are many reasons why
a lender will decline a business loan request. They may
range from a poorly conceived business idea to having
little or no collateral. Ask the lender why your loan was
declined – Remember, if it’s “no” today, learn how to
make it “yes” tomorrow!
SBA’S LOAN GUARANTY PROGRAMS
The SBA offers a wide variety of loan programs. See the
next page for it’s loan guaranty programs.
26 AZ EE
AZ EE 27
U. S . S MAL L B US I NE S S ADMI NI S T R AT I ON L OAN P R OGR AMS
Information accurate as of 2/23/2012 • All SBA programs and services are provided on a nondiscriminatory basis.
7( a) LOAN PROGRAM
Pr ogr am
Maxi mum
Amount
Us e of Pr oc eeds Mat ur i t y
Maxi mum
I nt er es t Rat e
St r uc t ur e Who Qual i f i es Benef i t t o Bor r ower s
Standard 7(a):
Applicant applies
for business loan
to lender; Lender
applies to SBA for
guaranty of their
proposed loan if
they determine it
is necessary. Loan
from lender, not
SBA.
$5 million
to any
one
business,
including
af?liates.
Expansion/renovation;
new construction,
purchase land or
buildings; purchase
equipment, ?xtures,
lease-hold
improvements; working
capital; inventory,
business acquisition,
startups and re?nancing
under certain conditions
(discuss with lender).
Depends on use
of proceeds
and ability to
repay. Generally
working capital
and machinery &
equipment loans
have 5-10 years;
real estate is up
to 25 years. Term
negotiated with
lender.
SBA sets a
maximum rate
for both
variable
and ?xed-rates
loans (discuss
with lender or
local SBA
District Of?ce
for current
information).
Term loan with one
payment of
principal and
interest (P&I)
each month.
Interest variable
or ?xed as
negotiated with
lender. Cannot be
revolving. SBA
charges a Guaranty
Fee.**
Must be for-pro?t and
meet SBA size
standards; show good
character, credit,
management, and
ability to repay; must
be an eligible type of
business, use
proceeds for eligible
purpose, and
demonstrate that
credit is not otherwise
available.
Business able to obtain
?nancing which
otherwise would not
be provided due to
term, collateral, equity,
and/or time in
business. Fixed
maturity; No balloons;
No prepayment
penalty if maturity
under 15 years.
Establish or re-af?rm
businessrelationship
with a lender.
International
Trade: Long term
?nancing to help
businesses
engaged in
exporting or
adversely
impacted by
imports.
Same as
Standard
7(a).
Acquire, renovate,
modernize facilities or
equipment used in
making products or
services to be exported,
plus permanent working
capital and re?nance
debt not structured
with reasonable terms.
Same as
Standard 7(a).
Same as
Standard 7(a).
Same as Standard
7(a). Maximum
SBA guaranty
amount for
working capital is
$4 million.
Same as Standard
7(a) plus businesses
must be engaged or
preparing to engage
in international trade
or adversely affected
by competition from
imports.
Same as Standard
7(a) plus long-term
?nancing for ?xed
assets used to produce
products or services
for export.
Export Working
Capital Program:
Single transaction
or Revolving
Working Capital
lines of credit for
exporters.
Same as
Standard
7(a).
Short-term, working
capital for exporters.
Can be single
transaction or revolving.
Standby Letters of
Credit for export
purposes.
Generally one
year, but can be
up to 3 years to
match a single
transaction cycle.
Established by
lender. No SBA
established
maximums.
Short term
revolving
line of credit
based on
borrowing base or
export purchase
orders. Monthly
interest payments;
principal
payments based
on collection of
foreign receivables.
Same as Standard 7(a)
plus must have been in
business for at
least one year and
preparing to engage
in or increase
international trade.
Same as Standard 7(a)
plus provides working
capital to American
Exporters to perform
on export transactions
and/or ?nance export
receivables. Ability
to Financing Standby
Letters of Credit for
export purposes.
CAPLines: Four
different Revolving
Lines of Credit,
a/k/a Seasonal,
Contract Builders,
Working Capital.
Same as
Standard
7(a).
Finances: seasonal
working capital needs,
direct cost to perform
assignable contracts,
construction costs of
structure for resale,
or advances against
existing inventory and
receivables.
Up to 10 years. Same as
Standard 7(a).
Revolving line of
credit with
monthly interest
and principal
payments based
on when the
business receives
the cash for doing
the activity the
loan proceeds
?nanced.
Same as Standard 7(a)
plus a business that
needs the specialized
proceeds this program
offers.
Same as Standard 7(a)
plus provides revolving
working capital not
otherwise available
to perform on an
assignable contract, to
cover seasonal needs,
to build or renovate
personal or
commercial space, and
to obtain funds against
existing current assets.
Also structured to
meet business needs.
SBAExpress:
Lender approves
the loan.
$350,000. Same as a Standard
7(a) or may be used
for a revolving working
capital line of credit.
Same as
Standard
7(a) for term
loans. Revolving
lines of credit up
to 7 years.
Loans $50,000
or less:
Prime + 6.5%.
Loans over
$50,000:
Prime + 4.5%.
Same as Standard
7(a) except lender
has more leeway
to structure
repayment under
their own rules.
Same as Standard
7(a).
Same as Standard 7(a)
plus streamlined
process; Easy-to-use
line of credit and
allows for a revolving
feature which
Standard 7(a) does
not.
Small Loan
Advantage:
lower-dollar loans
to under-served
areas.
$250,000. Same as Standard 7(a). Same as
Standard 7(a).
Loans up to
$150,000: 85%
Loans above
$150,000: 75%
Same as Standard
7(a).
Underserved markets. Stream-lined
application.
Rural Loan
Advantage: Rural-
based or small
community lender.
$350,000. Same as Standard 7(a). Same as
Standard 7(a).
Loans up to
$150,000: 85%
Loans above
$150,000: 75%
Same as Standard
7(a).
Rural and small
community markets
impacted by
population loss, high
unemployment.
Stream-lined
application.
** T he SBA c har ges t he l ender a guar ant y f ee bas ed on t he l oan’s mat ur i t y and t he dol l ar amount whi c h i s i ni t i al l y guar ant eed.
T he l ender c an pas s t hi s expens e t o t he bor r ower and l oan pr oc eeds c an be us ed t o r ei mbur s e t he l ender.
T he 7( a) Guar ant y Fee Ref er enc e Char t ( on next page) expl ai ns t he Agenc y ’s guar ant y f ee c har ges .
c ont i nued on next page >
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U. S . S MAL L B US I NE S S ADMI NI S T R AT I ON L OAN P R OGR AMS
Information accurate as of 2/23/2012 • All SBA programs and services are provided on a nondiscriminatory basis.
7( a) LOAN PROGRAM, CONT I NUED
Pr ogr am
Maxi mum
Amount
Us e of Pr oc eeds Mat ur i t y
Maxi mum
I nt er es t Rat e
St r uc t ur e Who Qual i f i es Benef i t t o Bor r ower s
Export Express:
Lender approves
the loan.
$500,000. Same as SBA Express
plus can be used
for Standby Letters
of Credit for export
purposes. Debt
re?nance is not
allowed.
Same as
SBA Express.
Same as
SBA Express.
Same as
SBA Express.
Same as SBA
Express plus loan
proceeds must be
used to support
export development
activity.
Same as SBA Express
plus provides lenders
with a higher
percentage guaranty
which can encourage
them to make more
loans to ?nance export-
development activities
of small businesses.
Standby Letters of
Credit are also
authorized.
Patriot Express:
Lender approves
the loan.
$500,000. Same as
Standard 7(a).
Same as
Standard 7(a).
Same as
Standard 7(a).
Same as
SBA Express.
Same as Standard
7(a) plus must be
owned and controlled
by one or more of
the following groups
equaling at least
51% total ownership:
veteran, active-duty
military, reservist
or National Guard
member or spouse of
any of these groups,
or widowed spouse
of service member
or veteran who died
during service or of
service-connected
disability.
Same as SBA Express
plus provides lenders
with a higher
percentage of
guaranty which can
encourage them to
make more loans to
quali?ed businesses.
Community
Advantage:
Alternative
Lenders assisting
businesses
located in areas
with high needs.
$250,000. Same as Standard 7(a)
except cannot be used
to re?nance loans made
by or guaranteed by the
Dept. of Agriculture or
loans by SBA Micro-
Lenders using their SBA
intermediary loan.
Same as
Standard 7(a).
Same as
Standard 7(a)
except
allowable
“Spread” is +
4% over the
base rate.
Allows mission-
oriented lenders
focused on
economic
development
in underserved
markets to apply
for 7(a) guaranty
on loan they
propose to make
to an eligible small
business.
Loan eligibility
requirements are
same as for Standard
7(a) loans, but the
business should
be located in an
underserved market .
Borrowers in
underserved markets
get more choices on
the types of lenders
who can provide them
?nancing if their
?nancing needs an
SBA guaranty and the
technical assistance
needs of the applicant
are assessed by the
lender.
NON 7( a) LOANS
504 Loans:
Fixed Asset
Project Financing
provided from
three sources.
SBA
portion
up to $5.0
million.
For the acquisition of
long-term ?xed-assets,
re?nancing long-term
?xed-asset debt under
certain conditions, and
working capital on a
limited basis.
Either 10 or 20
year term on
the SBA/CDC
portion.
Check with
local SBA
District Of?ce
for current
information.
Financing from
1. The CDC
Certi?ed
Development
Company.
2. Third Party
Lenders.
3. Applicant.
For-pro?t businesses
that do not exceed
$15.0 million in
tangible net worth
and do not have an
average net income
over $5 million for the
past 2 years.
Fees under 3 percent;
long-term ?xed rate;
low down payment;
full amortization; no
balloons.
Micro-Loans $50,000
total to
one small
business
borrower.
Furniture, ?xtures,
supplies, inventory,
equipment, and
working capital.
Shortest term
possible, not to
exceed 6 years.
Check with
local SBA
District Of?ce
for locations of
locally available
intermediary
lenders and
then check with
them.
Loans through
non-pro?t lending
organizations;
technical
assistance also
provided.
Same as 7(a) plus
loans can be made to
non-pro?t day care
businesses.
Direct loans from
non-pro?t
intermediary
lenders; Fixed-rate
?nancing; Very
small loan amounts;
Technical assistance
available.
7(a) GUARANTY
FEE REFERENCE
CHART
Gross Size of Loan Fees Notes
Loans of $150,000 or less (See Note 1)....2% of guaranteed portion, Lender is authorized to retain....Maturities that exceed 12 months
$150,001 to $700,000.......................................3% of guaranteed portion....................................................................Maturities that exceed 12 months
$700,001 to $5,000,000 (See Note 2)........3.5% of guaranteed portion up to $1,000,000 PLUS...............Maturities that exceed 12 months
3.75% of the guaranteed portion over $1,000,000
Short Term Loans – up to $5 million............0.25% of the guaranteed portion......................................................Maturities of 12 months or less
NOT E 1: T he guar ant y f ee on a $100, 000 l oan wi t h an 85% guar ant y woul d be 2% of $85, 000 or $1, 700, of whi c h t he l ender woul d r et ai n $425.
NOT E 2: T he guar ant y f ee on a $2, 000, 000 l oan wi t h a 75% guar ant y ( $1. 5 mi l l i on guar ant eed por t i on) woul d be, 3. 5% of $1, 000, 000 ( $35, 000) PL US 3. 75% of
$500, 000 ( $18, 750) , f or a t ot al of $53, 750.
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AZ EE 29
COMME R CI A L L OA NS
In Arizona, many businesses seek credit ?nancing through
a commercial bank. Commercial banks provide the
business community with a variety of ?nancing options
such as SBA guaranteed loans, commercial installment
loans, and letters of credit.
A loan of?cer from your bank can discuss which type of
loan will best meet your needs, outline the application
and procedures.
A variety of loan arrangements are available through
?nance companies, insurance companies and mortgage
bankers. Review lender ratings on the SBA website at
www.sba.gov/az, under “What’s New.”
SBA RESOURCES
Free clinics on how to prepare a SBA loan application
and approach a lender to improve chances for
approval. For schedules, visit the SBA website at www.
sba.gov/az or call 602-745-7200.
Finance Primer: A Guide to SBA’s Loan Guaranty
Programshttp://app1.sba.gov/training/sbafp.
The Small Business Resource magazine provides
information on ?nancing options to start or grow a
business and can be viewed online at www.sbaguides.com.
S B A MI CR O L E ND E R S :
F I NA NCI A L S E R V I CE S WI T H
T E CHNI CA L A S S I S TA NCE
Microloan programs provide small loans ranging from less
than $500 up to $50,000. As part of this program, the SBA
makes funds available to non-pro?t intermediaries that,
in turn, make the small loans directly to entrepreneurs.
Proceeds may be used for typical business purposes such as
working capital, purchase of furniture, ?xtures, machinery,
supplies, equipment and/or inventory. Microloans may not
be used for the purchase of real estate. Interest rates are
negotiated between the borrower and the intermediary.
PPEP Microbusiness & Housing Development Corp
(PMHDC)
802 E. 46th Street, Tucson, AZ 85713
520-889-4203; 800-293-2974
www.pmhdc.net/loans.html
Area Coverage: Cochise, Pima, Pinal, Santa Cruz, Yuma,
rural Maricopa counties and the Navajo Nation
Prestamos CDFI, LLC,
a subsidiary of Chicanos Por La Causa Inc. (CPLC)
1122 E. Buckeye Road, Suite B-4, Phoenix, AZ 85034
602-258-9911
www.prestamosloanfund.org
Area Coverage: All of Arizona
SBA LENDERS LOCATED IN ARIZONA
There are many conventional banks, credit
unions, and small business lending companies
that specialize in business loans. Many of
these lenders are authorized to handle SBA
guaranteed loans and other small business
?nancial programs. For a listing, www.sba.gov/az,
select “Arizona SBA Lender List.”
MICRO LENDERS
ACCION New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado
520-682-3648 www.accionnm.org
Area Coverage: Phoenix and Tucson
Neighborhood Economic Development Corporation
(NEDCO)
480-258-6927 www.nedco-mesa.org
Area Coverage: Phoenix and Phoenix-East Valley
The USDA Rural Development delivers a
variety of assistance to rural businesses and
communities. Several of the programs assist
rural small businesses (including farmers and
ranchers) directly. To view Arizona’s Business and
Cooperative Programs, visit USDA’s website at
www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/busp/bpdir.htm.
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F U N D I N G S O U R C E S
Many entrepreneurs believe that having an idea, patent,
or new product is all that is necessary to start and ?nance
a new venture. However, there are important factors to
consider before approaching traditional and alternative
capital funding resources.
Often, entrepreneurs are disappointed to learn that
professional investors don’t invest money in ideas or new
products. Sometimes ?nancing a new venture requires
creativity and resourcefulness. Some options include:
• Personal Resources – including personal funds,
credit cards, money from family and friends, and
home equity loans
• Equity Barter – trading equity in the company
in exchange for services, product development,
suppliers, goods, and management assistance prior
to getting funded
• Suppliers – negotiating terms or signing promissory
notes in lieu of cash payments
• Leasing – acquiring equipment through leasing
versus using a bank loan
• Licensing – letting another company incur the cost
of manufacturing, marketing and distribution in
exchange for the payment of royalties
• Strategic Partners – convincing another company to
pay the bills (maybe the company’s ?rst customer or
a company that needs the product internally or for
their own market)
• Special Funds – chambers of commerce and some
government and private agencies may operate
programs that help businesses raise capital for
expansion or relocation, especially if the project will
bene?t the immediate community or boost economic
development
• Traditional Lenders – commercial banks, including
SBA lenders, are not in the venture capital business
and usually stay away from making loans to startups,
unless there are substantial business and personal
assets (real estate, equipment, marketable securities
and home equity) that they can take as collateral
(in addition to demanding good credit and other
safeguards)
• Non-Traditional Lenders – other types of lenders
that will work with a new company and take more
risk than banks, while charging higher interest rates
(taking accounts receivables, customer contracts and
purchase orders as collateral)
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FUNDING SOURCES
Arizona Angels Investor Network
602-616-7833
www.arizonaangels.com
Arizona MultiBank Community Development
Corporation
602-643-0030
www.multibank.org
Arizona Technology Investor Forum (ATIF)
480-965-6049http://atif.asu.edu
Business Development Finance Corporation
Phoenix: 602-381-6292; 800-264-3377
Tucson: 520-623-3377; 866-630-1974
www.bdfc.com
City of Phoenix
Community and Economic Development Department
602-262-5040
www.phoenix.gov/econdev
Community Investment Corporation
520-529-1766
www.communityinvestmentcorporation.org
Desert Angels
520-490-8137
www.desertangels.org
Export-Import Bank of the United States
800-565-3946
www.exim.gov
Invest Southwest
480-788-5038
www.investsouthwest.org
Southwest Business Financing Corporation
Phoenix: 602-495-6495
Tucson: 520-297-3232
www.swbfc.com
SMALL BUSINESS CAPITAL INVESTMENT
TAX CREDIT (ANGEL INVESTMENT)
Arizona’s Small Business Capital Investment Tax Credit
makes $20 million available in tax credits to “investors”
that make an investment in a company certi?ed by the
Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA). Angel investors are
traditionally high net-worth individuals that are investing
up to $250,000 into companies with products and ideas
that may resonate at a personal level.
This Arizona tax credit will assist early stage small
businesses in attracting the much-needed capital to
expand operations and bring new ideas, products and
services to market. An investor may receive an Arizona
income tax credit up to 30% or 35% of the investment
amount, depending on the type or location of the
company. For more information, visit the ACA website at
www.azcommerce.com select “Incentives.”
VENTURE CAPITAL
Venture capital ?rms provide equity ?nancing to small
businesses. This equity position usually ranges from 10-
percent to 40-percent. Most venture capitalists indicate
they are interested in proposals requiring an investment
in the area of $250,000 to $1.5 million.
Venture capital ?nancing is not commonly available for
startup businesses. Inquiries should be made directly to
the venture capital ?rms. For the Arizona list of licensed
Small Business Investment Companies (SBIC), visit the
SBA website athttp://archive.sba.gov/aboutsba/
sbaprograms/inv/INV_DIRECTORY_SBIC.html select
“Small Business Investment Companies In Arizona.”
ARIZONA’S INCENTIVES,
PROGRAMS, AND GRANTS
Arizona is committed to helping businesses succeed. The
state’s incentives, programs and grants that are administered
by the Arizona Commerce Authority are listed on the
following page. For more details, visit the ACA website at
www.azcommerce.com select “Incentives.”
In addition to the ACA’s website, it’s weekly
innovation newsletter provides information as
new programs and ?nancial resources become
available. To receive this weekly newsletter, sign up
on www.azcommerce.com.
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ACA’S INCENTIVE TOOL BOX
Arizona Competes Fund
• Cash assistance for business attraction projects that stimulate and promote industries
that provide stable, high-wage jobs
• Assistance will be performance-based and must result in a net bene?t to the state
Arizona FAST Grant
• Cash assistance to initiate the technology commercialization process
• Grant up to $7,500 to provide select professional consulting services
Arizona Innovation
Accelerator Fund
Program
• Loan participation program to spur business expansion and job creation
• Loans from $50,000 - $2 million for up to 49.9% of a ?nancing package
• Principle and interest payments may be deferred for up to 24 months
Arizona Innovation
Challenge
• Cash assistance for promising technology ventures
• Grants range from $100,000 - $250,000
Arizona STEP Grant
• Cash assistance to help develop international export opportunities
• Reimbursable grants up to $10,000
Commercial & Industrial
Solar Energy Program
Private Activity Bonds
• Tax credit equal to 10% of the installed cost of the solar energy device
- Up to $25,000 per location per year
- Not to exceed $50,000 per taxpayer per year
Healthy Forest Tax
Incentives
• Use fuel tax rate of 9¢ per gallon
• Up to $3,000 tax credit for each net new job created
• Transaction Privilege Tax Exemption on qualifying equipment purchase or lease
contracts
• Transaction Privilege Tax Exemption on construction contracts
• Use Tax Exemption on qualifying equipment purchased out-of-state
• Property tax reductions of up to 75% for up to ?ve years
• Workforce training tax credit up to $9,000 for each net new job created
Job Training Program
• Cash assistance up to $1.5M per business
- New jobs up to 75% of eligible training expenses can be reimbursed
- Incumbent jobs up to 50% of eligible training expenses can be reimbursed
Military Reuse Zones
• Tax credits of up to $10,000 for each new employee
• Property tax reductions of up to 75% for up to ?ve years
• Transaction Privilege Tax Exemption on certain types of construction
Private Activity Bonds
• Alternative ?nancing mechanism
• Interest on bonds is exempt from federal income tax for most bondholders
Quali?ed Energy
Conservation Bonds
• Alternative ?nancing mechanism
• Quali?ed tax credit bond
• Credit rate is 70% of the credit rate that would allow the bond to sell at par
Quality Jobs Program • Tax credit up to $9,000 per new net quali?ed employee over a 3 year period
Quali?ed Facilities Tax
Credit
• Refundable tax credit up to 10% of the company’s investment or $20,000 per new job,
whichever is less
Renewable Energy Tax
Incentives
• Refundable tax credit up to 10% of the company’s investment
• Property tax reductions of up to 75% for up to ?fteen years
Research & Development
Program
• Tax credit up to
- 24% of increased R&D expenses
- $600,000 plus 15% on the expenses in excess of $2.5 million
- 34% of expenses if made in conjunction with an AZ public university
• Up to 75% of the excess tax credit can be refunded to small businesses
Small Business Capital
Investment Tax Credit
(Angel Investment)
• Tax credit up to 35% of investment amount over 3 years
• Elimination of capital gains tax on income derived from investment in certi?ed
companies
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FUNDING FOR INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES
AZ FAST GRANT PROGRAM
The Arizona Commerce Authority launched the AZ Fast
Grant Program in December 2011. This competitive grant
program provides seed money to technology-based
companies to help initiate the commercialization process.
Companies with fewer than 30 employees and revenues
less than $2 million may qualify to receive up to $7,500
for professional consulting services to help bring their
product to the next stage of completion.
This grant program will be offered periodically
throughout the year. A full description of the
requirements and grant application is online at
www.azcommerce.com/az-fast-grant.
SBIR/STTR PROPOSAL TRAINING PROGRAM
The P
III
Playbook is an Arizona Commerce Authority
structured program of training and technical assistance
enabling high-growth potential small technology ?rms to
compete more effectively for federal SBIR/STTR Phase I
and II awards and ultimately commercialize their
innovations in Phase III. For more details and application, visit
www.azcommerce.com/sbirsttr-proposal-training-program.
P
III
Playbook is partially funded by the SBA. SBA’s
funding is not an endorsement of any products, opinions
or services. All SBA funded programs are extended to
the public on a nondiscriminatory basis.
ARIZONA STATE TRADE AND EXPORT
PROMOTION (STEP) PROGRAM
The STEP program will assist Arizona small
businesses enter export markets for the ?rst time
or to expand into new markets. For more details,
see Chapter 7 and visit the ACA website at
www.azcommerce.com/az-step-grant.
STEP is partially funded by the SBA. SBA’s funding
is not an endorsement of any products, opinions or
services. All SBA funded programs are extended to
the public on a nondiscriminatory basis.
ARIZONA INNOVATION CHALLENGE
The Arizona Innovation Challenge advances innovation
and technology commercialization opportunities
in Arizona by supporting early stage ventures in
Arizona’s targeted industries (renewable energy
and sustainability, bio and life sciences, electronics,
information technologies, aerospace and defense
and advanced manufacturing). Companies receiving
awards will be required to commercialize their
technology and generate revenue within one
year. For more information, visit the website at
www.azinnovationchallenge.com.
To learn more about both the Small Business
Innovation Research (SBIR) and the Small Business
Technology Transfer (STTR) funding programs, visit the
SBA website at www.sba.gov/about-sba-services/7050.
ARIZONA INNOVATION ACCELERATOR FUND
In 2011, the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA)
was awarded $18.2 million from the U.S. Department
of Treasury’s Small Business Credit Initiative for the
Arizona Innovation Accelerator Fund program. This
loan participation program helps spur ?nancing to small
businesses and manufacturers, in collaboration with
private ?nance partners, to foster business expansion
and job creation in the state.
Financing packages may range from $50,000 to $2
million. Loan proceeds are to be used for working capital,
inventory, equipment purchase, and real property
improvements.
The ACA will target industries including renewable
energy and sustainability, bio and life sciences,
electronics, information technology, aerospace and
defense, and advanced manufacturing. ACA’s website,http://www.azcommerce.com/arizona-innovation-accelerator-fund,
provides more detailed information and an application
form for this program.
F I L I N G A N D R E G I S T E R I N G
Y O U R B U S I N E S S
35 • Business Structures and Registration
» Trade Name Selection and Registration 36
» Obtaining an Employer Identi?cation Number (EIN) 39
» Comparison Chart of Business Structures 40
40 • Business Considerations
» Business Locations 40
» Environmental Compliances 41
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to the
fact that much of the information is created by external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
4
Busi ness St r uct ur es and Regi st r at i on
34 AZ EE
As a sole proprietor or partnership, you can register your business name with the Secretary of State.
The Secretary of State offces are open Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., excluding state holidays.
When organizing a new business, one of the ?rst and most important decisions is identifying the structure of the
business.
B U S I NE S S S T R U CT U R E S A ND R E GI S T R AT I ON
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In Arizona, several business structures exist:
• Sole Proprietorship
• General Partnership
• Limited Partnership (LP)
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
• Limited Liability Limited Partnership (LLLP)
• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• Corporation
• S Corporation
• Non-Pro?t Corporation
See page 40 to review Comparison Grid of Business Structures.
No one choice suits every business. You have to pick
the structure that best meets your needs. Also, your
initial choice of a business structure may change. You
may start out as a sole proprietorship or partnership
and later, if your business grows or the risk of
personal liability increases, convert your business to
an LLC or a corporation. If you are uncertain which
business structure is right for you, you may want
to discuss your options with an accountant and/or
attorney prior to starting your business.
The following resources provide referrals/listing of,
and/or verify, licensed professionals:
Accountant:
Arizona Society of Certi?ed Public Accountants
(ASCPA)
602-252-4144; 888-237-0700
www.ascpa.com
Attorney:
State Bar of Arizona
602-252-4804; 520-623-9944; 866-482-9227
www.azbar.org
SOLE PROPRIETORSHIP
A sole proprietorship is the simplest and most common
form of business organization. It is de?ned as a business
that is owned by one individual. The creation of a business
as a sole proprietorship requires no formal Arizona ?ling.
Pro?ts and losses are reported on a separate schedule
within your personal tax return.
Advantages:
• A sole proprietor has complete control and decision-
making power over the business.
• There is usually very little reporting required with the
sole proprietorship.
• Sale or transfer can take place at the discretion of the
sole proprietor.
Disadvantages:
• All responsibilities and business decisions fall on the
shoulders of the sole proprietor.
• It is relatively dif?cul to obtain long-term ?nancing.
Investors generally do not invest in sole proprietorships.
• The sole proprietor of the business may be held
personally liable for the debts and obligations of the
business.
36 AZ EE
GENERAL PARTNERSHIP
A general partnership is an association of two or more
persons joined together to carry on trade or business for
pro?t. Each partner may contribute skills, money and/or
time, and each shares in the company’s pro?ts and losses.
Earnings are reported at the end of the year with personal
tax returns.
The partnership’s existence is usually formalized
through preparation of a written agreement. In general,
agreements outline each partner’s share of income, gain,
loss, deductions, credits and methods to dissolve the
partnership under various situations. It is not required to
?le your agreement with the state.
Advantages:
• Creating a general partnership is simpler, cheaper,
and requires less paperwork than forming a
corporation.
• Partnerships do not pay income tax. Instead, all
pro?ts and losses are passed through to the individual
partners.
• Most partnerships allow any partner to make
decisions on behalf of the company.
Disadvantages:
• All partners are personally liable for business debts
and liabilities.
• Having all partners equal in power and responsibility
may create challenges.
• The buying out of a partner may be dif?cult unless
speci?cally arranged for in a written agreement.
TRADE NAME SELECTION
AND REGISTRATION
The process of selecting a trade name begins with a
search for existing names registered by other companies.
Selecting a trade name used by another business can
make a company liable for trade name infringement.
Therefore, a business needs to check multiple sources for
existing trade names before making a ?nal decision on a
business name. Begin your search with the Secretary of
State’s searchable database of trade names registered in
the state.
Additional searches for speci?c business activity:
• Construction companies need to check name
availability ?rst with the Arizona Registrar of
Contractors by calling 602-542-1525.
• Mortgage companies need to check name
availability ?rst with the Arizona Department of
Financial Institutions by calling 602-771-2800.
The registration of a trade name (business name, DBA) is
not legally required in Arizona, but is an accepted business
practice. In addition, the registration of the trade name
may be required to open business bank accounts and help
obtain additional licenses.
As a sole proprietor or partnership, you may register your
business name with the Secretary of State. The trade
name application may be downloaded from the website
and can be either mailed or applied for in person. Of?ces
are open Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., excluding state
holidays.
Please note that applications for registration of a
trade name that are mailed to the Secretary of State’s
Of?ce must be notarized and include a photocopy of a
valid identi?cation card issued by a U.S. state or the
federal government. However, notarizations are not
required for those bringing their applications in person.
Instead, walk-in applicants must provide an identi?cation
card issued by a U.S. state or the federal government.
Arizona Secretary of State
Business Services, Trade Name Division
State Capitol Executive Tower
1700 W. Washington Street
1st Floor, Room 103
Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-4285; 800-458-5842
www.azsos.gov, select “Business Filings”
Arizona State Complex Building
400 W. Congress Street
2nd Floor, Room 252
Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6583
If you are ?ling as an LLC or corporation with the Arizona
Corporation Commission, it is not necessary to register
your corporate name as a trade name with the Secretary
of State’s of?ce, as names are cross-referenced with the
Commission.
LIMITED PARTNERSHIP (LP)
The limited partnership (LP) has become an increasingly
popular choice for business owners, especially those
involved in real estate or other investment ventures.
Unlike general partnerships, LPs can limit the liability
A certi?cate of ?ctitious name, primarily for “Doing
Business As” (DBA) title, can be issued by ?lling out a
form that states the name of the business owner and
business location at any County Recorder’s Of?ce.
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and the involvement of certain partners. This is useful for
attracting investment partners who would like to
participate in the pro?ts of the business but not
necessarily in its risks or daily operations.
The pro?ts and losses in a limited partnership ?ow through
the business to the partners, all of whom are taxed on their
personal income tax returns. LPs are required to register
with the Arizona Secretary of State.
Advantages:
• It is easier to attract investors since the only liability for
limited partners is the capital they invest in the business.
• LPs allow general partners to focus their efforts on
running the business.
• Limited partners may leave or be replaced without
dissolving the LP.
Disadvantages:
• Each general partner assumes full personal liability
for the debts and obligations of the partnership.
• The limited partners are limited in the role they can
play in the running of the company.
• If the general partner wants to transfer his role in the
company, or add a new partner, the limited partner
has the ability to veto his choice.
Foreign Limited Partnership (LP), Foreign Limited
Liability Partnership (LLP) and Foreign Limited
Liability Limited Partnership (LLLP)
If the business is a foreign entity – an entity organized
under the laws of another state or country – it must register
with the Arizona Secretary of State. You may download the form
www.azsos.gov/business_services/partnerships/PartnershipForms.htm.
LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP (LLP)
AND LIMITED LIABILITY LIMITED
PARTNERSHIP (LLLP)
Arizona’s limited liability partnership statutes (A.R.S. §
29-1101, et seq.) govern both limited liability partnerships
(LLPs) and limited liability limited partnerships (LLLPs)
and permit both general partnerships and limited
partnerships to elect limited liability for their general
partner(s). The owners report company pro?ts and losses
on their personal income tax forms. The business itself is
not subject to a federal income tax, as corporations are.
To ensure that all legal requirements are satis?ed, it is a
good idea to consult an attorney to organize these types
of partnerships. LLPs and LLLPs are required to register
with the Arizona Secretary of State.
Advantages:
• There are no restrictions as to maximum number of
partners.
• There is a limit to the amount that may be recovered
in a lawsuit to partnership assets alone.
• LLPs and LLLPs always treated as a partnership
entity for tax purposes.
Disadvantages:
• The individual acting as general partner assumes
personal liability.
• The limited partners are limited in the role they can
play in the running of the company.
• A few states do not recognize these business
structures.
Registration of a state trademark/service mark:
Arizona Secretary of State
www.azsos.gov select “Business Filings.”
Filing a federal patent and/or trademark/service mark:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Of?ce
www.uspto.gov
Obtaining a federal copyright:
U.S. Copyright Of?ce
www.copyright.gov
LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (LLC)
AND CORPORATIONS
Should you decide to create a limited liability company
(LLC) or corporation, you must then ?le with the
Corporations Division of the Arizona Corporation
Commission.
Arizona Corporation Commission, Corporations Division
1300 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-3026; 800-345-5819
www.azcc.gov/divisions/corporations
400 W. Congress Street, Suite 221, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6560
Reserving of the LLC or Corporation Name
Electronically ?ling your business name reservation
for $45 immediately reserves your name so no other
person can take it. However, if you do not need to
expedite your name ?ling, you may reserve your name
by downloading the application from the Arizona
Corporation Commission website, and it can be either
mailed or applied for in person for $10.
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LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (LLC)
A limited liability company (LLC) is a ?exible form of
enterprise that blends elements of the partnership and
corporate structures. LLCs are popular because, similar
to a corporation, owners have limited personal liability
for the debts and actions of the LLC. Other features of
LLCs are more like a partnership, providing management
?exibility and the bene?t of pass-through taxation.
Owners of an LLC are called members. There is no
maximum number of members. LLCs are required to ?le
with the Arizona Corporation Commission.
Advantages:
• Owners have limited personal liability for business
debts even if they participate in management.
• Pro?t and loss can be allocated differently than
ownership interests.
• Can build in buy or sell, and owner compensation
provision.
Disadvantages:
• LLCs are more expensive to create than partnership
or sole proprietorship.
• A large number of owners complicates status.
• Death, bankruptcy or withdrawal of owner may cause
problems.
CORPORATION
A corporation is the most complex type of business
organization. It is formed by law as a separate entity,
completely distinct from those who own it, and has its own
rights and responsibilities.
The primary advantage of incorporating lies in the area of
liability. A corporation has its own legal identity, completely
separate from its owners. The corporation safeguards the
business owner’s personal assets, and its protection alone
justi?es the additional expense and paperwork.
In forming a corporation, potential shareholders usually
offer money and/or property in exchange for capital stock.
The shareholders are the owners of the corporation, and
the directors and of?cers of the corporation may or may
not be shareholders. Corporations are required to ?le
with the Arizona Corporation Commission.
Advantages:
• A corporation is a separate legal entity with unlimited
life of the business.
• There is limited liability for shareholders and transfer
of ownership through stock sale.
• It is relatively easy to raise capital.
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Disadvantages:
• Corporations are complex and expensive to organize
with extensive regulation and record-keeping
requirements.
• Activities are limited by the corporate charter.
• Corporations are subject to double taxation – once
on corporation pro?ts and again on dividends.
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
An Employer Identi?cation Number (EIN) is also known
as a Federal Tax Identi?cation Number, and is used to
identify a business entity. You may apply for an EIN athttps://sa2.www4.irs.gov/modiein/individual/index.jsp
or call 800-829-4933.
S CORPORATION
An S corporation sometimes referred to as a “Subchapter
S corporation,” allows you the protection of a corporation
with some of the ?nancial ?exibility of a partnership and
elects not to be subject to federal corporate income tax.
The shareholders, however, include their shares of the
corporation’s items of income, deduction, loss and credit,
or their shares of non-separately computed income or
loss, as part of their personal income.
To qualify as an S corporation, a corporation must meet
the following:
• It must be based in the United States,
• It must have only one class of stock,
• It must have no more than 75 shareholders, and
• It cannot have any nonresident alien as a shareholder.
A corporation that meets all of the above criteria can
become an S corporation if:
• All shareholders consent to the corporation’s election
of S corporation,
• The corporation has a permitted tax year, and
• It is ?led with the Arizona Corporation Commission
as a corporation.
To elect to be an S corporation, a corporation must ?le
Form 2553 with IRS. The election permits the income to
be taxed to the shareholders of the corporation rather
than to the corporation itself, except as noted in the
IRS general information booklet entitled “Instructions
for Form 2553, Election by a Small Business
Corporation.” For instructions and Form 2553, visit the
IRS website at www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i2553.pdf and
www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f2553.pdf.
NON-PROFIT CORPORATION
Arizona allows the formation of a non-pro?t corporation,
but if the corporation intends to be tax-exempt, it must
apply for that status through the Internal Revenue
Service (IRS). There are more than a dozen different
types of corporations approved by the Internal Revenue
Service as “tax-exempt non-pro?t.” These organizations
usually are developed and operated exclusively for one
or more of the following purposes: charitable, religious,
educational, scienti?c, literary, testing for public safety,
fostering amateur sports competition (under certain
restrictions), or the prevention of cruelty to children or
animals. The organization may be a corporation, community
chest fund or foundation. A sole proprietorship or
partnership may not qualify. Non-pro?t corporations are
required to ?le with the Arizona Corporation Commission.
IRS Tax Information for Charities and Other Non-
Pro?ts, www.irs.gov/charities/index.html, discusses the
rules and procedures for organizations seeking to obtain
recognition of exemption from federal income tax.
The Arizona Department of Revenue publishes “Non-
Pro?t Organizations” brochure. To view, visit their
website at www.azdor.gov/Portals/0/Brochure/501.pdf.
For a listing of organizations supporting non-pro?ts,
visit the Arizona Commerce Authority’s website at
www.azcommerce.com/smallbiz, under “Click on a
Step or Topic of Interest” select “Business Structure
(Entity)/Employer Identi?cation Number (EIN)” for
“Non-pro?t Corporation.”
Foreign Limited Liability Company (LLC), Foreign
Corporation and Foreign Non-Profit Corporation
If your business is organized under the laws of
another state or country and you want to conduct
business within Arizona, you will need to register
as a foreign limited liability company (LLC), foreign
pro?t corporation, or foreign non-pro?t corporation
with the Arizona Corporation Commission. Visit the
Arizona Corporation Commission’s website for ?ling
instructions and to download the proper forms.
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COMPARISON CHART OF BUSINESS STRUCTURES*
Business owners have to pick the business structure that best meets their needs. No one choice suits every business! We recommend in addition
to the information on this page to consult with an accountant and/or attorney to help you select the form of ownership that is right for you.
SOLE
PROPRIETORSHIP
GENERAL
PARTNERSHIP
LIMITED LIABILITY
COMPANY (LLC)
“C” CORPORATION “S” CORPORATION
De?nition A business owned
and operated by
one person for
pro?t.
Two or more
people who jointly
own and operate a
business.
Blends the elements
of the partnership and
corporate structures.
Formed by law as a separate entity,
completely distinct from those who
own it, and has its own rights and
responsibilities.
Allows the protection of a
corporation with some of
the ?nancial ?exibility of a
partnership and elects not to
be subject to federal corporate
income tax.
Number
of Owners
Allowed
Only one owner. At least 2; no upper
limits.
Owners are called
partners.
At least 1; no upper
limits. Owners are
called members.
At least 1; no upper limits.
Shareholders are owners.
At least 1; upper limit is 75.
Shareholders are owners.
Arizona Filing
Requirements
None.
Recommended
trade name
registration.
None.
Recommended
written agreement
and trade name
registration.
File articles of
organization with the
Arizona Corporation
Commission includes
business name.
File articles of incorporation with the
Arizona Corporation Commission
includes business name.
File articles of incorporation
with the Arizona Corporation
Commission includes business
name. Must ?le Form 2553 with
IRS.
Management Owner has
absolute control.
In absence of
agreement, all
partners have
equal voice.
Governed by the
operating agreement.
Shareholders elect directors who set
policy; of?cers manage day to day
operations.
Same as a corporation.
Subject to
Income Tax
No, sole proprietor
pays all taxes.
No, income/loss is
passed through to
all partners.
No, income/loss is
passed through to
members.
Yes, shareholders also report income
from distributions and bonuses.
Of?cers and directors report salary
income.
No, income/loss is passed
through to the shareholders.
Liability The owner of the
business can be
held personally
liable for
the debts and
obligations of the
business.
All partners are
personally liable for
business debts and
liabilities.
Members have limited
personal liability for
business debts even
if they participate in
management.
The corporation safeguards the
shareholder’s personal assets except
personally guaranteed business debt,
or personal negligence or fault.
Same as a corporation.
Dissolution Easiest to dissolve.
Owner to pay
debt, taxes and
claims against the
business.
Partners pay debt,
taxes and claims
against the
business. Settle
partnership
account.
File articles of
dissolution with the
Arizona Corporation
Commission. Pay debt,
taxes and claims against
the LLC. Distribute
assets to members.
Shareholders must vote to approve
dissolution. File articles of dissolution
with the Arizona Corporation
Commission. Pay debt, taxes
and claims against the corporation.
Distribute corporate assets to
shareholders.
Same as a corporation.
* Limited Partnership (LP), Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) and Limited Liability Limited Partnership (LLLP) are not included in this chart.
40 AZ EE
BUSINESS LOCATIONS
Finding the correct business location is one of the most
important decisions you will make. The ideal location for
your business depends on a number of factors. The most
important consideration is the type of business. Before
you decide on a location, consider a few of the factors that
can help you select the best location for your business.
• If you conduct much of your business online, establishing
a home-based business might be more desirable and
economical than leasing commercial of?ce space.
B U S I N E S S C O N S I D E R A T I O N S
• If you manufacture products for distribution, an
ideal location might be an industrial park near major
transportation ports.
• If your type of business depends heavily on pedestrian
or drive-by traf?c, such as a ?orist, gift shop or clothing
boutique, you’ll want to seek a popular retail location.
HOME-BASED BUSINESSES
Home-based businesses, including those that operate
online, must comply with the same license and permit
requirements as a business located at a commercial site.
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In addition, home-based business activities must be in
compliance with city/county residential zoning rules and
homeowners’ association rules or the deed restrictions
on property.
To access referrals/listing of, and/or to verify licensed
professionals, contact:
Commercial Real Estate Broker:
Arizona Department of Real Estate
602-771-7799; 520-628-6940
www.re.state.az.us
LEASING A
COMMERCIAL OFFICE SPACE
Leasing a commercial of?ce space is one of the most
costly expenses made by new and expanding businesses.
Commercial leases are often negotiated, and there is no
standard for commercial leases. It’s recommended that
you obtain an attorney to help make sure you receive the
best deal.
BUYING A COMMERCIAL BUILDING
When buying a commercial building, you may bene?t from
working with a real estate professional. If you decide to
work with a realtor, choose one familiar with the area you
are shopping and one who is experienced in commercial
sales.
In Arizona, each incorporated city/town in which you
do business may have it’s own license, permit and/or
tax requirements, as well as zoning rules. Contact the
city/town in which your business will be based, as well
as, any city/town in which you will conduct business
to learn about local requirements and/or restrictions
that may affect your business.
If your business will be based and/or operate in an
unincorporated region of the county, check with the
county Planning and Zoning and/or Development
Services departments regarding zoning laws. Check
also with the Fire department and county Sheriff’s
of?ce for any regulations/restrictions that might
impact your business.
For a listing of all county/city/town licensing of?ces,
visit the Arizona Commerce Authority’s website at
www.azcommerce.com/services/small-business-services,
select “Quick Links to Licensing Of?ces.”
ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCES
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers a
variety of compliance assistance resources such as
workshops, training sessions, hotlines, websites and
guides to assist you in complying with federal and state
environmental laws. To learn more, visit www.epa.gov.
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The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ)
issues permits, approvals and certi?cations to ensure
facilities are legally constructed and operated and that
discharges to the air, water and soil are within healthful
standards established by law.
Many industries are subject to environmental compliance
including: asphalt, auto repair, car wash, construction,
dry cleaner/laundry, food processing, pest control,
pharmaceutical, photographer, portland cement plant,
print shop, rv/mobile home park, school, solid waste hauler,
spray painting booth, water company, woodworking shop,
etc. For a more comprehensive list, visit the ADEQ
website.
Arizona Department of Environmental Quality
Main Of?ce
1110 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-771-2300; 800-234-5677
www.azdeq.gov
Serves: State and Maricopa, Pinal and Gila counties
Southern Regional Of?ce
400 W. Congress Street, Suite 433, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6733; 888-271-9302
Serves: Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, La Paz, Pima,
Santa Cruz and Yuma counties
In addition to federal and state compliances, contact
your county’s Environmental Services Department
regarding environment licensing, permits and
requirements. For a listing of all county licensing of?ces,
visit the Arizona Commerce Authority’s website at
www.azcommerce.com/services/small-business-services,
select “Quick Links to Licensing Of?ces.”
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
is charged with setting and enforcing workplace safety
and health standards. Small businesses, particularly
those in high-hazard industries or involved in hazardous
operations, can use the free On-Site Consultation
Service to help improve their safety performance. Safety
and health consultants work with employers to identify
workplace hazards, provide advice on compliance with
OSHA standards, and assist in establishing safety and
health programs. For more information, www.osha.gov.
ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCES (continued)
Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health
(ADOSH)
Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health
(ADOSH) operates under an approved plan with the
U.S. Department of Labor to retain jurisdiction over
occupational safety and health issues within Arizona,
excluding mining operations, Indian Reservations and
federal employees.
ADOSH has seven major areas of responsibility: boilers,
elevators, safety and health compliance, consultation
and training, policies, voluntary protection program, and
research & statistics (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
They provide a number of publications and other materials
to assist its businesses. For more information, visit their
website at www.ica.state.az.us/ADOSH/ADOSH_main.aspx
or contact the Phoenix of?ce at 602-542-5795, the Tucson
of?ce at 520-628-5478 or 855-268-5251.
MUSIC IN THE WORK PLACE
If you plan to play or incorporate copyrighted music in
your business (i.e., on the Internet, over the phone, in the
of?ce/building, restaurants, etc.), you will need to obtain
advanced permission from the copyright owner, or their
representative.
The following performing rights organizations license
performance rights for most of the music copyright
holders in the United States:
American Society of Composers, Authors and
Publishers (ASCAP)
www.ascap.com
Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI)
www.bmi.com
SESAC, Inc.
www.sesac.com
The Better Business Bureau’s online publication, Music
in the Marketplace, at www.bbb.org/us/article/3072
provides a general explanation of the nature and
functions of music performing rights organizations.
L I C E N S I N G A N D T A X E S
F O R Y O U R B U S I N E S S
44 • Arizona Licensing Agencies and Offces
» State of Arizona Agencies and Departments 44
» Arizona County Of?ces 48
» Arizona City/Towns Of?ces 49
53 • Taxes
» Federal Income Tax 53
» State Transaction Privilege Tax 54
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to
the fact that much of the information is created by external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
5
Busi ness L i censes and Tax I nf or mat i on
AZ EE 43
The Internal Revenue Service encourages
business owners to use IRS online services to
remain current on their tax responsibilities.
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STATE OF ARIZONA AGENCIES AND DEPARTMENTS
The following is a list of contact information for Arizona’s state agencies and departments that provide licensing,
certi?cation, or permits for business activities conducted in Arizona. Most links will take you directly to homepage;
information on business activity requirements may be posted under terms such as: Licensing, Permits, Certi?cations,
Applications and/or Forms.
If you are not sure if your business activity requires a
regulatory license or which agency is the correct one for
your profession or business activity, you may wish to visit
the AZ.gov Occupational Licenses by Agency or Department
web page athttp://az.gov/app/license/index.xhtml.
AGENCIES AND DEPARTMENTS ARE LISTED IN
ALPHABETICAL ORDER:
Accountancy, Board of
100 N. 15th Avenue, Suite 165, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-364-0804
www.azaccountancy.gov
Acupuncture Board of Examiners
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 230, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-3095 , press 1
www.azacupunctureboard.us
Agriculture, Department of
1688 W. Adams Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-4373
www.azda.gov
Appraisal, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 360, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-1558
www.appraisal.state.az.us
Federal
If your business is involved in activities that are supervised
and regulated by a federal agency, you may need to obtain
a federal license. The federal licenses and permits that
you may need for your business are listed on the SBA
website at www.sba.gov, under “Starting a Business”
select “Obtain Business Licenses.”
State
In Arizona, not all businesses need a license, and some
businesses may need more than one license. The number
and types of license(s) required depend on several factors
including what type of business you will have, where your
business will be based and operate, and what type of
products and/or services you will sell.
Visit the Arizona Commerce Authority’s Checklist Program
at www.azcommerce.com/services/small-business-services,
under “Selected Professions/Business Activities” you
will ?nd links to several professions’/business activities’
speci?c business licensing information. Although this
listing is not comprehensive, there are many to review.
Local
Regulatory licenses (or permits) may be required at the
local level by either the city/town and/or the county
in which your business will be based and/or operate.
Contact them directly to learn about their requirements
and/or restrictions.
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Attorney General, Arizona
1275 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-5025; 800-352-8431
www.azag.gov
400 W. Congress Street, South Building, Suite 315
Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6504
Barbers, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 220, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-4498
www.azbarberboard.us
Behavioral Health Examiners, Board of
3443 N. Central Avenue, Suite 1700, Phoenix, AZ 85012
602-542-1882
www.azbbhe.us
Boxing Commission
1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 260, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-364-1721
www.azracing.gov, select “Boxing”
Charter Schools, Board of
1616 W. Adams Street, Suite 170, Phoenix, AZ 85007
85007602-364-3080
www.asbcs.az.gov
Chiropractic Examiners, Board of
5060 N. 19th Avenue, Suite 416, Phoenix, AZ 85015
602-864-5088
www.azchiroboard.us
Contractors, Registrar of
1700 W. Washington Street, Suite 105, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-1525; 877-692-9762
www.azroc.gov
400 W. Congress Street, Suite 212, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6345
Corporation Commission
1300 W. Washington Street, 1st Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-3026; 800-345-5819
www.azcc.gov
400 W. Congress Street, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6560
Cosmetology, Board of
1721 E. Broadway Road, Tempe, AZ 85282
480-784-4539, ext. 4
www.azboc.gov
Dental Examiners, Board of
4205 N. 7th Avenue, Suite 300, Phoenix, AZ 85013
602-242-1492
www.azdentalboard.us
Economic Security, Department of
1789 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Child Care: 602-542-4248
Unemployment Tax: 602-771-6602
www.azdes.gov
Education, Department of
1535 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-4367
www.azed.gov/educator-certi?cation
Environmental Quality, Department of
1110 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-771-2300; 800-234-5677
www.azdeq.gov
400 W. Congress Street, Suite 433, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6733
Financial Institutions, Department of
2910 N. 44th Street, Suite 310, Phoenix, AZ 85018
602-771-2800; 800-544-0708
www.azd?.gov
Fire, Building and Life Safety, Department of
1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 100, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-364-1003
www.dfbls.az.gov
Funeral Directors and Embalmers, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 230, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-3095, press 3
www.azfuneralboard.us
Game and Fish Department
5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086
602-942-3000
www.azgfd.gov
Gaming, Department of
1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 450, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-771-4263
www.azgaming.gov
2901 Shamrell Boulevard, Suite 100, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
928-214-9410
400 W. Congress Street, Suite 156, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6468
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Health Services, Department of
150 N. 18th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-364-2536
www.azdhs.gov
Homeopathic and Integrated Medicine Examiners, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 230, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-8154
www.azhomeopathbd.az.gov
Industrial Commission of Arizona
800 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-4515
www.ica.state.az.us
2675 E. Broadway Road, Tucson, AZ 85716
520-628-5459
Insurance, Department of
2910 N. 44th Street, Suite 210, Phoenix, AZ 85018
602-364-4457; 877-660-0964
www.azinsurance.gov
Land Department, State
1616 W. Adams Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-4621
www.land.state.az.us
Liquor License and Control, Department of
800 W. Washington Street, 5th Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-5141
www.azliquor.gov
Lottery, Arizona
4740 E. University Drive, Phoenix, AZ 85034
480-921-4400, ext. 4439
www.arizonalottery.com
4010 E. Grant Road, Tucson, AZ 85712
520-628-5107
Massage Therapy, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 300, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-8604
www.massageboard.az.gov
Medical Board
9545 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
480-551-2700; 877-255-2212
www.azmd.gov
Medical Radiologic Technology Board of Examiners
4814 S. 40th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85040
602-255-4845
www.azrra.gov
ARI ZONA STATE AGENCI ES AND DEPARTMENTS ( i n al phabet i cal or der, cont i nued)
Mine Inspector
1700 W. Washington Street, 4th Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-5971
www.asmi.az.gov
Naturopathic Physicians Medical Board
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 300, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-8242
www.aznd.gov
Nursing, Board of
4747 N. 7th Street, Suite 200, Phoenix, AZ 85014
602-771-7800
www.azbn.gov
Nursing Care Institution Administrators and Assisted
Living Facility Managers, Board of Examiners of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite B-8, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-364-2273
www.aznciaboard.us
Occupational Therapy Examiners, Board of
4205 N. 7th Avenue, Suite 305, Phoenix, AZ 85013
602-589-8352
www.occupationaltherapyboard.az.gov
Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, Arizona
416 W. Congress Street, Suite 100, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-770-3500
www.azogcc.az.gov
Opticians, Board of Dispensing
1400 W. Washington Street, Room 230, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-8158
www.do.az.gov
Optometry, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 230, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-8155
www.optometry.az.gov
Osteopathic Examiners in Medicine and Surgery, Board of
9535 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
480-657-7703
www.azdo.gov
Pest Management, Of?ce of
1688 W. Adams Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-255-3664; 800-223-0618
www.sb.state.az.us
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Pharmacy, Board of
1616 W. Adams Street, Suite 120, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-771-2727
www.azpharmacy.gov
Physical Therapy, Board of
4205 N. 7th Avenue, Suite 208, Phoenix, AZ 85013
602-274-0236http://ptboard.az.gov
Physician Assistants, Regulatory Board of
9545 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
480-551-2700; 877-255-2212
www.azpa.gov
Podiatry Examiners, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 230, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-3095, press 6
www.podiatry.az.gov
Private Postsecondary Education, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Room 260, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-5709
www.azppse.gov
Psychologist Examiners, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 235, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-8162
www.psychboard.az.gov
Public Safety, Department of
2102 W. Encanto Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ 85009-2847
602-223-2361
www.azdps.gov
Racing, Department of
1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 260, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-364-1700
www.azracing.gov
Radiation Regulatory Agency
4814 S. 40th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85040
602-255-4845
www.azrra.gov
Real Estate, Department of
2910 N. 44th Street, Suite 100, Phoenix, AZ 85018
602-771-7700
www.azre.gov
Respiratory Care Examiners, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 200, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-5995
www.rb.az.gov
Revenue, Department of
1600 W. Monroe Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007-2650
602-255-2060; 800-843-7196
www.azdor.gov
275 E. Germann Road, Building 2, Suite 180,
Gilbert, AZ 85297-2917
400 W. Congress Street, Tucson AZ 85701
Secretary of State
1700 W. Washington Street, Suite 103, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-6187
www.azsos.gov
400 W. Congress Street, Room 252, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6583
State Parks
1300 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-4174
www.azstateparks.com
Supreme Court, Arizona
1501 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-452-3300
www.azcourts.gov
Technical Registration, Board of
1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 240, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-364-4930
www.azbtr.gov
Transportation, Department of
See website for nearest location
602-712-7355
www.azdot.gov
Veterinary Medical Examining Board
1400 W. Washington Street, Room 240, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-364-1738
www.vetboard.az.gov
Water Resources, Department of
3550 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85012
602-771-8500
www.azwater.gov/dwr
Weights and Measures, Department of
4425 W. Olive Avenue, Suite 134, Glendale, AZ 85302-3843
602-771-4920; 800-277-6675
www.azdwm.gov
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ARIZONA COUNTY OFFICES
If your business will be based and/or operate in an
unincorporated region of the county, check with that
county Development Services and/or Planning and
Zoning departments regarding your business activity
requirements and/or restrictions. When at their
website, look under “Departments” to ?nd the
department you need.
In addition, the county health departments issue permits
to – and performs inspections on – businesses such as
food establishments, pet shops, public accommodations,
public and semi-public swimming pools, mobile food
vendors and trailer parks. The county also regulates
water, wastewater and solid waste related activities.
COUNTIES ARE LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER:
Apache County
75 W. Cleveland Street, St. Johns, AZ 85936
928-337-7526
www.co.apache.az.us
Cochise County
1415 Melody Lane, Building G, Bisbee, AZ 85603
520-432-9200
www.cochise.az.gov
Coconino County
2500 N. Fort Valley Road, Building 1, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
928-679-8850
www.coconino.az.gov
Gila County
608 E. Highway 260, Payson, AZ 85541
Payson: 928-474-9276
Globe: 928-402-4224
www.gilacountyaz.gov
Graham County
921 W. Thatcher Boulevard, Safford, AZ, 85546
928-428-0410
www.graham.az.gov
Greenlee County
253 Fifth Street, Clifton, AZ 85533
928-865-4762
www.co.greenlee.az.us
La Paz County
1112 Joshua Avenue, Suite 202, Parker, AZ 85344
928-669-6138
www.co.la-paz.az.us
Maricopa County
501 N. 44th Street, Suite 200, Phoenix, AZ 85008
602-506-3301
www.maricopa.gov
Mohave County
3250 E. Kino Avenue, Kingman, AZ 86409
928-757-0903
www.mohavecounty.us
Navajo County
100 E. Code Talkers Drive, Holbrook, AZ 86025
Holbrook: 928-524-4000
Show Low: 928-532-6000
Winslow: 928-289-6800
www.navajocountyaz.gov
Pima County
201 N. Stone Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-740-6800
www.pimaxpress.com
Pinal County
31 N. Pinal Street, Building F, Florence, AZ 85132
520-866-6442
www.pinalcountyaz.gov
Santa Cruz County
2150 N. Congress Drive, Nogales, AZ 85621
520-375-7930
www.co.santa-cruz.az.us
Yavapai County
1120 Commerce Drive, Prescott, AZ 86305
928-771-3214
www.yavapai.us
Yuma County
2351 W. 26th Street, Yuma, AZ 85364
928-817-5000
www.yumacountyaz.gov
Arizona Councils of Government (COGS) serves the
local governments and the citizens in the state by
dealing with issues and needs that cross city, town,
county and even state boundaries. There are six Councils
of Governments in the state. For more information
and their contact information, visit the website at
www.azmag.gov/archive/AZ-COGs/index.asp.
Arizona at a Glance provides a snapshot of Arizona’s key
indicators, including economic information, population
and demographics, workforce and quality of life. Visit
the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) website at
www.azcommerce.com select “Facts & Figures.”
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Each incorporated city/town in which you do business
may have it’s own license, permit and/or tax requirements,
as well as zoning rules. Contact the city/town in which
your business will be based, as well as any city/town in
which you will conduct business to learn about local
requirements and/or restrictions that may affect your
business. Information on business activity requirements
may be posted under terms such as: Licensing, Permits,
Certi?cations, Applications and/or Forms.
CITIES/TOWNS ARE LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER:
Apache Junction, City of
300 E. Superstition Boulevard, Building C
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
480-474-5070
www.ajcity.net
Avondale, City of
11465 W. Civic Center Drive, Suite 270, Avondale, AZ 85323
623-333-2001
www.avondale.org
Benson, City of
120 W. 6th Street, Benson, AZ 85602
520-586-2245
www.cityofbenson.com
Bisbee, City of
118 Arizona Street, Bisbee, AZ 85603
520-432-6000
www.cityofbisbee.com
Buckeye, Town of
530 E. Monroe Avenue, Buckeye, AZ 85326
623-349-6000
www.buckeyeaz.gov
Bullhead City, City of
2355 Trane Road, Bullhead City, AZ 86442
928-763-0110
www.bullheadcity.com
Camp Verde, Town of
473 S. Main Street, Suite 102, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
928-567-6631http://campverde.az.gov
AZ EE 49
Carefree, Town of
8 Sundial Circle, Carefree, AZ 85377
480-488-3686
www.carefree.org
Casa Grande, City of
510 E. Florence Boulevard, Casa Grande, AZ 85122
520-421-8600
www.casagrandeaz.gov
Cave Creek, Town of
37622 N. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, AZ 85331
480-488-1400
www.cavecreek.org
Chandler, City of
175 S. Arizona Avenue, Suite A, Chandler, AZ 85225
480-782-2280
www.chandleraz.org
Chino Valley, Town of
1982 Voss Drive, Chino Valley, AZ 86323
928-636-4427
www.chinoaz.net
Clarkdale, Town of
890 Main Street, Clarkdale, AZ 86324
928-639-2400
www.clarkdale.az.us
Clifton, Town of
510 N. Coronado Boulevard, Clifton, AZ 85533
928-865-4146
Colorado City, Town of
25 S. Central Street, Colorado City, AZ 86021
928-875-2646
Coolidge, City of
130 W. Central Avenue, Coolidge, AZ 85128
520-723-5361
www.coolidgeaz.com
Cottonwood, City of
827 N. Main Street, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
928-634-5526http://cottonwoodaz.gov
Dewey-Humboldt, Town of
2735 S. Highway 69, Suite 12
Humboldt Station, Humboldt, AZ 86329
928-632-7362
www.dhaz.gov
>
Communities statewide support a diverse economy and
quality of life. Visit the Arizona Commerce Authority
website at www.azcommerce.com, select “Facts &
Figures” to view pro?les of more than 100 Arizona
communities.
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Douglas, City of
425 E. 10th Street, Douglas, AZ 85607
520-417-7333
www.douglasaz.gov
Duncan, Town of
506 SE Old West Highway, Duncan, AZ 85534
928-359-2791
Eagar, Town of
22 W. 2nd Street, Eagar, AZ 85925
928-333-4128
www.eagaraz.gov
El Mirage, City of
12145 NW Grand Avenue, El Mirage, AZ 85335
623-876-2965
www.cityofelmirage.org
Eloy, City of
624 N. Main Street, Eloy, AZ 85131
520-464-3401
www.eloyaz.org
Flagstaff, City of
211 W. Aspen Avenue, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
928-213-2250
www.?agstaff.az.gov
Florence, Town of
775 N. Main Street, Florence, AZ 85132
520-868-7500
www.?orenceaz.gov
Fountain Hills, Town of
16705 E. Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
480-816-5100
www.fh.az.gov
Fredonia, Town of
25 N. Main Street, Fredonia, AZ 86022
928-643-7241
www.fredoniaaz.net
Gila Bend, Town of
644 W. Pima Street, Gila Bend, AZ 85337
928-683-2255
www.gilabendaz.org
Gilbert, Town of
90 E. Civic Center Drive, Gilbert, AZ 85296
480-503-6700
www.gilbertaz.gov
Glendale, City of
5850 W. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85301
623-930-3190
www.glendaleaz.com
Globe, City of
150 N. Pine Street, Globe, AZ 85501
928-425-7146
www.globeaz.gov
Goodyear, City of
190 N. Litch?eld Road, Goodyear, AZ 85338
623-882-7874
www.goodyearaz.gov
Guadalupe, Town of
9241 S. Avenida Del Yaqui, Guadalupe, AZ 85283
480-505-5367
www.guadalupeaz.org
Hayden, Town of
520 N. Velasco Avenue, Hayden, AZ 85135
520-356-7801
www.townofhayden.net
Holbrook, City of
465 First Avenue, Holbrook, AZ 86025
928-524-6225
www.ci.holbrook.az.us
Huachuca City, Town of
500 N. Gonzales Boulevard, Huachuca City, AZ 85616
520-456-1354
www.huachucacityaz.gov
Jerome, Town of
600 Clark Street, Jerome, AZ 86331
928-634-7943
Kearny, Town of
912-C Tilbury Drive, Kearny, AZ 85237
520-363-5547
www.townofkearny.com
Kingman, City of
310 N. Fourth Street, Kingman, AZ 86401
928-753-5561
www.cityofkingman.gov
Lake Havasu City
2330 McCulloch Boulevard North, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
928-453-4146
www.lhcaz.gov
ARI ZONA CI TY/TOWN OFFI CES ( i n al phabet i cal or der, cont i nued)
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Litch?eld Park, City of
214 W. Wigwam Boulevard, Litch?eld Park, AZ 85340
623-935-4364
www.litch?eld-park.org
Mammoth, Town of
125 N. Clark Street, Mammoth, AZ 85618
520-487-2331
Marana, Town of
11555 W. Civic Center Drive, Marana, AZ 85653
520-382-1999
www.marana.com
Maricopa, City of
45145 W. Madison Avenue, Maricopa, AZ 85139
520-568-9098
www.maricopa-az.gov
Mesa, City of
55 N. Center Street, Mesa, AZ 85201
480-644-2316
www.mesaaz.gov
Miami, Town of
500 W. Sullivan Street, Miami, AZ 85539
928-473-4403
Nogales, City of
777 N. Grand Avenue, Nogales, AZ 85621
520-287-6571
www.nogalesaz.gov
Oro Valley, Town of
11000 N. La Canada Drive, Oro Valley, AZ 85737
520-229-4700
www.orovalleyaz.gov
Page, City of
697 Vista Avenue, Page, AZ 86040
928-645-8861
www.cityofpage.org
Paradise Valley, Town of
6401 E. Lincoln Drive, Town of Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
480-948-7411
www.ci.paradise-valley.az.us
Parker, Town of
1314 11th Street, Parker, AZ 85344
928-669-9265
www.ci.parker.az.us
Patagonia, Town of
310 E. McKeown Avenue, Patagonia, AZ 85624
520-394-2229http://townofpatagonia.com
Payson, Town of
303 N. Beeline Highway, Payson, AZ 85541
928-474-5242
www.paysonaz.gov
Peoria, City of
8401 W. Monroe Street, Peoria, AZ 85345
623-773-7112
www.peoriaaz.gov
Phoenix, City of
251 W. Washington Street, 3rd Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85003
602-262-6785, press 4
www.phoenix.gov
Pima, Town of
110 W. Center, Pima, AZ 85543
928-485-2611
www.pimatown.az.gov
Pinetop-Lakeside, Town of
1360 N. Niels Hansen Lane, Lakeside, AZ 85929
928-368-8883http://ci.pinetop-lakeside.az.us
Prescott, City of
201 S. Cortez Street, Prescott, AZ 86303
928-777-1268
www.cityofprescott.net
Prescott Valley, Town of
7501 E. Civic Circle, Prescott Valley, AZ 86314
928-759-3135
www.pvaz.net
Quartzsite, Town of
465 N. Plymouth Avenue, Quartzsite, AZ 85346
928-927-4333
www.ci.quartzsite.az.us
Queen Creek, Town of
22350 S. Ellsworth Road, Queen Creek, AZ 85242
480-987-9887
www.queencreek.org
Safford, City of
717 W. Main Street, Safford, AZ 85546
928-432-4000
www.cityofsafford.us
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Sahuarita, Town of
375 W. Sahuarita Center Way, Sahuarita, AZ 85629
520-822-8801
www.ci.sahuarita.az.us
St. Johns, City of
75 W. Cleveland Street, St. Johns, AZ 85936
928-337-4517
www.sjaz.us
San Luis, City of
1090 E. Union Street, San Luis, AZ 85349
928-341-8565
www.cityofsanluis.org
Scottsdale, City of
7447 E. Indian School Road, Suite 110, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
480-312-2400
www.scottsdaleaz.gov
Sedona, City of
102 Roadrunner Drive, Sedona, AZ 86336
928-282-1154
www.sedonaaz.gov
Show Low, City of
180 N. 9th Street, Show Low, AZ 85901
928-532-4000
www.showlowaz.gov
Sierra Vista, City of
1011 N. Coronado Drive, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
520-458-3315
www.sierravistaaz.gov
Snow?ake, Town of
81 W. 1st South, Snow?ake, AZ 85937
928-536-7103, ext. 254
www.ci.snow?ake.az.us
Somerton, City of
150 W. Main Street, Somerton, AZ 85350
928-722-7370
www.cityofsomerton.com
South Tucson, City of
1601 S. Sixth Avenue, South Tucson, AZ 85713
520-792-2424
www.southtucson.org
Springerville, Town of
418 E. Main Street, Springerville, AZ 85938
928-333-2656
www.springervilleaz.gov
ARI ZONA CI TY/TOWN OFFI CES ( i n al phabet i cal or der, cont i nued)
Star Valley, Town of
3675 E. Highway 260, Star Valley, AZ 85541
928-472-7752http://ci.star-valley.az.us
Superior, Town of
199 N. Lobb Avenue, Superior, AZ 85173
520-689-5752
www.superior-arizona.com
Surprise, City of
16000 N. Civic Center Plaza, Surprise, AZ 85374
623-222-1836
www.surpriseaz.gov
Taylor, Town of
425 Papermill Road, Taylor, AZ 85939
928-536-7366
www.tayloraz.org
Tempe, City of
20 E. 6th Street, 3rd Floor, Tempe, AZ 85281
480-350-2955
www.tempe.gov
Thatcher, Town of
3700 W. Main Street, Thatcher, AZ 85552
928-428-2290http://thatcher.az.gov
Tolleson, City of
9555 W. Van Buren Street, Tolleson, AZ 85353
623-936-7111
www.tollesonaz.org
Tombstone, City of
315 Fremont Street, Tombstone, AZ 85638
520-457-2202
www.cityoftombstone.com
Tucson, City of
255 W. Alameda Street, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-791-4566
www.tucsonaz.gov
Tusayan, Town of
845 Mustang Street, Tusayan, Arizona, 86023
928-638-9909
www.tusayan-az.gov
Wellton, Town of
28634 Oakland Avenue, Wellton, AZ 85356
928-785-3348
www.town.wellton.az.us
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Wickenburg, Town of
155 N. Tegner Street, Suite A, Wickenburg, AZ 85390
928-684-5451
www.ci.wickenburg.az.us
Willcox, City of
101 S. Railroad Avenue, Suite B, Willcox, AZ 85643
520-384-4271
www.cityofwillcox.org
Williams, City of
113 S. First Street, Williams, AZ 86046
928-635-4451
www.williamsaz.gov
Winkelman, Town of
206 Gif?n Avenue, Winkelman, AZ 85192
520-356-7854
Winslow, City of
21 N. Williamson, Winslow, AZ 86047
928-289-2421
www.ci.winslow.az.us
Youngtown, Town of
12030 Clubhouse Square, Youngtown, AZ 85363
623-933-8286
www.youngtownaz.org
Yuma, City of
One City Plaza, Yuma, AZ 85364
928-373-5074
www.yumaaz.gov
The League of Arizona Cities and Towns provides
an important link to the 91 incorporated cities and
towns in Arizona. For information on their services
and cities/towns online directory, visit their website at
www.azleague.org.
T A X E S
One of the responsibilities of starting and operating a
business is determining the type of taxes your business
should pay.
FEDERAL INCOME TAX
Every business must ?le an annual return with the Internal
Revenue Service (IRS). Separate forms or schedules apply
depending on the type of business.
The IRS has excellent, easy-to-read publications to
help you understand the tax system on their website at
www.irs.gov/Businesses, select any of the business topics
listed:
• Starting a Business
• Operating a Business
• Closing a Business
• Employer ID Numbers
• Small Business Events
• Employment Taxes
• Appeal a Tax Dispute
• Businesses Home
54 AZ EE
FEDERAL EXCISE TAX
Excise taxes are taxes paid when purchases are made on
a speci?c good, such as gasoline. These taxes are often
included in the price of the product. There are also excise
taxes on activities, such as on wagering or on highway
usage by trucks. The IRS provides a complete list on
excise taxes and speci?c information on their website at
www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/Excise-Tax.
FEDERAL AND STATE
EMPLOYMENT TAXES
Review the “Hiring Employees and Contract Labor” in the
next chapter (6) of this resource guide for information.
STATE CORPORATE INCOME TAX
Every corporation doing business in Arizona is required to
?le a corporate income tax return. For more information,
visit the Arizona Department of Revenue website at www.
azdor.gov/Forms/Corporate.aspx or call 602-255-3381
or 800-352-4090.
STATE PROPERTY TAX
With the exception of centrally valued properties such
as airlines, railroads and mines, property tax in Arizona is
assessed and administered in each individual county by
the county assessor. For a list of links to county websites,
visithttp://az.gov/government_county_statemap.html.
STATE TRANSACTION PRIVILEGE TAX
If you are selling a product or engaging in a service
subject to transaction privilege tax, you will need to
obtain the state transaction privilege tax (TPT) license
(commonly referred to as a sales tax, resale, wholesale,
vendor or tax license).
To access referrals/listing of, and/or to verify licensed
professionals, contact:
Accountant:
Arizona Society of Certi?ed Public Accountants
(ASCPA)
602-252-4144; 888-237-0700
www.ascpa.com
Attorney:
State Bar of Arizona
602-252-4804; 520-623-9944; 866-482-9227
www.azbar.org
If you pay someone to prepare your tax return, the
IRS urges you to choose that preparer wisely. The
IRS now requires all tax preparers to register and
take a test as well as take continuing classes. Before
choosing a tax professional, go to www.irs.gov and
enter keyword search term “Tips for Choosing a Tax
Return Preparer.”
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To review tax publications regarding activities subject
to the state transaction privilege tax, visit the Arizona
Department of Revenue website at www.aztaxes.gov
and click on “Publications.” In addition, review the
“Arizona Licensing Guide.”
ARIZONA JOINT TAX APPLICATION
(FORM JT-1)
The Arizona Joint Tax Application (Form JT-1) is used to
apply for:
• Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) License
• Withholding/Unemployment Tax License
• Use Tax License
• TPT for Cities
The application is called “Joint” because it is used by both
the Arizona Department of Revenue (DOR) and Arizona
Department of Economic Security (DES). The DOR also
issues City Transaction Privilege Tax licenses for cities that
have entered into a joint collection program with the state.
The fees vary from city to city, and a listing of participating
municipalities is provided on the application.
TRANSACTION PRIVILEGE TAX (TPT)
LICENSE
To apply online for a state transaction privilege tax
(TPT) license, if you are starting a new business with no
previous owners, go to www.aztaxes.gov, select “License
a New Business.” You can download the application form
(JT-1) from DOR’s website www.azdor.gov/Forms.aspx,
select “TPT,” and mail in or take in person to one of DOR’s
locations with the applicable state and city/town fee(s).
Note: Due to bonding requirements, construction
contractors are not permitted to ?le online.
You will be required to include your North American
Industry Classi?cation System (NAICS) codes on your
TPT application. NAICS was developed jointly by the
U.S., Canada and Mexico to provide new comparability
in statistics about business activity across North
America. To look up your NAICS codes, visit the Arizona
Department of Revenue website at www.aztaxes.gov
and click on “Business Tax Description Codes.”
STATE WITHHOLDING AND
UNEMPLOYMENT TAX LICENSE
Review the “Hiring Employees and Contract Labor”
section (6) of this resource guide for information on
Withholding and Unemployment Tax.
USE TAX LICENSE
Use tax is due when tax was not paid on purchases
made over the Internet, through toll-free numbers,
from mail order catalogs, and/or from out-of-state
locations. Arizona Department of Revenue’s Publication
#610 “Use Tax” is available for your review at
www.azdor.gov/Portals/0/Brochure/610.pdf.
Arizona Department of Revenue
602-255-2060; 800-843-7196
www.azdor.gov
Locations:
1600 W. Monroe Street
Phoenix, AZ 85007
275 E. Germann Road, Building 2, Suite 180
Gilbert, AZ 85297
400 W. Congress Street, South Building
Tucson, AZ 85701
Mail to:
Arizona Department of Revenue
ATTN: Taxpayer Information & Assistance
P.O. Box 29086
Phoenix, AZ 85038-9086
Tax Rate Tables
Visit Arizona Department of Revenue’s website at
www.azdor.gov/Business/TransactionPrivilegeTax/TPTRates.aspx
for state and county privilege tax rates, including the
city privilege tax rates and city codes for program
cities (taxes collected by the state). In addition, you will
?nd the list of non-program cities; these cities collect
their own taxes. The transaction privilege tax for these
cities must be reported directly to the applicable city.
Wholesale Tobacco Dealer’s License and Liquor
Wholesalers, Microbreweries, Farm Wineries and
Cider Products
Visit the Arizona Department of Revenue Luxury Tax
Section website at www.azdor.gov/Business/LuxuryTax.aspx,
or call 602-716-7808 to obtain the necessary tax forms to
report and pay taxes.
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C O N T R A C T L A B O R
57 • Labor Guidelines
» Contract Labor 57
» Employees 58
» Employee Compensation and Bene?ts 62
63 • Workforce Assistance
» Arizona Workforce Connection 63
» Arizona Job Training Program 64
» Apprenticeship Program 64
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to the
fact that much of the information is created by external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
6
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56 AZ EE
Pima County One-Stop opened the Kino Veterans’ Workforce Center, 2801 E. Ajo Way, Tucson, AZ
to help military veterans fnd jobs and receive training, benefts and support services, as well as to help employers hire veterans.
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L A B O R G U I D E L I N E S
Before you can determine how to treat payments you make for services, you must ?rst know the business relationship
that exists between you and the person performing the services.
The person performing the services may be:
• An independent contractor • An employee
In determining whether the person providing service is an employee or an independent contractor, all information
that provides evidence of the degree of control and independence must be considered. For more information,
visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov/businesses under “Small Businesses & Self-Employed,” select “Independent
Contractor (Self Employed) or Employee?”
CONTRACT LABOR
An individual is an independent contractor if the person
for whom the services are performed has the right to
control or direct only the result of the work, and not what
will be accomplished and how it will be accomplished or
the method of accomplishing the result.
The Independent Contractors section of the IRS website
and Publication 15-A, “Employer’s Supplemental Tax Guide”
(Supplement to Publication 15 [Circular E], Employer’s Tax
Guide), www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p15a.pdf, lists factors
used to help determine the classi?cation of independent
contractors versus payroll employees.
If you need clari?cation of status of your employees and/
or independent contractors, IRS Form SS-8,
“Determination of Worker Status for Purposes of Federal
Employment Taxes and Income Tax Withholding,”
www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fss8.pdf, is available from the IRS.
When using contract labor, you must complete IRS
Form 1099-MISC, “Miscellaneous Income” to report any
income you paid to the individual. You must send a copy
of this form to the recipient and to the IRS. Visit the IRS
website for instructions on ?ling the 1099-MISC form at
www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f1099msc.pdf.
58 AZ EE
Self-Employment Tax is a tax consisting of Social Security and Medicare tax primarily for individuals who work
for themselves. It is similar to the Social Security and Medicare taxes withheld from the pay of most wage earners.
This tax is in addition to any federal income tax you may pay on your net pro?ts. You may determine self-employment
tax (SE Tax) yourself using Schedule SE (Form 1040). Filing requirements are listed in the form’s instructions at
www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i1040.pdf.
For more information, see IRS’s Publication # 334, Tax Guide for Small Business (For Individuals Who Use Schedule
C or C-EZ) at www.irs.gov/publications/p334/index.html.
EMPLOYEES
FULL-TIME OR PART-TIME EMPLOYEES
If the person is classi?ed as an employee you must have an
Employer Identi?cation Number (EIN). You may apply for
an EIN online at www.irs.gov/businesses, click “Employer
ID Numbers” or you may obtain an EIN immediately by
calling 800-829-4933, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m.
to 5:30 p.m.
As an employer, your tax responsibilities include
withholding, depositing, reporting and paying employment
taxes. You must also give certain forms to your employees,
and they must give certain forms to you.
In addition, there is information that you need to secure
for your records and forms that you must complete:
• Eligibility to Work in the United States
• Employee’s Social Security Number (SSN)
• Federal Employee’s Withholding
• Arizona Employee Unemployment / Withholding
• Arizona New Hire Reporting
ELIGIBILITY TO WORK IN THE UNITED STATES
All employers are required to verify the employment
eligibility of new employees by completing the
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Employment Eligibility Veri?cation (Form I-9). The
Handbook for Employers, Instructions for Completing the
Form I-9 (M-274) and I-9 form is available on the USCIS
website at www.uscis.gov, select “Working in the US.”
In addition, E-Verify is an Internet-based system that
allows businesses to determine the eligibility of their
employees to work in the United States. Use the free
“E-Verify” program at www.uscis.gov under “Veri?cation.”
Employers may contact USCIS at 888-464-4218 with
questions regarding the Form 1-9 process or E-Verify.
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EMPLOYEE’S SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER (SSN)
As an employer, it is now your responsibility to report
payroll information annually to the Social Security
Administration and to your employees. Social Security
and Medicare taxes pay for bene?ts that workers
and families receive under the Federal Insurance
Contributions Act (FICA). Social Security tax pays for
bene?ts under the old-age, survivors and disability
insurance part of FICA. Medicare tax pays for bene?ts
under the hospital insurance part of FICA.
All employees must have a Social Security number. You
are required to get each employee’s name and Social
Security number and to enter them on Form W-2 (This
requirement also applies to resident and nonresident
alien employees).
Business Services Online (BSO), www.ssa.gov/bso,
enables organizations and authorized individuals
to conduct business with, and submit con?dential
information to, the Social Security Administration. You
must register to use this website. Registered users may
request, activate and access various BSO services and
functions including information on wage reporting.
You may speak to a Social Security representative
between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday by
calling 800-772-1213.
AZ EE 59
The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers
Social Security veri?cation and quick
access to relevant forms and publications at
www.socialsecurity.gov/employer/ssnv.htm.
Note: Any employee without a Social Security
card should apply for one using “Application
For A Social Security Card” (Form SS-5-FS) at
www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber.
FEDERAL EMPLOYEE’S WITHHOLDING TAX
You generally must withhold federal income tax from your
employee’s wages. All employees must sign a completed
and dated IRS Form W-4, “Employee’s Withholding
Allowance Certi?cate.“ To review publications and
download the W-4 form, visit the IRS website at
www.irs.gov, select “Forms & Pubs,” click “W-4.” Contact
the IRS at 800-829-1040 if you have additional questions.
The FirstStep Employment Law Advisor is designed
to help employers determine which federal
employment laws administered by the U.S.
Department of Labor (DOL) apply to their
business or organization, what recordkeeping
and reporting requirements they must comply
with, and which posters they need to post. For
more information, visit the DOL website at
www.dol.gov/elaws/?rststep.
ARIZONA WITHHOLDING TAX
Arizona law requires employers to withhold Arizona
income tax from wages for work done in Arizona.
All employees must sign a completed and dated Form
A-4, “Arizona Withholding Percentage Election.” To
download Form A-4 and the employer’s instructions, visit
the Arizona Department of Revenue (DOR) website at
www.azdor.gov/Forms/Withholding.aspx.
In addition, the Arizona Employer’s Handbook,
www.azdes.gov/main.aspx?menu=316&id=4185, will help
you understand the Employment Security Law of
Arizona and the withholding provisions of the State
Income Tax regulations.
ARIZONA UNEMPLOYMENT TAX
In Arizona, most employers are required by law to
pay unemployment taxes on the ?rst $7,000 in gross
wages paid to each employee in a calendar year.
For more information, you can review “A Guide to
Arizona Unemployment Insurance Bene?ts” at
www.azdes.gov/InternetFiles/Pamphlets/pdf/pau-007-PD.pdf.
Employers paying wages or salaries to employees
for services performed in the state must apply for
a withholding number and unemployment number.
The Arizona Joint Tax Application (JT-1) is used to
register for your withholding/unemployment tax.
Register online at www.aztaxes.gov click “License
a New Business” or download the form from the
DOR website at www.azdor.gov, select “Forms,”
click “Withholding.”
Arizona Department of Economic Security (ADES)
Unemployment Insurance Information Division
4000 N. Central Avenue, Suite 500, Phoenix, AZ 85012
602-771-6606; 877-600-2722
Email: [email protected]
www.azuitax.com
400 W. Congress Street, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-791-2722
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ARIZONA NEW HIRE REPORTING
Federal and state law requires employers to report all
employees to the Arizona New Hire Reporting Center
within 20 days of their hire date whether they are full-
time, part-time or temporary.
For information on how to report electronically, visithttp://az-newhire.com or call 888-282-2064, ext. 250.
Staff members are available to answer questions, discuss
reporting options, or provide a demonstration of the
website.
EMPLOYEE PAYROLL TAX
FEDERAL INCOME TAX, SOCIAL SECURITY AND
MEDICARE TAXES
You generally must withhold federal income tax from your
employees’ wages. You withhold part of Social Security
and Medicare taxes from your employees’ wages and you
pay a matching amount yourself.
To ?gure how much to withhold from each wage
payment, use the employee’s Form W-4 and the methods
described in Publication 15, Employer’s Tax Guide
and Publication 15-A, “Employer’s Supplemental Tax
Guide” at the IRS website, www.irs.gov/businesses click
“Employment Taxes.” Call 800-829-3676 or 800-829-1040
if you have additional questions.
For additional information, view the IRS Publication
#505, “Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax” at
www.irs.gov/publications/p505/index.html.
FEDERAL UNEMPLOYMENT (FUTA) TAX
The Federal Unemployment Tax is part of the federal
and state program under the Federal Unemployment Tax
Act (FUTA) that pays unemployment compensation to
workers who lose their jobs. You report and pay FUTA tax
separately from Social Security and Medicare taxes and
withheld income tax.
You pay FUTA tax only from your own funds. Employees
do not pay this tax or have it withheld from their pay. You
report FUTA taxes on the Form 940, “Employer’s Annual
Federal Unemployment (FUTA) Tax Return.” For forms,
visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov, and in the search box
type “Form 940 and Schedule A (Form 940).” For more
information, contact the IRS at 800-829-1040.
ARIZONA WITHHOLDING TAX
An employer must ?le a quarterly withholding tax return
with the Arizona Department of Revenue (DOR) to
report its Arizona withholding tax liability. Refer
to the “Arizona Withholding Liability/Payment
Schedule” section of the Form A1-QRT instructions,
www.azdor.gov/Forms/Withholding.aspx, for withholding
payment schedule computation.
Each payday, your employees must receive a
statement from you telling them what deductions
were made and how many dollars were taken out
for each legal purpose. This may be presented in a
variety of ways including on the check as a
detachable portion or in the form of an envelope
with the items printed and spaces for dollar
deductions to be ?lled in.
ARIZONA’S WORKERS’ COMPENSATION INSURANCE
Under Arizona law, it is mandatory for employers to secure
workers’ compensation insurance for their employees.
Workers’ compensation is a “no fault” system in which
an injured employee is entitled to receive bene?ts for an
industrial injury, no matter who caused the job-related
accident. Employers are required to bear the entire cost
of workers’ compensation insurance.
Companies may choose to insure their employees by
insuring with an authorized insurance carrier of the
state or by qualifying as a self-insurer under the rules
and regulations of the Industrial Commission. For a
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The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is a federal
law administered by the Wage and Hour Division of
the U.S. Department of Labor. This law establishes
minimum wage, overtime pay and child labor standards
for employers. The Industrial Commission of Arizona
has jurisdiction over all businesses in the state that are
not covered by the FLSA. The Industrial Commission
of Arizona also shares jurisdiction with the Wage and
Hour Division when both federal and state laws are
the same. Reprints of federal and Arizona’s labor laws
and additional information may be obtained on their
websites:
U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division
Phoenix District Of?ce
230 N. First Avenue, Suite 402
Phoenix, AZ 85003-1725
602-514-7100
www.wagehour.dol.gov
Tucson District Of?ce
300 W. Congress Street, Room 4-H
Tucson, AZ 85701
520-670-4899
Industrial Commission of Arizona
800 W. Washington Street
Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-4515
www.ica.state.az.us/Labor/Labor_MinWag_main.aspx
2675 E. Broadway
Tucson, AZ 85716
520-628-5459
EMPLOYMENT RESOURCES
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
www.eeoc.gov
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Administration of Children and Families
Of?ce of Child Support Enforcement
www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/index.html
Governor’s Of?ce of Equal Opportunityhttp://azgovernor.gov/eop
Arizona Department of Economic Security
Division of Child Support Enforcement
www.azdes.gov/dcse
listing of these companies, visit the Arizona Department
of Insurance website at www.azinsurance.gov, select
“Consumers” or contact the Consumer Affairs Division at
602-364-2499 or 800-325-2548.
The Industrial Commission of Arizona administers the
Workers’ Compensation Law. Visit their website at
www.ica.state.az.us/Claims/Claims_main.aspx or call
602-542-4661 or 520-628-4661 for more details.
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY
The Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health
(ADOSH) operates under an approved plan with the
U.S. Department of Labor to retain jurisdiction over
occupational safety and health issues within Arizona,
excluding mining operations, Indian Reservations and
federal employees. ADOSH provides a number of free
forms, posters and brochures to assist its constituency
with keeping workplaces safe and hazard-free.
Download these items from their website at
www.ica.state.az.us/ADOSH/ADOSH_main.aspx or call
602-542-5795, 520-628-5478, or 855-268-5251.
For numerous resources and information designed
speci?cally for smaller employers, including safety and
health tools and publications, easy-to-follow guides for
speci?c OSHA standards, and descriptions of bene?ts
that small businesses receive from OSHA, visit their
website at www.osha.gov/dcsp/smallbusiness/index.html
or call 800-321-6742.
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EMPLOYEE COMPENSATION
AND BENEFITS
Employers often compensate workers in ways beyond
paying wages or a salary, such as by providing fringe
bene?ts such as health insurance and retirement plans.
INDIVIDUAL AND GROUP HEALTH INSURANCE
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, home-based business,
or small business with employees, selecting the coorect
individual or group health plan is important. Along with
selecting your health plan, selecting an insurance carrier
is also important. Look for an insurance company with
a solid network of health care providers, timely claims
service, and relatively stable premiums. The Arizona
Department of Insurance website, www.azinsurance.gov,
provides information on consumer publications,
compared premiums, complaint ratios, health insurance
resources and more.
HEALTH CARE REFORM INFORMATION
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act was
passed on March 23, 2010. Provisions in the new
law become effective at varying dates through 2020.
For a summary of key provisions, visit the website at
www.id.state.az.us/healthcarereform.html.
In addition, through many chamber and association
memberships, businesses have access to a variety of
group insurance plans. See Chapter 8 for the contact
information of the many chambers of commerce and
associations in Arizona.
REQUIREMENTS FOR POSTERS
EMPLOYERS MUST DISPLAY
Federal and state laws require employers to display
of?cial labor and employment posters detailing federal
and applicable state labor laws where employees can
read them. Both federal agencies and state agencies
provide posters to employers at no cost.
On the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) website,
www.dol.gov/compliance/topics/posters.htm, free
electronic ?les are provided for printing copies of
the federally required posters. To obtain posters or
for more information about poster requirements or
other compliance assistance, you may contact DOL at
866-487-2365.
Required posters under the jurisdiction of
the Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA)
may be downloaded from their website at
www.ica.state.az.us/HomePage/HOME_Poster_Rules.aspx.
Information about required notices/posters under the
jurisdiction of other state agencies may be accessed from
the website,http://az.gov/business_workposters.html.
Contact your city/town of?ce for local smoking
ordinances.
In addition, the requirements for posters you may
need in your place of business are listed on the SBA
website, www.sba.gov/content/posters, along with an
explanation on compliance.
Healthcare Group of Arizona (HCG) is a state-sponsored
health plan that offers bene?t plan options for
businesses with two to ?fty employees. For more
information, visit www.hcgaz.gov or call 602-417-6755
or 800-247-2289.
RETIREMENT PLANS
There are many bene?ts for you and your employees
in setting up a retirement plan. For forms, publications,
and information on how to start, maintain and administer
a retirement plan, visit www.retirementplans.irs.gov.
A SIMPLE (Savings Incentive Match Plan for
Employees of Small Employers) IRA plan provides
you and your employees with a simpli?ed way
to contribute toward retirement. It reduces
taxes and, at the same time, attracts and retains
quality employees. For more information, visit
www.dol.gov/ebsa/publications/simple.html.
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W O R K F O R C E A S S I S T A N C E
AZ EE 63
ARIZONA WORKFORCE
CONNECTION
Arizona Workforce Connection is a statewide system
of workforce development partners that provide value-
added services at no cost to employers who seek access
to skilled new hires and existing worker training resources.
The Governor’s Council on Workforce Policy (GCWP)
presides over the workforce system and assists the
Governor in the development of a State Plan that
coordinates a statewide system of activities for
Workforce. The GCWP also designates local workforce
areas throughout the state.
There are more than a dozen designated Local Workforce
Investment Areas throughout Arizona. They are typically
found within each county. For more information, please
visit www.azcommerce.com/services/skilled-workforce.
Arizona employers pro?t from services tailored for unique
business needs. Through a network of one-stop centers
and online services, the Arizona Workforce Connection
provides:
• Seamless Access to Workforce Resources
• Employee Recruitment
• Labor Market Information
• Job Training and Hiring Tax Credits
• Customized Training and Skills Upgrading
• Solutions to Common Employee Barriers
• Pre-Layoff Assistance
The One-Stop Service Centers are located within each
of Arizona’s counties. To quickly locate the One-Stop
Service Center within your county, visit their website at
`.
Employers can post job openings using the
Employment Services site on www.azjobconnection.gov,
select “Find Employees.”
WORKFORCE TRAINING PROGRAMS
For a list of approved Workforce Training programs and providers, visit www.azjobconnection.gov, select “Resources.”
Contact your local One-Stop Service Center and/or community college for a listing of workforce training programs.
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ARIZONA JOB TRAINING PROGRAM
The Arizona Job Training Program is a job-speci?c
reimbursable grant program that supports the design and
delivery of customized training to meet speci?c needs of
employers, create new jobs, and help increase the skill
and wage levels of employees in Arizona.
This program can provide grant money to businesses
for training new employees or to supplement training
programs for incumbent employees. The program is
streamlined, ?exible and tailored to meet the speci?c
needs of each employer.
Once awarded, an employer may take up to two years to
complete the approved training program. As soon as the
training is complete, the employer may apply for a new
grant for additional job-speci?c training.
All applications are taken on a ?rst-come, ?rst-served
basis, and grants are awarded based on the availability
of funds at the time the application is approved. For
application forms, or to receive additional information,
visit the Arizona Commerce Authority website at
www.azcommerce.com/job-training or call 602-845-1200.
64 AZ EE
APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM
Apprenticeship is a proven strategy that combines
on-the-job training with related theoretical and practical
classroom instruction to prepare exceptional workers for
Arizona’s industry. Registered apprenticeship is a training
system that produces highly skilled workers that meet the
demands of employers competing in a global economy.
Private and public sectors – individual employers,
employer associations, or joint labor/management
sponsors – operate registered apprenticeship programs.
Program sponsors pay most of the training costs while
also paying progressively increasing wages to apprentices
as they gain skills. Registered apprenticeship programs
may be competency-based or time-based depending on
program sponsor needs.
Arizona has more than 100 registered apprenticeship
programs currently providing training to 3,000
apprentices. For more information and a complete
list of Arizona registered apprenticeships, visithttp://azapprenticeship.com.
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MAR KE T I NG AND SE L L I NG
YOUR P R ODUCT S OR SE R VI CE S
66 • Business Development
» Bringing Your Technology to Market 66
» Advancing Your Manufacturing 71
» Expanding to International Markets 71
73 • Government Procurement Opportunities
» Federal, State, and Local Government Procurement 73
» Certi?cation Programs 75
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to
the fact that much of the information is created by external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
7
Busi ness Devel opment and Pr ocur ement Oppor t uni t i es
AZ EE 65
The Arizona Innovation Challenge (AIC), powered by the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), awards the most money in the country for
a technology commercialization challenge – $3 million ($1.5 million twice yearly) to Arizona’s most promising technology ventures.
2012 AIC Awardees
66 AZ EE
B U S I N E S S D E V E L O P M E N T
BRINGING YOUR TECHNOLOGY TO MARKET
Research is the fertile ground from which most technology ventures spring. Arizona’s universities are able to assist you
in moving your technology closer to commercialization and provide you with expert advice and quali?ed assistance.
TECHNOLOGY LICENSING
Technology licensing involves bringing scienti?c inventions from the universities to the private sector.
ARIZONA TECHNOLOGY ENTERPRISES
480-884-1996
www.azte.com
Arizona Technology Enterprises (AzTE) works with
university inventors and industry to transform scienti?c
progress into products and services. AzTE transfers
technologies invented at ASU to the private sector
by mining university research, prosecuting patents,
negotiating licenses and marketing inventions.
NAU VENTURES, LLC
928-523-3711http://nauventures.net
The purpose of NAU Ventures, LLC is to license or
otherwise commercialize the intellectual property owned
or controlled by the Arizona Board of Regents, Northern
Arizona University (NAU) or Northern Arizona University
Foundation (NAUF), and to perform other technology
transfer and intellectual property management services
for university.
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UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA,
OFFICE OF TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER
520-621-5000
www.ott.arizona.edu
The Of?ce of Technology Transfer assists faculty with
intellectual property development, facilitates relationships
with commercial partners and helps to create strategies
to bring inventions and discoveries to market.
The Federal Laboratory Consortium for Technology
Transfer (FLC) is a nationwide network of federal
laboratories that can assist entrepreneurs in
leveraging research and expertise into commercial
technology opportunities. These resources are
available for technology venture partnering, testing,
or enhancing technology portfolios through licensing.
More information can be found at www.federallabs.org.
BUSINESS SERVICES AT
ARIZONA’S PUBLIC RESEARCH UNIVERSITIES
Universities are able to offer a variety of resources and
assistance to businesses of all sizes:
• Expert advice
• Advanced technologies
• Workforce education
• Research collaborations
ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
ASU Venture Catalysthttp://asuventurecatalyst.org
SkySong, the ASU Scottsdale Innovation Centerhttp://skysong.asu.edu
Spirit of Enterprise Centerhttp://wpcarey.asu.edu/spirit/index.cfm
Innovation Advancement Program
www.law.asu.edu/Default.aspx?alias=www.law.asu.edu/tvg
NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY
The Of?ce of the Vice President for Research
www.research.nau.edu
UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
The Of?ce of the Vice President for Research,
Graduate Studies, and Economic Development (OVPR)
www.vpr.arizona.edu
The Of?ce of Research and Contract Analysis (ORCA)
www.orca.arizona.edu
Sponsored Projects Services
www.sps.arizona.edu
ARIZONA RESEARCH CENTERS
Arizona’s technology business community may utilize
research centers and institutions to determine the
viability of their product.
ACCELERATOR AND INCUBATOR PROGRAMS
Consider the bene?ts of business accelerators and
incubators in developing your business concept and
supporting your new business. These services include
of?ce and lab space, coaching, consulting and shared
support services. For-pro?t entities often take an equity
stake in participating companies. Non-pro?ts are often
af?liated with an industry association or public
organization and serve as economic development tools
for these constituencies.
The Arizona Commerce Authority’s entrepreneurial
advancement center, Innovation Forward, captures a
forward-thinking, technology feel that attracts, assists,
and incubates entrepreneurs of every level who are
looking to commercialize their products.
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BRINGING YOUR TECHNOLOGY TO MARKET
(continued)
In addition, the ACA’s Arizona Innovation Challenge
advances innovation and technology commercialization
opportunities in Arizona by supporting early stage
ventures in Arizona’s targeted industries. Companies in
the following technology sectors may apply: advanced
materials, advanced manufacturing, aerospace and
defense, bio and life sciences, clean-tech and renewable
energy, and information technology. Companies receiving
awards will be required to commercialize their technology
and generate revenue within one year of the award. For
more information, visithttp://azinnovationchallenge.com.
The Arizona Innovation Accelerator (AIA) program,
housed in Arizona Commerce Authority’s Business
Development Division, serves as a catalyst to
accelerate the growth of emerging technology
businesses throughout the state.
ASU Venture Catalyst is a business accelerator for
technology entrepreneurs at Arizona State University.
The Catalyst Mentoring Program is designed to provide
ventures with the counsel they need to accelerate their
progress and create success. For more information, visithttp://asuventurecatalyst.org/p or call 480-884-1860.
Northern Arizona Center for Entrepreneurship and
Technology (NACET) fosters business growth and
economic vitality, creating high-quality jobs for the region.
Partnering with a wide variety of non-retail, service,
manufacturing, high technology, science and renewable
energy ?rms, NACET offers a hands-on business
incubation engagement program designed to transform
innovation into viable companies. For more information,
visit www.nacet.org or call 928-213-9234.
The Arizona Center for Innovation (AZCI) is a high-tech
incubator promoting the development of high-technology
companies in Southern Arizona through a disciplined
program of business development. The Center focuses on
companies in six technology areas: aerospace, advanced
composites and materials, information technology,
environmental technology, life sciences, and optics/
photonics. For more information, visit www.azinnovation.com
or call 520-382-3260.
Many organizations in Arizona are dedicated to supporting
the Arizona technology business community. Contemporaries,
suppliers and professional organizations can also provide
numerous and pro?table business leads through
networking. See Chapter 8 for the listing and contact
information of the many chambers of commerce,
associations and organizations in Arizona.
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TECHNOLOGY BUSINESS RESOURCES
Arizona Small Business Development Center
(AZSBDC) Network
480-731-8720
www.azsbdc.net select “Second Stage”
Arizona Technology Council
602-343-8324; 520-829-3440
www.aztechcouncil.org
Flinn Foundation
602-744-6802
www.?inn.org
Gangplank
Email: [email protected]http://gangplankhq.com
Kauffman Foundation
816-932-1000
www.kauffman.org
The ASU Research Park, a 324-acre business and
industrial park, is committed to facilitate technology
transfer through university industry research
relationships, and serves to further its development
as a nationally recognized Carnegie Foundation
Research I Institute. Its mission is to enhance
Arizona’s high value research-based economic
development and to build ASU’s capacity to educate
and advance knowledge. For more information,
visithttp://asuresearchpark.com/index.html or call
480-752-1000.
The University of Arizona Science and Technology
Park, one of the Nation’s premier research and
development facilities, offers a unique environment
dedicated to the transfer of technology from the
laboratory to the marketplace. For more information,
visit www.uatechpark.org or call 520-382-2480.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AND
PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
Intellectual property is a broad term that may include
patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, know-how
and other proprietary concepts.
There are several ways to protect your ideas, such
as using a non-disclosure agreement, patenting your
idea, copyrighting your creative works, choosing and
registering your trademarks, registering complementary
domain names, getting your rights in writing, identifying
con?dential information, using non-compete agreements,
and educating your employees and vendors.
PATENT, TRADEMARK AND COPYRIGHT
A patent is a grant of a property right for an invention
that is novel, useful and non-obvious by the U.S. Patent
and Trademark Of?ce. The basis for U.S. patent laws is
to secure for the inventor the exclusive rights of their
discoveries for a limited period of time.
A trademark includes any word, name, symbol or device
adopted and used by an individual or a corporation
to distinguish its goods or services from the goods or
services of others.
A copyright protects the “works” or expressions of an
author or artist against copying, performance, display,
or use as an underlying work. It protects the form of
expression rather than the subject matter or idea of the
writing.
To ?le for a federal patent or trademark, visit the U.S.
Patent and Trademark Of?ce at www.uspto.gov. The U.S.
Copyright Of?ce registers copyright materials. For more
information, visit www.copyright.gov.
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FUNDING FOR RESEARCH-BASED
TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small
Business Technology Transfer Research (STTR) programs
provide research funding for startup and early-stage
companies or ongoing research at established companies.
To obtain more details and to search for current and
past solicitations, visit www.sbir.gov/solicitations.
The Arizona Commerce Authority’s AZ FAST Grant
Program provides seed money to Arizona-based technology
companies to help initiate the commercialization process.
A full description of the requirements and grant
application is online at www.azcommerce.com select
“Incentives.”
In addition, the ACA has been awarded a grant from the
SBA to prepare Arizona’s small, high-tech companies to
compete more effectively for federal SBIR/STTR Phase I
and II awards and ultimately commercialize their
innovations in Phase III. For more details about the
SBIR/STTR proposal training program, PIII Playbook,
visit the ACA website at www.azcommerce.com select
“Incentives.”
The main objective of the Small Business Capital
Investment Tax Incentive Program (Angel Investment
Program) is to expand early stage investments in targeted
Arizona small businesses. The program accomplishes this
goal by providing tax credits to investors who make capital
investment in small businesses certi?ed by the Arizona
Commerce Authority (ACA). For details on how to
become a “quali?ed investor” or “quali?ed small business,”
visit www.azcommerce.com select “Incentives.”
Arizona Innovation Connection, a weekly email
newsletter, provides state and federal funding
opportunities through entities such as the Arizona
Commerce Authority, Science Foundation Arizona,
the Department of Defense, Department of
Homeland Security, National Science Foundation,
and many other State, National, non-pro?t and
foundation programs. To receive this weekly
newsletter, sign up at www.azcommerce.com.
The Science Foundation Arizona (SFAz) plays a pivotal
role in delivering and managing an investment strategy
in research and innovation for Arizona’s economy to
grow and prosper. SFAz lists a variety of programs for
technology companies on their website www.sfaz.org.
For more information, call 602-682-2800.
FEDERAL GRANTS INFORMATION
Federal Grants
www.grants.gov
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
www.sbir.gov/about/about-sbir
Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR)
www.sbir.gov/about/about-sttr
U.S. Small Business Administration Technology Grants
www.sba.gov under “Loans & Grants,” select “Research
Grants for Small Businesses”
See Chapter 3 for angel investors, venture capital
?rms and more.
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ADVANCING YOUR MANUFACTURING
ARIZONA’S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY
Arizona is host to a diverse and strong manufacturing
industry base with more than 450 manufacturing facilities
in the aerospace and defense, semiconductor, electronics,
and IT industries. The state is also developing strengths in
the bioscience, software and green industries.
ARIZONA COMMERCE AUTHORITY’S
MANUFACTURING EXTENSION PARTNERSHIP (MEP)
The Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) works
with Arizona manufacturers to help them become more
pro?table and globally competitive by providing technical
expertise and hands-on assistance to deliver customized
solutions.
MEP focuses its efforts on delivering measurable results
to manufacturers in ?ve speci?c areas:
• Technology Acceleration
• Continuous Improvement
• Sustainability
• Workforce Development
• Supplier Development
MEP is an af?liate of the National Institute of Standards
and Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership
(NIST MEP) through the U.S. Department of Commerce.
For more information, visit www.azcommerce.com or call
602-845-1200.
As a public/private partnership, the U.S. Department
of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and
Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership
(NIST MEP) provides a variety of services, from
innovation strategies to process improvements to
green manufacturing. For more information, visit
www.nist.gov/mep/about.cfm.
MANUFACTURER’S RESOURCES
Arizona Manufacturers Council
www.azchamber.com/amc
Arizona – Sonora Manufacturing Initiative
www.arizonasonoramnfg.com
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
www.sba.gov/content/contracting-manufacturing
EXPANDING TO
INTERNATIONAL MARKETS
INTERNATIONAL SALES
The International Division of the Arizona Commerce
Authority helps develop international trade opportunities
for Arizona businesses and puts together several
international trade missions a year, encouraging the
participation of Arizona entrepreneurs.
Companies with a desire to expand international should
do their homework before jumping into an unknown
business environment. A company must go into
international ventures with a long-term ?nancial
commitment as well as a sense of its risk-reward factors.
For example, a culturally sensitive business plan provides
for an international road map, and entrepreneurs
establishing foreign ventures must familiarize themselves
with prevailing local laws, industry-speci?c regulations,
and export and import licenses.
Securing state and federal licenses are also important
elements for international trade. International currency
contracts also must be negotiated to allow for payment at
market rates for goods and services provided. Shipping
and insurance costs also will ?gure into the equation.
While the Internet can initially provide assistance in
making contact with prospective foreign markets, it’s
no substitute for the face-to-face contact that should
be considered a requirement before conducting any
business operations abroad.
To attend an ACA trade mission, participate in an
international trade show, or to establish your international
business ties and expand your business, visit the ACA
website at www.azcommerce.com. Under “Services,” select
“International Business Services” or call 602-845-1200.
ARIZONA’S STATE TRADE AND EXPORT PROMOTION
(STEP) PROGRAM
The Arizona Commerce Authority’s STEP Program offers
services, tools, and ?nancial assistance helping your
company enter the international marketplace:
• Export readiness assessment of your small business
• Export education and counseling for your company
so that you can be informed and equipped for
success on the international stage
• Assistance with market selection strategy for your
company so that it explores and enters markets that
are best suited for your product or service
• Assistance to your company with development
of international marketing materials, including >
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SBA offers a number of loan programs designed to
support small business exports. For more details, visit
www.sba.gov/content/export-loan-programs.
SBA’s online Export Business Planner offers a ready-
made, customizable and easily accessible document
that may be updated and referenced continuously as
your business grows. Download the planner from the
SBA website at www.sba.gov/exportbusinessplanner.
U.S. COMMERCIAL SERVICE’S
EXPORT ASSISTANCE CENTER
Arizona’s Export Assistance Center (with three of?ces
in Arizona), part of the U.S. Commercial Service of the
U.S. Department of Commerce, is a federal government
agency dedicated to helping small and medium-sized
Arizona companies enter international markets.
Services include:
• World class market research
• Trade events that promote your product or service
to quali?ed buyers
• Introductions to quali?ed buyers and distributors
• Counseling and advocacy through every step of the
export process
To learn more about how the U.S. Commercial Service can
help your company export, visithttp://export.gov/arizona,
or call 602-640-2513 or 520-670-5540.
Arizona Abroad, a newsletter of the U.S. Export
Assistance Centers of Arizona, provides information
on upcoming trade events and local opportunities in
Arizona.
ARIZONA-MEXICO COMMISSION
The Arizona-Mexico Commission’s vision is to promote
a strong, cooperative relationship with Mexico; facilitate
the movement of goods, services, people, and information
through Mexico and Latin America; and encourage
security and sustainable development within our border
communities. For more information, visit www.azmc.org
or call 602-542-1345.
CANAMEX CORRIDOR
Arizona continues to strategically invest in infrastructure
to increase competitiveness in global trade, create jobs,
and maximize economic potential. The CANAMEX
Corridor is the cornerstone of a dynamic trade shed
linking a consumer market of more than 54 million
people and moving goods, services and information
seamlessly and ef?ciently among Canada, the United
States and Mexico. For more information, contact
[email protected].
brochures and websites (and translation of these
materials, if necessary, into the language of the
target country/region market)
• Assistance to your company in identifying actual,
potential buyers, agents, distributors, end users and
other strategic partners in international markets
• Opportunities for your company to participate
in sector-speci?c trade missions/summits (both
internationally and in the U.S.) that have been
carefully selected, comprehensively prepared,
and professionally led by ACA staff to maximize
opportunities for success
Companies wishing to participate in the Arizona
STEP Program should visit the ACA website at
www.azcommerce.com. Select “Incentives” for more
details.
The State Trade and Promotion Grant Program
is partially funded by the U.S. Small Business
Administration (SBA). SBA’s funding is not an
endorsement of any products, opinions or services.
All SBA funded programs are extended to the public
on a nondiscriminatory basis.
EXPANDING TO INTERNATIONAL MARKETS
(continued)
Find out if your company is ready to export by
taking the Export Readiness Questionnaire athttp://export.gov/begin/assessment.asp.
The Trade Information Center (TIC) works in
conjunction with your export assistance center. TIC
offers a wide range of current industry and trade
information to help exporters of U.S. goods and
services ?nd the information they need to compete
successfully in overseas markets. For more information,
visithttp://export.gov or call 800-872-8723.
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AZ EE 73
GOVER NMENT P R OCUR EMENT OP P ORT UNI T I ES
Federal, state and local governments offer businesses the opportunity to sell billions of dollars worth of products
and services.
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) website
lists the steps to registering as a federal contractor at
www.sba.gov under “Contracting.” SBA ensures that
small businesses have access to long-lasting development
opportunities to receive government contracts.
SBA conducts a free workshop, Selling to the Federal
Government. For schedules and registration, visit
their website at www.sba.gov/az or call 602-745-7208.
>
To succeed in the federal government contracting
process, you ?rst need to:
1. Obtain a DUNS (Data Universal Numbering
System) number,
2. Have an Employer Identi?cation Number (EIN),
3. Identify your NAICS and SIC codes, and
4. Register your business with the System of Award
Management.
The System for Award Management (SAM) is a
Federal Government owned and operated free
website that consolidates the capabilities in CCR/
FedReg, ORCA and EPLS. Future phases of SAM will
add the capabilities of other systems used in federal
procurement and awards processes.
Creating a pro?le in SAM and keeping it current
ensures your ?rm has access to federal contracting
opportunities. To register, visithttps://sam.gov and
click “create an account” or call 866-606-8220.
ADDITIONAL FEDERAL RESOURCES
Online Representations and Certi?cations Application
(ORCA)https://orca.bpn.gov
Government Services Administration (GSA) Schedule
www.gsa.gov/schedules
FedBizOpps (FBO)
www.fbo.gov.
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STATE OF ARIZONA PROCUREMENT
To familiarize yourself with the State of Arizona’s
procurement process, visit the State Procurement Of?ce
(SPO) website athttp://spo.az.gov, and select “Contractor
Resources.” Here you will ?nd information on how to do
business with the state, bidding opportunities and
instructions on how to use ProcureAZ, the state’s
eProcurement system.
You must register your company in ProcureAZ to freely
participate in the State of Arizona’s bidding and
contracting opportunities. To register online, visithttps://procure.az.gov/bso. For further information,
contact the ProcureAZ Help Desk at 602-542-7600.
Arizona State University
Small Business & Diversity Program
480-965-6778http://cfo.asu.edu/purchasing-diversity
Northern Arizona University
Contracting and Purchasing Services
928-523-4557http://home.nau.edu/purchasing
University of Arizona
Small Business Utilization Program
520-621-2888
www.pacs.arizona.edu/supplier_diversity
LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT
The State Purchasing Cooperative is a program of the
Arizona Department of Administration and the State
Procurement Of?ce, whereby members may participate in
cooperative procurement opportunities through the use of
designated Arizona State contracts and related services.
Currently, there are more than 545 members of the State
Purchasing Cooperative. The program is comprised of
many political subdivisions (counties, cities, school districts,
etc.). In addition to the State Purchasing Cooperative,
there are a number of other purchasing cooperatives
active throughout Arizona. For more information, visit the
State Procurement Of?ce website athttp://spo.az.gov
and select “Cooperative Procurement.”
In addition, vendors are encouraged to approach the
purchasing departments of each county and city/town
to present their products and/or services. See Chapter 5
for the listing of county/city/town websites and contact
numbers.
MARICOPA COUNTY
Maricopa County encourages all interested
suppliers to register to do business with the county’s
e-procurement application, Bidsync. To register, visit
www.maricopa.gov/materials or call 602-506-3967.
PIMA COUNTY
The Pima County Procurement Department is
dedicated to conserving public funds and conducting
its procurement process in a fair, open and competitive
manner. Visit www.pima.gov/procure/venreg.htm to
register your company or contact Vendor Relations at
520-740-3807 or 520-740-8260.
It’s Small Business Enterprise (SBE) program offers
incentives to small businesses interested in doing
business with Pima County. For more information
on the SBE program, visit www.pima.gov/procure/sbe
or call 520-740-3296.
CONTRACTING RESOURCES
The following organizations provide an understanding of
government contracting and the know-how to obtain and
successfully perform federal, state and local government
contracts.
American Indian Procurement
Technical Assistance Centers (AIPTAC)
928-871-7377
www.ncaied.org/mcs/uida-consulting-group
Arizona Diversity Business Development Center
602-300-2682
www.azbizopps.org
Arizona Procurement Technical Assistance Center
(PTAC)
480-731-8720
www.azsbdc.net/special-programs/procurement
BidSource
602-495-6492
www.bidsource.com
City of Phoenix, Vendor Help Center
602-262-7181http://phoenix.gov/business/contract/vendor/index.html
Grand Canyon Minority Supplier Development Council
(GCMSDC)
602-495-9950
www.gcmsdc.org
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GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT OPPORTUBITIES (continued)
Phoenix MBDA Business Center
602-248-0007; 800-428-7299http://phoenixmbdacenter.com
Women’s Business Enterprise Council West
480-969-9232
www.wbec-west.org
CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS
Many government agencies require that some percentage
of their procurements be set aside for small businesses.
Certifying your business will help you successfully
compete for government contracts.
FEDERAL CERTIFICATION
The federal government sets aside certain contract
bid opportunities exclusively for small businesses. As
part of the registration process, you must register your
business with the federal government’s SAM, the
primary database of vendors doing business with the
federal government. In SAM, you may self-certify as a
small business, but you must meet the federal
government’s de?nition of a small business. For more
information, visit www.sba.gov, and under “Contracting,”
select “Small Business Certi?cations & Audiences.”
SBA conducts a free workshop, Selling to the Federal
Government. It includes understanding certi?cation
programs such as 8(a) and HUBZone. For schedules
and registration, visit their website at www.sba.gov/az
or call 602-745-7208.
The 8(a) Program is a business development program
created to help small, disadvantaged businesses
compete in the marketplace. To apply for 8(a)
certi?cation, visit www.sba.gov/8a or call 602-745-7200.
The Historically Underutilized Business Zones
(HUBZone) program helps small businesses in urban
and rural communities gain preferential access to
federal procurement opportunities. To apply for the
HUBZone Certi?cation, visit www.sba.gov/hubzone.
ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION’S
DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM
(DBE)
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has
established a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)
program in accordance with the regulations of the
U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). The DBE
program ensures a “level playing ?eld” and fosters equal
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opportunity in all ADOT assisted contracts that include
highway, transit and airport programs.
The ADOT Supportive Services Program is designed to
assist quali?ed small businesses to become certi?ed as
DBE ?rms. Once certi?ed, the program strives to assist
those ?rms to become self-suf?cient in their respective
industry. Visit ADOT DBE Supportive Services blog at
www.adotdbe.com for upcoming events and latest updates.
Arizona Department of Transportation
Business Engagement and Compliance Of?ce,
Supportive Services Program
1135 N. 22nd Avenue, 2nd Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-712-7761
www.azdot.gov/Inside_ADOT/CRO/DBEP.asp
CITY OF PHOENIX’S SMALL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE
(SBE) AND DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE
(DBE) CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS
The city of Phoenix extends an equal economic
opportunity to compete for business for all small
businesses interested in participating in SBE and
federally assisted DBE contracts including airport
concessions and airport, highway, and transit-related
projects.
The Equal Opportunity Department (EOD) Business
Relations Division administers the SBE Certi?cation and
the DBE Certi?cation Programs. EOD offers certi?cation
services at no cost. Workshops are offered monthly and
staff is available to assist you in the application process.
City of Phoenix
Equal Opportunity Department (EOD)
251 W. Washington Street, 7th Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85003
602-262-6790http://phoenix.gov/eod/programs/index.html
>
AZ EE 75
76 AZ EE
THIRD-PARTY CERTIFICATION
Grand Canyon Minority Supplier
Development Councilhttp://gcmsdc.org/certi?cation/application
National Women Business Owners Corporation
(NWBOC)
www.nwboc.org/Basic_Info
U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce
www.uswcc.org/certi?cation.aspx
Women’s Business Enterprise Council-West
www.wbec-west.com, and select “Certi?cation”
CITY OF TUCSON’S SMALL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE
(SBE) PROGRAM AND DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS
ENTERPRISE (DBE) PROGRAM
The city of Tucson provides opportunities and incentives
to certi?ed ?rms located in Pima County on projects
and contracts administered by the city’s procurement
department.
The general information and certi?cation applications
for SBE and DBE may be obtained from the Of?ce of
Equal Opportunity Programs (OEOP) website. Many
small businesses may also qualify as a DBE. Only one
application and one set of supporting documentation is
required, even when multiple categories are identi?ed.
City of Tucson
Of?ce of Equal Opportunity Programs (OEOP)
201 N. Stone, Third Floor, Tucson, AZ 85726
520-791-4593http://cms3.tucsonaz.gov/oeop
The Arizona UCP has been established to facilitate
statewide DBE certi?cation. The UCP eliminates
the need for DBE applicant businesses to obtain
certi?cation from multiple agencies, and provides
reciprocity within Arizona. The Arizona Department
of Transportation, City of Phoenix, and the City of
Tucson are members of the Arizona UCP. The of?cial
UCP DBE database includes DBE ?rms certi?ed by
these three agencies at www.azdbe.com/DBE_search.aspx.
If you are certi?ed with the Arizona Department of
Transportation, City of Phoenix or City of Tucson as a
Small (SBE) or Disadvantaged (DBE) Business Enterprise,
you will automatically be listed in the Arizona Steps
Up Directory. This free online directory is an electronic
resource for state procurement and public purchasing
personnel to locate certi?ed small and disadvantaged
businesses. For the listing of all certi?ed businesses,
visithttp://az.gov/app/azstepsup/home.xhtml.
GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT OPPORTUBITIES (continued)
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NE T WOR KI NG I N
T HE BUSI NE SS COMMUNI T Y
78 • Business Affliations
» Networking in the Business Community 78
» Chambers of Commerce 79
» Minority and Women Business-Owed Organizations 84
85 • Associations
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to
the fact that much of the information is created by external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
8
Busi ness Af f i l i at i ons and Associ at i ons
AZ EE 77
Arizona Small Business Association (ASBA) is the largest trade association in Arizona representing 11,000+ member businesses and more than
half a million employees in all 15 counties. ASBA creates opportunities for small businesses to make money, save money and have a voice in public policy.
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78 AZ EE
B U S I N E S S A F F I L I A T I O N S
NETWORKING IN THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY
Joining chambers of commerce, associations and organizations, and actively participating in them is a great way to
market your business. As a member, you can network with other members to promote your business.
From seminars and luncheons to business expos and
various business committees, there’s absolutely no
excuse for not being able to meet new contacts, referrals
and people who can help you with ideas and additional
ways to grow your business.
The following pages of this section provide contact
information of the many chambers of commerce,
associations and organizations in Arizona.
STEPS TO SUCCESSFUL NETWORKING
1. Choose the right setting. Make sure that the
purpose of the function is to promote business.
2. Go prepared. Always carry your business cards.
Be ready with a “3-minute commercial” describing
your key business bene?ts.
3. Don’t overwhelm contacts. Don’t bore people
with excessive details about your company when
you ?rst meet them. Save the speci?cs for a
second meeting, unless your new acquaintance
asks to know more.
BUSINESS ADVOCACY
Many Arizona membership organizations are the voice
of business and the guardians of the business climate.
They ensure that lawmakers understand small business
concerns with regard to government policies and legislation.
Business advocacy creates a stronger and more
sustainable business community. The result is a better
community to attract, retain and expand business.
BUSINESS ADVOCACY
Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED)
602-240-2233 www.aaed.com
Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI)
602-248-9172 www.azchamber.com
National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB)
602-263-7690 www.n?b.com/arizona
U.S. Small Business Administration Of?ce of Advocacy
202-205-6533 www.sba.gov/advo
AZ EE 79
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE
Contact your local chamber to learn more about their
organization and the multitude of educational courses,
events and bene?t programs that can be offered to you.
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE ALLIANCES
Alliances serve as the public policy advocacy body on
issues that impact the business and economic climate
of the areas served by their participating chambers of
commerce members.
East Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance
www.evcca.org
Southern Arizona Chamber of Commerce Alliance
www.southernarizonachambers.com
West Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliancehttp://wvcca.com
Ajo
Ajo District Chamber of Commerce
520-387-7742 www.ajochamber.com
Alpine
Alpine Area Chamber of Commerce
928-339-4656 www.alpinearizona.com
Apache Junction
Apache Junction Chamber of Commerce
480-982-3141 www.ajchamber.com
Arizona City
Arizona City Chamber of Commerce
520-466-5141
Avondale
Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce
623-932-2260 www.southwestvalleychamber.org
Benson
Benson-San Pedro Valley Chamber of Commerce
520-586-2842 www.bensonchamberaz.com
Bisbee
Bisbee Chamber of Commerce
520-432-5421 www.bisbeearizona.com
Black Canyon City
Black Canyon City Chamber of Commerce
623-374-9797
Bouse
Bouse Chamber of Commerce
928-851-2509http://bousechamber.org
Brenda
McMullen Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-859-3846 www.azoutback.com/mcmullen.htm
Buckeye
Buckeye Valley Chamber of Commerce
623-386-2727 www.buckeyevalleychamber.org
Bullhead City
Bullhead Area Chamber of Commerce
928-754-4121 www.bullheadchamber.com
Camp Verde
Camp Verde Chamber of Commerce
928-567-9294 www.visitcampverde.com
Carefree-Cave Creek
Carefree-Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce
480-488-3381 www.carefreecavecreek.org
Casa Grande
Greater Casa Grande Chamber of Commerce
520-836-2125; 800-916-1515 www.casagrandechamber.org
Casas Adobes
Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce
520-297-2191 www.orovalleychamber.com
Catalina/Catalina Foothills
Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce
520-297-2191 www.orovalleychamber.com
Chandler
Chandler Chamber of Commerce
480-963-4571; 800-963-4571 www.chandlerchamber.com
Chandler
Ocotillo Chamber of Commerce
602-381-2584 www.OcotilloChamber.com
Chino Valley
Chino Valley Area Chamber of Commerce
928-636-2493 www.chinovalley.org
Chloride
Chloride Chamber of Commerce
928-565-2204 www.chloridearizona.com
Christopher Creek
Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-474-4515; 800-672-9766 www.rimcountrychamber.com
Clarkdale
Clarkdale Chamber of Commerce
928-634-9438 www.clarkdalechamber.com
Cochise
Pearce-Sunsites Chamber of Commerce
520-826-3535 www.pearcesunsiteschamber.org
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CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE (continued)
Coolidge
Coolidge Chamber of Commerce
520-723-3009 www.coolidgechamber.org
Cordes Junction and Cordes Lakes
Arizona Highway 69 Chamber of Commerce
928-632-4355 www.arizonahighway69chamber.org
Cottonwood
Cottonwood Chamber of Commerce
928-634-7593 www.cottonwoodchamberaz.org
Dewey-Humboldt
Arizona Highway 69 Chamber of Commerce
928-632-4355 www.arizonahighway69chamber.org
Dolan Springs
Dolan Springs Chamber of Commerce
928-767-4473 www.dolanspringschamberofcommerce.com
Douglas
Douglas Chamber of Commerce
520-364-2477 www.douglasazchamber.org
Dragoon
Pearce-Sunsites Chamber of Commerce
520-826-3535 www.pearcesunsiteschamber.org
Eagar
Springerville-Eagar Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-333-2123 www.springerville-eagarchamber.com
Ehrenberg
Ehrenberg Chamber of Commerce
928-923-9661 www.coloradoriverinfo.com/ehrenberg/chamber
El Mirage
Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce
623-583-0692 www.surpriseregionalchamber.com
Elfrida
Pearce-Sunsites Chamber of Commerce
520-826-3535 www.pearcesunsiteschamber.org
Elgin
Sonoita-Elgin Chamber of Commerce
520-455-5498 www.sonoitaelginchamber.org
Eloy
Eloy Chamber of Commerce
520-466-3411 www.eloychamber.com
Flagstaff
Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce
928-774-4505 www.?agstaffchamber.com
Florence
Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce
520-868-9433http://?orenceazchamber.com
Ft. Mohave
Mohave Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-768-2777 www.mohavevalleychamber.com
Fountain Hills
Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce
480-837-1654 www.fountainhillschamber.com
Gila Bend
Gila Bend Chamber of Commerce
928-683-2002 www.gilabendazchamber.com
Gilbert
Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
480-892-0056 www.gilbertaz.com
Glendale
Glendale Chamber of Commerce
623-937-4754; 800-437-8669 www.glendaleazchamber.org
Globe
Globe-Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-425-4495; 800-804-5623 www.globemiamichamber.com
Golden Valley
Golden Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-565-3311 www.goldenvalleychamber.org
Goldroad
Oatman-Goldroad Chamber of Commerce
928-768-6222 www.oatmangoldroad.org
Goodyear
Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce
623-932-2260 www.southwestvalleychamber.org
Graham County
Graham County Chamber of Commerce
928-428-2511; 888-837-1841 www.graham-chamber.com
Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce & Visitor’s Bureau
888-472-2696 www.grandcanyonvisitorbureau.com
Green Valley
Green Valley Sahuarita Chamber of Commerce
and Visitor Center
520-625-7575; 800-858-5872 www.greenvalleychamber.com
Greer
Pinetop-Lakeside Chamber of Commerce
928-367-4290; 800-573-4031 www.pinetoplakesidechamber.com
Hayden
Copper Basin Chamber of Commerce
520-363-7607 www.copperbasinaz.com
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AZ EE 81
Heber
Heber-Overgaard Chamber of Commerce
928-535-5777 www.heberovergaard.org
Holbrook
Holbrook Chamber of Commerce
928-524-6558; 800-524-2459 www.gotouraz.com/HolbrookF3.html
Hope
McMullen Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-859-3846 www.azoutback.com/mcmullen.htm
Jerome
Jerome Chamber of Commerce
928-634-2900 www.jeromechamber.com
Joseph City
Joseph City Chamber of Commerce
928-288-3475
Kearny
Copper Basin Chamber of Commerce
520-363-7607 www.copperbasinaz.com
Kingman
Kingman Area Chamber of Commerce
928-753-6253 www.kingmanchamber.org
Lake Havasu City
Lake Havasu Area Chamber of Commerce
928-855-4115 www.havasuchamber.com
Litch?eld Park
Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce
623-932-2260 www.southwestvalleychamber.org
Marana
Marana Chamber of Commerce
520-682-4314 www.maranachamber.com
Maricopa
Maricopa Chamber of Commerce
520-568-9573 www.maricopachamber.com
Mayer
Arizona Highway 69 Chamber of Commerce
928-632-4355 www.arizonahighway69chamber.org
Mesa
Mesa Chamber of Commerce
480-969-1307 www.mesachamber.org
Miami
Globe-Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-425-4495; 800-804-5623 www.globemiamichamber.com
Nogales
Nogales-Santa Cruz County Chamber of Commerce
520-287-3685 www.thenogaleschamber.com
Nogales
Nogales Community Development Corporation
520-397-9219 www.nogalescdc.com
Oatman
Oatman-Goldroad Chamber of Commerce
928-768-6222 www.oatmangoldroad.org
Oro Valley
Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce
520-297-2191 www.orovalleychamber.com
Overgaard
Heber-Overgaard Chamber of Commerce
928-535-5777 www.heberovergaard.org
Page
Page-Lake Powell Chamber of Commerce
928-645-2741 www.pagechamber.com
Parker
Parker Area Chamber of Commerce
928-669-2174 www.parkerareachamberofcommerce.com
Payson
Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-474-4515; 800-672-9766 www.rimcountrychamber.com
Pearce
Pearce-Sunsites Chamber of Commerce
520-826-3535 www.pearcesunsiteschamber.org
Peoria
Peoria Chamber of Commerce
623-979-3601 www.peoriachamber.com
Phoenix
Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce
480-753-7676 www.ahwatukeechamber.com
Phoenix
Arcadia Chamber of Commerce
602-381-2584 www.arcadiachamber.org
Phoenix
Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce
602-495-2195 www.phoenixchamber.com
Phoenix
Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce at Anthem –
North Gate
602-495-6483 www.phoenixchamber.com
Phoenix
Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce at Deer Valley
602-495-6483 www.phoenixchamber.com
>
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CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE (continued)
Phoenix
Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce
at South Mountain/Laveen
602-495-6469 www.phoenixchamber.com
Pima
Graham County Chamber of Commerce
928-428-2511; 888-837-1841 www.graham-chamber.com
Pine
Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-474-4515; 800-672-9766 www.rimcountrychamber.com
Pinetop-Lakeside
Pinetop-Lakeside Chamber of Commerce
928-367-4290; 800-573-4031 www.pinetoplakesidechamber.com
Prescott
Prescott Chamber of Commerce
928-445-2000; 800-266-7534 www.prescott.org
Prescott Valley
Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-772-8857 www.pvchamber.org
Quartzsite
Quartzsite Business Chamber of Commerce
928-927-9321 www.quartzsitebusinesschamber.com
Richland
Pearce-Sunsites Chamber of Commerce
520-826-3535 www.pearcesunsiteschamber.org
Rio Rico
Rio Rico Chamber of Commerce
520-377-9336 www.rioricochamberofcommerce.com
Roosevelt
Globe-Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-425-4495; 800-804-5623 www.globemiamichamber.com
SaddleBrooke
Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce
520-297-2191 www.orovalleychamber.com
Safford
Graham County Chamber of Commerce
928-428-2511; 888-837-1841 www.graham-chamber.com
Sahuarita
Green Valley Sahuarita Chamber of Commerce and
Visitor Center
520-625-7575; 800-858-5872 www.greenvalleychamber.com
Salome
McMullen Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-859-3846 www.azoutback.com/mcmullen.htm
Santa Cruz County
Nogales-Santa Cruz County Chamber of Commerce
520-287-3685 www.thenogaleschamber.com
Scottsdale
North Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce
480-889-8987http://northscottsdalechamber.org
Scottsdale
Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce
480-355-2700 www.scottsdalechamber.com
Sedona-Oak Creek Canyon
Sedona Chamber of Commerce
928-282-7722; 800-288-7336 www.sedonachamber.com
Seligman
Seligman Chamber of Commerce
928-273-8140 www.seligmanazchamber.com
Show Low
Show Low Chamber of Commerce
928-537-2326; 888-746-9569
www.showlowchamberofcommerce.com
Sierra Vista
Greater Sierra Vista Area Chamber of Commerce
520-458-6940 www.sierravistachamber.org
Snow?ake
Snow?ake-Taylor Chamber of Commerce
928-536-4331 www.snow?aketaylorchamber.org
Sonoita
Sonoita-Elgin Chamber of Commerce
520-455-5498 www.sonoitaelginchamber.org
Spring Valley
Arizona Highway 69 Chamber of Commerce
928-632-4355 www.arizonahighway69chamber.org
Springerville
Springerville-Eagar Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-333-2123 www.springerville-eagarchamber.com
Stan?eld
Maricopa Chamber of Commerce
520-568-9573 www.maricopachamber.com
Star Valley
Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-474-4515; 800-672-9766 www.rimcountrychamber.com
Strawberry
Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-474-4515; 800-672-9766 www.rimcountrychamber.com
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Sun City/Sun City West
Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce
623-583-0692 www.surpriseregionalchamber.com
Sunizona
Pearce-Sunsites Chamber of Commerce
520-826-3535 www.pearcesunsiteschamber.org
Sunsites
Pearce-Sunsites Chamber of Commerce
520-826-3535 www.pearcesunsiteschamber.org
Superior
Superior Chamber of Commerce
520-689-0200 www.superiorazchamber.net
Surprise
Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce
623-583-0692 www.surpriseregionalchamber.com
Taylor
Snow?ake-Taylor Chamber of Commerce
928-536-4331 www.snow?aketaylorchamber.org
Tempe
Tempe Chamber of Commerce
480-967-7891 www.tempechamber.org
Thatcher
Graham County Chamber of Commerce
928-428-2511; 888-837-1841 www.graham-chamber.com
Tolleson
Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce
623-932-2260 www.southwestvalleychamber.org
Tombstone
Tombstone Chamber of Commerce
888-457-3929http://tombstonechamber.com
Tonto Basin
Globe-Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-425-4495; 800-804-5623 www.globemiamichamber.com
Tubac
Tubac Chamber of Commerce
520-398-2704 www.tubacaz.com
Tucson
Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce
520-297-2191 www.orovalleychamber.com
Tucson
Tucson Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce
520-792-1212 www.tucsonchamber.org
Valle
Valle Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce
928-635-1000
Vicksburg
McMullen Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-859-3846 www.azoutback.com/mcmullen.htm
Wenden
McMullen Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-859-3846 www.azoutback.com/mcmullen.htm
Wickenburg
Wickenburg Chamber of Commerce
928-684-5479; 800-942-5242 www.wickenburgchamber.com
Willcox
Willcox Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture
520-384-2995; 800-200-2272 www.willcoxchamber.com
Williams-Grand Canyon
Williams-Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce
928-635-1418; 800-863-0546 www.williamschamber.org
Winkelman
Copper Basin Chamber of Commerce
520-363-7607 www.copperbasinaz.com
Winslow
Winslow Chamber of Commerce
928-289-2434 www.winslowarizona.org
Yarnell
Yarnell-Peeples Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-427-6582 www.y-pvchamber.com
Youngtown
Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce
623-583-0692 www.surpriseregionalchamber.com
Yuma
Yuma County Chamber of Commerce
928-782-2567 www.yumachamber.org
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MINORITY AND WOMEN BUSINESS-OWNED ORGANIZATIONS
The following list is designed to assist you in your efforts to contact minority and women business-owned
organizations. However, this list may not include all minority and women business organizations. For more information
on additional organizations, visit your public library business resource center or look in the Yellow Pages under
“Organizations and Associations.”
American Indian Chamber of Commerce
480-545-1412 www.aiccaz.org
Arizona Business & Professional Women
Email: [email protected] www.bpwaz.org
Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
602-279-1800 www.azhcc.com
Arizona Hispanic Women Business Alliance
602-279-1800 www.azhcc.com/women_business_alliance.php
Arizona Women’s Education and Employment, Inc.
602-223-4333 www.awee.org
Arizona Veterans Chamber of Commerce
Email: [email protected]http://azvetschamber.com
Asian Chamber of Commerce
602-371-8452 www.asianchamber.org
Associated Minority Contractors of America
602-495-0026 www.amcaaz.com
Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Arizona
www.cccarizona.org
eWomen Network, Arizona Chapter
623-256-4486; 520-977-0214 www.ewomennetwork.com
Grand Canyon Minority Supplier Development Council
602-495-9950 www.gcmsdc.org
Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce
602-307-5200 www.phoenixblackchamber.com
Greater Phoenix Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce
602-266-5055 www.gpglcc.org
Greater Phoenix Urban League
Small Business Assistance Center
602-254-5611 www.gphxul.org
Hispanic Women Corporation
602-954-7995 www.hispanicwomen.org
Impact for Enterprising Women
623-872-3804 www.impactforenterprisingwomen.org
National Association of Women Business Owners
Greater Tucson Chapter
520-326-2926 www.nawbotucson.org
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National Association of Women Business Owners
Phoenix Metro Chapter
480-289-5768 www.nawbophx.org
National Association of Women Business Owners
Sedona-Verde Valley Chapter
Email: [email protected] www.nawbosvv.org
National Association of Women in Construction
Phoenix Chapter
800-552-3506 www.nawic.org
Organization of Women in International Trade, Phoenix
602-361-7339 www.owitphoenix.org
Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce of Arizona
480-650-0075http://paccaz.org
Tucson GLBT Chamber of Commerce
520-615-6436 www.tucsonglbtchamber.org
Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
520-620-0005 www.tucsonhispanicchamber.org
Tucson Southern Arizona Black Chamber of Commerce
520-623-0099 www.tsabcc.org
United Latino Business Coalition (ULBC)
888-788-8522 www.unitedlbc.org
U.S. Veterans Chamber of Commerce
Email: [email protected] www.usvcc.com
U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce
888-418-7922 www.uswcc.org
West Valley Women
602-263-3589 www.westvalleywomen.org
Women of Scottsdale
480-391-6585 www.womenofscottsdale.org
Women’s Business Enterprise Council – West
480-969-9232 www.wbec-west.org
The associations listed below represent only a few of the non-pro?t groups providing business memberships. For more
information on other organizations, web search or look in the Yellow Pages under “Associations.”
A S S O C I A T I O N S
The Encyclopedia of Associations database provides
addresses and descriptions of professional societies,
trade associations, labor unions, cultural and religious
organizations, fan clubs and other groups of all types.
Visit your public library business resource center to
use the database.
To ?nd your local library, visit the website at
www.lib.az.us/LibDir.
American Advertising Federation, Tucson
520-326-1060 www.aaftucson.org
American Council of Engineering Companies of Arizona
602-995-2187 www.acecaz.org
American Institute of Architects, Arizona
602-252-4200; 520-323-2191; 800-367-2781
www.aia-arizona.org
>
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ASSOCIATIONS (continued)
American Massage Therapy Association, Arizona Chapter
www.azamta.org
American Society of Home Inspectors, Arizona Chapter
Email: [email protected] www.azashi.com
American Society of Interior Designers
Arizona North Chapter
602-569-8916http://asidaznorth.org
American Subcontractors Association of Arizona
602-274-8979 www.asa-az.org
Arizona Alarm Association
480-831-1318http://azalarms.org
Arizona Association of Bed & Breakfasts Inns
480-262-7720 www.arizona-bed-breakfast.com
Arizona Association of Chiropractic
602-246-0664 www.azchiropractic.org
Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED)
602-240-2233 www.aaed.com
Arizona Association for Home Care (AAHC)
480-491-0540 www.azhomecare.org
Arizona Association of Licensed Private Investigators
480-535-6620 www.aalpi.org
Arizona Association of Mortgage Professionals
623-972-6180 www.azamp.org
Arizona Association of Realtors
602-248-7787; 800-426-7274 www.aaronline.com
Arizona Automobile Dealers Association
602-468-0888; 800-678-3875 www.AADA.com
Arizona Bankers Association
602-258-1200 www.azbankers.org
Arizona Bioindustry Association
480-779-8101 www.azbio.org
Arizona Broadcasters Association
602-252-4833 www.azbroadcasters.org
Arizona Builders Alliance
602-274-8222; 520-881-7930 www.azbuilders.org
Arizona Business Brokers Association
480-215-7757 www.azbba.org
Arizona Business Travel Association
Email: [email protected] www.azbta.org/about.htm
Arizona Construction Association
602-246-8627; 800-467-8627 www.azca.com
Arizona Guide Association
www.arizonaguides.org
Arizona Health Care Association
602-265-5331http://azhca.org
Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association
602-445-4300 www.azhha.org
Arizona Hotel and Lodging Association
602-604-0729; 800-707-3921 www.azhla.com
Arizona Independent Automobile Dealers Association
602-246-1498; 800-352-4232 www.aiada.net
Arizona Internet Professionals Association
Email: [email protected] www.azipa.org
Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association
602-626-7091 www.azlca.com
Arizona Limousine Association
Email: [email protected]http://azlimousineassociation.org
Arizona Medical Association
602-246-8901; 800-482-3480 www.azmedassn.org
Arizona Newspapers Association
602-261-7655 www.ananews.com
Arizona Nursery Association
480-966-1610 www.azna.org
Arizona Optics Industry Association
520-721-0500 www.aoia.org
Arizona Paralegal Association
www.azparalegal.org
Arizona Physical Therapy Association
602-569-9101; 800-264-APTA (2782) www.aptaaz.org
Arizona Process Servers Association
602-476-1737 www.arizonaprocessservers.org
Arizona Real Estate Investors Association
480-990-7092 www.azreia.org
Arizona Restaurant Association
602-307-9134; 520-791-9106; 888-661-3463
www.azrestaurant.org
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Arizona Retailers’ Association
480-833-0009 www.azretailers.com
Arizona Small Business Association (ASBA)
602-306-4000; 520-327-0222 www.asba.com
Arizona Small Business Association (ASBA) helps
members grow their business with valuable connections
and timely, relevant programs. Networking opportunities
include the monthly Fast & Curious Speed
Networking™, quarterly meetings and mixers, and
signature events.
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Arizona Society of Association Executives
602-266-0133 www.azsae.com
Arizona Society of Certi?ed Public Accountants
602-252-4144; 888-237-0700 www.ascpa.com
Arizona Society of Practicing Accountants
480-782-8872; 800-393-0647 www.aztaxandaccounting.org
Arizona State Auctioneers Association
602-377-1820 www.azauctioneers.org
Arizona State Florists Association
Email: membership@az?orists.org www.az?orists.org
Arizona Tax Research Association
602-253-9121 www.arizonatax.org
Arizona Technology Council
602-343-8324; 520-829-3440 www.aztechcouncil.org
TechConnect is Arizona’s technology magazine. The
bimonthly magazine explores the region’s up-to-the-
minute leading companies, under-the-radar change
agents, and the latest industry trends and issues
propelling the state into high-tech player status.
To subscribe, visit the Arizona Technology Council
website at www.aztechcouncil.org.
Arizona Tooling and Machining Association
602-242-8826 www.arizonatooling.org
Arizona Trucking Association
602-850-6000 www.arizonatrucking.com
Arizona Wine Growers Association
623-236-2338 www.arizonawine.org
Arizona Women Lawyers Association
602-218-5273 www.awla-state.org
Associated General Contractors, Arizona Chapter
602-252-3926 www.azagc.org
Associated Locksmiths of America, Grand Canyon Chapter
800-532-2562 www.aloa.org
Association of Bridal Consultants
480-967-4495 www.bridalassn.com
Association for Supportive Child Care
480-829-0500; 800-535-4599 www.asccaz.org
Automotive Service Association of Arizona
602-544-2600 www.asaaz.org
Executives’ Association of Greater Phoenix
602-241-0864 www.eagp.org
Greater Arizona e-Learning Associationhttp://gazel.org
GrowAZhttp://growaz.org
Home Builders Association of Central Arizona
602-274-6545 www.hbaca.org
Institute of Management Consultants, Arizona Chapter
Email: [email protected] www.imcaz.org
Inventor’s Association of Arizona
Email: [email protected] www.azinventors.org
Local First Arizona
602-956-0909 www.local?rstaz.com
Local First Arizona (LFA) is a non-pro?t organization
working to strengthen communities and local
economies through supporting, maintaining and
celebrating locally owned businesses throughout the
state of Arizona. Utilize it’s online directory to ?nd
hundreds of local member businesses.
Maricopa County Bar Association
602-257-4200 www.maricopabar.org
Maricopa County Medical Society
602-252-2015 www.medical-society.com
Meeting Professionals International, Arizona Sunbelt Chapter
602-277-1494 www.azmpi.org
NAIOP Arizona
The Commercial Real Estate Development Association
602-230-1645 www.naiopaz.org
>
88 AZ EE
ASSOCIATIONS (continued)
National Electrical Contractors Association, Arizona Chapter
602-263-0111 www.azneca.org
National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB)
602-263-7690 www.n?b.com/arizona
National Speakers Association
480-968-2552 www.nsaspeaker.org
Pima County Bar Association
520-623-8258 www.pimacountybar.org
Pima County Medical Society
520-795-7985 www.pimamedicalsociety.org
Printing Industries Association Inc. of Arizona
602-265-7742 www.piaz.org
Professional Beauty Association
480-281-0424; 800-468-2274 www.probeauty.org
State Bar of Arizona
602-252-4804; 520-623-9944; 866-482-9227 www.azbar.org
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The Trade & Professional Associations Directory combines a comprehensive list of the state’s organizations,
representing a wide range of associations from air conditioning contractors to the Arizona Tourism Alliance. You
may order the directory by calling the Arizona Capitol Times at 602-258-7026.
“At the Corporation Commission, we give a copy of the
Entrepreneur’s Edge to customers who are starting new LLCs
or Corporations. Customers are happy to get something in
writing that helps them understand the process and provides
them with some resources for learning how to set up and run a
business. The book answers many of their questions.”
Christy Parker, Customer Service Unit Supervisor
Arizona Corporation Commission Corporations Division
“Customers visit our of?ce in their journey in becoming
entrepreneurs and may not have all of the information they
need to make informative decisions. The AZEE booklet
provides them with the answers to questions they did not
anticipate and helps to better prepare them to proceed.”
Joann Arellano, Director BSD
Arizona Secretary Of State
“I really appreciate the book and all the information it holds – I
do the business licensing for the City of Goodyear and almost
every day there is at least one new business owner who has no
idea where to turn for information – it’s been a great help for
me to give them the Entrepreneur’s Edge.”
Tina Daniels, Small Business Advocate
City of Goodyear
“Having this publication is a great bene?t to us as it outlines
the state level programs and types of assistance out there for
small businesses, and does so in a concise, straightforward
way that is easy for entrepreneurs to utilize. It has allowed
the City of Maricopa to save staff time and costs in creating a
duplicative document to serve these needs.”
Danielle Casey, CEcD, EDFP, Economic Development, Director
City of Maricopa
“Great one-stop-shopping journal for small business owners
to use to locate resources. Replaces hundreds of individual
brochures, and the journal is well organized. We give these
out to all startup clients.”
Tracy Mancuso, Northland Pioneer College SBDC
“The best thing about the guide is that it exists! At the
library, it has been so helpful to have a one-stop
resource that can ?ll so many needs with our customers
who are often new to the entire world of starting and
operating a business. Particularly the contacts, business
structure outline, and focus on agencies that help in the
various situations (as an employer, business name, etc.).”
Sandy Rizzo, Librarian III, Business Specialist, MLS,
Mesa Public Library, Red Mountain Branch
“At the Arizona Department of Revenue, we pass out the Edge
to all new business licensees that we process. Many times we
provide them a copy to read while we input their application
information into our system. We frequently get comments
on how valuable it is to small business owners. Others, who
overhear the comments, request a copy, as well. Thank you
for publishing such a valuable business tool.”
Bob Meist, Arizona Department of Revenue
“We ?nd Arizona Entrepreneur’s Edge to be an amazing
resource for providing the public with everything they need
to know about starting and operating a business in Arizona.
When I hand it out, people usually stop with all their questions
and realize they have something in their hand, they need to
take home and study. Thanks for providing it!”
David Jakim, Records Clerk, City Clerk Of?ce
City of Sedona
“What our of?ce likes about the guide that it full of good
resources, explanations regarding different types of businesses,
registrations, tax and licensing. It is just a perfect tool for
anyone who is just starting out and has a lot of questions.”
Siria Quintero, Tax & License Specialist
City of Mesa Tax and Licensing Of?ce
“The city of Phoenix routinely take the “Entrepreneur’s Edge”
with us to business presentations for distribution as well as
direct individuals to the Arizona Commerce Authority’s
website for the electronic version of the guide. This information
is valuable for both startups and existing businesses, as it
helps them save time toward obtaining accurate business
assistance information.”
Kedrick Ellison, CEcD, MBA
City of Phoenix Community and Economic Development
“One of my favorite parts is the section on ?nancial statements
with the templates that business owners can use to plug in
their numbers. I also like the section on business structure,
licensing and taxes. These are areas where we seem to get a
lot of questions.”
Lorrie Pena, Program Assistant
Central Arizona College SBDC
Appr eci at i on
Small Business Services
www.azcommerce.com/smallbiz 602
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doc_457151857.pdf
As Governor, Arizonas economic turnaround is my focus. I have aimed to make this state the easiest, most attractive location to start and expand a business.
A R I Z O N A
E N T R E P R E N E U R ’ S
E D G E
Resource Gui de t o St ar t i ng, Operat i ng and
Growi ng a Busi ness i n Ari zona
As Governor, Arizona’s economic turnaround is my focus. I have aimed to make this
state the easiest, most attractive location to start and expand a business. After all,
our small business owners and entrepreneurs are the true job creators in Arizona.
They are our most signi?cant stewards of wealth and prosperity.
That’s why I have championed a model for economic recovery in which the
government keeps taxes competitive and regulations lean. We focus on improving
our schools and quality of life, and keep government interference to a minimum in
order to free the private sector to do what it does best: create jobs. It’s working.
The climate we have built for business success here in Arizona is being recognized
nationally. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce just released its Enterprising States
Report, and ranked Arizona among the ten Best States to start a business.
Additionally, Chief Executive Magazine ranked us the 6th-best state in the nation in
which to do business - up four spots in the rankings from a year ago.
I am delighted to bring you this edition of the Entrepreneur’s Edge, Arizona’s of?cial guide for establishing and operating
a small business. My Arizona Commerce Authority stands ready with a host of resources to assist small businesses and
entrepreneurs across our state as they grow their businesses.
Please contact my Arizona Commerce Authority to assist you. Together, I know we will continue to make Arizona a
beacon for entrepreneurs and small-business leaders.
Sincerely,
Janice K. Brewer
Governor
Si gni f i cancy
Small businesses are the backbone of Arizona’s economy and central to the state’s
economic health and well being. They represent 97 percent of all employers,
creating and sustaining jobs for almost one million Arizonans.
Supporting inventive entrepreneurs is a primary focus area for the Arizona
Commerce Authority. After all, today’s big idea becomes tomorrow’s Fortune 500.
For those of you who are creating, operating and expanding business in Arizona, our
Entrepreneur’s Edge is the ideal place to start. This resource is rich with information
to guide you from concept to commercialization . . . and every stage between.
Your entrepreneurial spirit fosters the foundation for economic growth in Arizona.
Look to the Arizona Commerce Authority’s Entrepreneur’s Edge, as well as our
suite of pro-business programs, for assistance every step of the way.
Best of luck with your business venture, and thank you for your continued
commitment to our great state.
Sandra Watson
President and CEO, Arizona Commerce Authority
azcommerce.com
T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to the fact that much of the information is created by
external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
Ar i zona Ent r epr eneur ’s Edge
7
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F R OM I DEA T O BUSI NESS
Busi ness Pl anni ng and Resear ch
SOUR CES OF HEL P
Busi ness Assi st ance and Counsel i ng
F I NANCI NG YOUR BUSI NESS
Fi nanci al Opt i ons and Fundi ng Sour ces
F I L I NG AND R EGI ST ER I NG
Busi ness St r uct ur es and Regi st r at i on
L I CENSI NG AND TAX ES
Busi ness L i censes and Tax I nf or mat i on
HI R I NG EMP L OYEES AND CONT R ACT L ABOR
L abor Gui del i nes and Wor kf or ce Assi st ance
MAR KET I NG AND SEL L I NG YOUR P R ODUCT S OR SER VI CES
Busi ness Devel opment and Pr ocur ement Oppor t uni t i es
NET WOR KI NG I N T HE BUSI NESS COMMUNI T Y
Busi ness Af f i l i at i ons and Associ at i ons
2-14
15-23
24-33
34-42
43-55
56-64
65-76
77-88
AZ EE
F R O M I D E A T O B U S I N E S S
3 • Business Checklist
» Arizona Commerce Authority’s Checklist Program 3
» Steps to Licensing Your Business 3
4 • The Business Plan – Your Road Map to Success
» Business Research Resources 8
» Business Plan Worksheets 9
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to the
fact that much of the information is created by external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
Busi ness Pl anni ng and Resear ch
2 AZ EE
The Arizona Commerce Authority’s Innovation Forward center offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to
take classes, receive business advice, and utilize a large meeting room.
1
A r i z o n a Co mme r c e A u t h o r i t y ’ s ( A CA ) Ch e c k l i s t P r o g r a m
The ACA’s free online Checklist Program is designed to help you easily navigate information on what you need to
know, who you need to contact and where you need to go to license your business in Arizona.
STEPS TO LICENSING YOUR BUSINESS
? Regi steri ng your busi ness
? Obtai ni ng an EIN number
? Fi l i ng for your busi ness l i cense
? Appl yi ng for a state sal es tax l i cense
? Hi ri ng empl oyee requi rements
? Ci ty/town compl i ances
B U S I N E S S C H E C K L I S T
S t a r t u p Ch e c k l i s t
To help you setup your business ef?ciently, legally and soundly, here is a checklist in to-do order to follow:
? Contact one of the free small business assistance
organizations. See Chapter 2, Business Assistance
and Counseling, for organizations that provide
business assistance.
? Select your business support team: tax advisor
(CPA), attorney and insurance agent.
? Develop your business mission statement.
? Prepare a written business plan complete with
?nancial statements.
? Select your business structure: sole proprietorship,
partnership, LLC or corporation.
? Select the business name you will use. Research
the availability of the name.
? Register your business name and structure.
? Select your business location: lease or purchase.
? Review all labor regulations if hiring employees.
? Acquire necessary licenses and/or permits from
federal, state, county and/or city.
? Choose a banker and set up a business bank
account(s).
? Select an accounting system and software and
set up accounting and reporting procedures.
? Secure funding.
? Establish your “store front.”
? Launch!
Special thanks to the Southern Arizona SCORE Chapter
for developing this startup checklist .
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The Checklist guides you through a series of brief
questions to create your own customized business
checklist. From your customized business checklist, you
will be able to either apply online or download your
license applications. It includes telephone numbers and
addresses of all state, county and city/town licensing
of?ces. It also includes contact information to statewide
resources and assistance to accelerate your business
growth.
The process of going through the Checklist generally
takes 10-15 minutes to complete. Visit our website at
www.azcommerce.com/services/small-business-services
to create your customized business checklist.
The following resources provide referrals/listing of, and/or verify, licensed professionals.
Accountant:
Arizona Society of Certified Public Accountants
(ASCPA)
602-252-4144; 888-237-0700
www.ascpa.com
Attorney:
State Bar of Arizona
602-252-4804; 520-623-9944; 866-482-9227
www.azbar.org
Insurance Agent/Broker:
Arizona Department of Insurance
602-364-2499; 800-325-2548
www.azinsurance.gov
4 AZ EE
T H E B U S I N E S S P L A N – Y O U R
Your business plan should be:
• A well-thought-out document stating your goals and
how you plan to develop and ?nance it.
• Primarily for you to prove that you can reach your
?nancial goals as well as personal.
• For lenders, investors and associates to fully understand
what the business is and how it will be done.
P UR P OS E S OF T HE B US I NE S S P L AN
As a planning tool, the business plan guides you through
the various phases of your business. A thoughtful plan
will help identify roadblocks and obstacles so that you
can avoid them and establish alternatives. Many business
owners share their business plans with their employees
to foster a broader understanding of where the business
is going.
As a communication tool, it is used to attract investment
capital, secure loans, convince workers to join the
company, and assist in attracting strategic business
partners. The development of a comprehensive business
plan determines whether a business has the potential
to make a pro?t. It requires a realistic look at almost
every phase of your business and allows you to show
that you have worked out all the problems and decided
on potential alternatives before actually launching your
business.
As a management tool, the business plan helps you
track, monitor, and evaluate your progress. The business
plan is a living document that you will modify as you gain
knowledge and experience. By using your business plan
to establish timelines and milestones, you can gauge
your progress and compare your projections to actual
accomplishments.
Before you begin writing your business plan, consider
the following core questions:
• What service or product does your business
provide?
• What problem in the marketplace does it solve?
• What needs or wants does it ?ll?
• Who are the potential customers for your product
or service and why will they purchase it from you?
• How will you reach your potential customers?
• Where will you get the ?nancial resources to start
your business?
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T H E B U S I N E S S P L A N – Y O U R R O A D M A P T O S U C C E S S
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Note: The following guidelines do not address every aspect of every business plan. You should consider more questions than those posed in each
section. Be sure to ask many questions – your success depends on the completeness of your planning process.
E L E ME NT S OF A B US I NE S S P L AN
I. TITLE PAGE
The title page should contain the following items, double-
spaced, horizontally centered and positioned just above
the center of the page:
• Business name
• Owner(s) name
• Complete contact information
II. TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Table of Contents should list the title of each section
of the document and indicate the page number where
each is located. It also should list speci?c support items
(appendices) by name.
Table of Contents page will be completed last, since
it requires the entire document as input. It allows the
reader to quickly locate speci?c sections.
III. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Most important section of the business plan:
• Should be written last.
• Will be viewed ?rst.
• An enthusiastic snapshot of your company,
explaining who you are, what you do and why.
The Executive Summary should be not more than a
two-page explanation of what your business is and its
competitive advantage.
Here you will provide a clear description of the industry
in which you are competing and a precise explanation of
your business’ unique qualities that set it apart from the
competition. This section is the business description of:
• Your story: Who you are, why you exist (the problem
in the market place), special bene?ts, unique
features, patents and copyrights. Your mission,
vision and core values.
• What you do: Business model, what’s in it for the
customer (the solution you offer), product/service,
production costs, bene?ts, competition and market.
• Where you’re going: What success looks like, goals,
?nancials and proof of pro?tability.
• How you’re going to get there: Action plans, long-
term strategy and roadmap.
IV. MARKETING PLAN
This section should contain a narrative description of
these factors:
A. Product/Service
• What is this industry’s outlook? What is the
demand for your product or service?
• What needs/wants/bene?ts are sought by your
customers (what’s in it for them)?
• Speci?cally, how does your product/service meet
those needs/wants/bene?ts?
• How is your product/service unique from the
competition?
• What customer services do you provide to
support the central product/service?
B. Target Market
First, determine if your focus is on consumers
(end-users) or other businesses. Tailor your responses
to the following appropriate category:
• Describe your customer base. Who and where is
your target market?
• What needs/wants/bene?ts are sought by your
customer that your product/service satis?es?
• When and under what circumstances does your
customer buy your product or service?
• Describe the volume and frequency of your
customer’s purchases.
• Based on available data, what is the expected
volume of your target market?
• Of that target market, what is the projected
volume of actual paying customers?
>
Additional information on writing a business plan can be found on the
U.S. Small Business Administration’s website at www.sba.gov
under the “Starting & Managing a Business” menu, select “Writing a
Business Plan.” Also, under the “Counseling & Training” menu, you
can find local contacts such as AZSBDC and SCORE, who provide FREE,
one-on-one counseling. They can assist you by reviewing your business
plan and your business ideas.
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Consumer: It is important for you to develop a clear,
mental picture of your ideal customers. Describe
your potential customers using the following factors:
age, gender, income, education, location, occupation,
interests, buying habits, and goals and aspirations.
Businesses: If selling to a business, your description
should include type of business, size of business,
priority placed on purchasing your product/service;
projected image of the business, markets that the
business services, its trade organizations and
memberships, and the trade publications read.
C. Competition
A description of your competition should answer the
following questions:
• Who are your major competitors?
• Why are they successful? What are their
strengths and weaknesses?
• What alternatives are there to your product?
• How do alternatives impact your sales?
• What distinctive differences separate you from
your competitors?
• Why should customers leave your competitors to
choose your product/service?
• What market share do you expect?
D. Location Analysis
Describe your business location and how it will
enhance the sale of your product or service. Your
description should answer the following questions:
• What strategic advantages do you have at this
location?
• Is there opportunity for expansion?
• What are the neighboring businesses?
• Do they complement/detract from yours?
• Are renovations needed? At what cost?
• What is the zoning classi?cation?
• Is the neighborhood stale, changing, improving,
deteriorating? How?
• How is customer access, parking, safety, etc.?
Include in the appendix a photograph of the building, a drawing of
the immediate area showing road access and identity of adjoining
businesses, and a drawing of the floor plan of your business.
E. Price Determination
A description of the price structure for your product
or service will answer the following questions:
• How does the unit cost of your product compare
to the relative value seen by the customer?
• How does your price compare with the
competition price?
• Why will customers pay your price?
• What image will this price project?
• What special advantages do your customers get
that is included in the price?
• Will you offer credit terms?
F. Marketing Approach
A description of your marketing effort should answer
the following questions:
• What are the test market results?
• Where do your customers seek information
about purchasing your product/service?
• How will your image be clearly and consistently
conveyed to potential buyers?
• Which media are most suitable?
• How will you evaluate the effectiveness of each
advertising and promotional effort?
• How will you use/evaluate a sales staff?
V. MANAGEMENT PLAN OR OPERATIONAL PLAN
This section contains a detailed description of who will
run the business and how they will do it, including the
following:
A. Management Team
A description of how the business will be managed
will answer these questions:
• What business management background do you
have?
E L E ME NT S OF A B US I NE S S P L AN ( c o n t i n u e d )
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AZ EE 7
• How will that drive the business?
• How is the experience of key people related to
this type of business?
• What legal form will you use, sole proprietorship,
partnership, LLC or corporation?
• Who does what? Who reports to whom?
• What resources are needed and who will provide
them (accountant, lawyer, etc.)?
Key per s onnel r es umes s houl d be i nc l uded i n t he appendi x.
B. Employee Relations
A description of your methods of hiring, training
and communicating with your staff will answer these
questions:
• What are your personnel needs?
• What skills will be required?
• How will you hire and train?
• What salary/bene?ts will be provided?
• How will you determine wage increases?
• What personnel policies will be provided?
C. Operational Controls
A description of the kinds of management systems
and how they will be used will answer these questions:
• What is your production capacity?
• What operating advantages do you have?
• What elements are key to your success?
• How will you monitor these factors?
• What hazards do you anticipate for your business?
• What protection and/or alternate plans do you
have?
• What policies will you establish for the operation
of your business?
• Who are your suppliers?
• How will costs be controlled?
VI. FINANCIAL PLAN
A description of how your business will be ?nanced and
how you will maintain a sound ?nancial condition will
answer the following questions:
A. Current Funding Requirement
• How much money will be needed for starting
your business?
• What will be the sources of startup capital?
• What business and personal assets will be
pledged as collateral?
B. Use of Funds
• How will the money be spent (working capital,
capital expenditures, etc.)?
• How will borrowed funds make your business
more pro?table?
C. Long-Range Financial Strategies
• How will you liquidate your investors’ position?
• What terms of repayment are feasible?
• What will you do if repayment cannot be
accomplished as planned?
D. Financial Statements
To support this section, several ?nancial statements
will be required, such as the following:
• Personal ?nancial statement of owner
• Business startup costs
• Pro forma cash ?ow analysis (expected)
• Balance sheet (actual or proposed)
• Income statement (actual or proposed)
• Breakeven analysis
• Competitive analysis
See wor ks heet s on t he f ol l owi ng pages .
VII. STRATEGIC PLAN
It is important to include a description of where you want
your venture to be in the next few years and how you
intend to achieve those goals.
This strategic plan should focus on years two through ?ve
and include descriptions of the following items:
• Strengths within your organization
• Weaknesses within your organization
• Opportunities available to you
• Threats impeding you
Using these four factors, you should describe strategies
that use your strengths to take advantage of opportunities
and overcome threats and strategies to reduce
weaknesses and avoid threats to your business. They
should identify intermediate goals (yearly) and the
marketing, management and ?nancial resources to
achieve these goals.
Be sure your goals are SMART goals (Speci?c, Measurable,
Achievable, Relevant, Timely).
Special thanks and appreciation to
Roger S. Robinson, Ph.D., Greater Phoenix SCORE, for his time and support in developing this section.
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B U S I NE S S R E S E A R CH R E S OU R CE S
Arizona Commerce Authority
www.azcommerce.com, select “Facts & Figures”
Arizona Commerce Authority, Small Business Services
www.azcommerce.com/services/small-business-services
Arizona Department of Administration
Of?ce of Employment and Population Statistics
www.azstats.gov
Arizona State University’s W.P. Carey School of Business
Center for Competitiveness and Prosperity Researchhttp://wpcarey.asu.edu/seid/ccpr
Arizona State University’s W.P. Carey School of Business
JP Morgan Chase Economic Outlook Centerhttp://wpcarey.asu.edu/seid/eoc
BizStats
www.bizstats.com
Northern Arizona University’s W. A. Franke College of
Business, Arizona Rural Policy Institute (ARPI)
www.franke.nau.edu/RPI
University of Arizona’s Eller College of Management
Economic and Business Research Centerhttp://ebr.eller.arizona.edu
U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)
www.bea.gov
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
www.bls.gov
U.S. Census Bureau, Economic Census
www.census.gov/econ/census/index.html
U.S. Census Bureau, North American Industry
Classi?cation System (NAICS)
www.census.gov/eos/www/naics
U.S. Department of Commerce
www.commerce.gov
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC),
Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval
(EDGAR)
www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml
Visit Your Local Library . . .
It’s a great resource for every stage of your business development.
Librarians will help you ?nd information on every phase of business ownership,
information on writing the business plan, and electronic databases where you can
research industries and competitors.
In addition, libraries provide free access to the Internet. Many libraries present free
programs, workshops and book lists on business topics. To ?nd your local library,
visit the website at www.lib.az.us/LibDir.
Visit the IRS website at
www.irs.gov/businesses
to learn what new
business owners
need to know about
starting a business.
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As of: _____/_____/_________
Assets Amount in Dollars
Cash – checking accounts $___________________________
Cash – savings accounts $___________________________
Certi?cates of deposit $___________________________
Securities – stocks / bonds / mutual funds* $___________________________
Notes and contracts receivable* $___________________________
Life insurance (cash surrender value) $___________________________
Personal property (autos, jewelry, etc.)* $___________________________
Retirement funds (IRAs, 401k, etc.) $___________________________
Real estate (market value) $___________________________
Other assets (specify)* ___________________________________________________________ $___________________________
Total Assets $__________________________
Liabilities Amount in Dollars
Current debt (credit cards, accounts) $___________________________
Notes payable* $___________________________
Taxes payable* $___________________________
Real estate mortgages* $___________________________
Other liabilities (specify)*_______________________________________________________ $___________________________
Total Liabilities $__________________________
Net Worth $__________________________
*Describe in the appropriate section below.
1. Describe securities – stocks/bonds/mutual funds:
2. Describe notes and contracts receivable:
3. Describe personal property:
4. Describe other assets:
5. Describe notes payable:
6. Describe taxes payable:
7. Describe real estate mortgages:
8. Describe other liabilities:
P e r s o n a l F i n a n c i a l S t a t e me n t Wo r k s h e e t
AZ EE 9
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As of: _____/_____/_________
Living Expenses
From last pay check to opening day $___________________________
For three months after opening day (startup cushion) $___________________________
Deposits, Licenses, Prepayments
Deposit for rent $___________________________
Telephone and utilities $___________________________
Business licenses $___________________________
Insurance premiums $___________________________
Leasehold Improvements $___________________________
Remodeling and redecorating $___________________________
Fixtures, equipment, displays $___________________________
Installation labor $___________________________
Signs – outside, inside
Inventory
Service, delivery equipment and supplies $___________________________
Merchandise (approx. 65% of startup costs are invested in opening stock) $___________________________
Operating Expense for the First 3 Months (From Cash Flow Projection) $___________________________
Reserve to Carry Customers’ Accounts $___________________________
Cash for Petty Cash, etc. $___________________________
TOTAL STARTUP CASH NEEDS $__________________________
B u s i n e s s S t a r t u p Co s t s Wo r k s h e e t
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As of: _____/_____/_________
Cash Receipts
Cash Sales $___________________________
Cash from Accounts Receivable $___________________________
Cash from Investments $___________________________
Total Cash Receipts $__________________________
Cash Disbursements
Merchandise, inventory $___________________________
Salary and wages $___________________________
Outside labor $___________________________
Payroll taxes $___________________________
Advertising $___________________________
Car and delivery $___________________________
General of?ce administration $___________________________
Legal and accounting $___________________________
Operating supplies $___________________________
Bad debts $___________________________
Rent $___________________________
Repairs and maintenance $___________________________
Utilities $___________________________
Insurance $___________________________
Taxes and licenses $___________________________
Loan payments (principal and interest) $___________________________
Total Cash Disbursements $__________________________
NET CASH FLOW (+/-) $__________________________
P r o F o r ma Ca s h F l o w A n a l y s i s Wo r k s h e e t
NOTE: This analysis should be done on a monthly basis for the first year and on a quarterly basis for years 2 and 3.
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As of: _____/_____/_________
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash in bank $___________________________
Accounts receivable $___________________________
Inventory $___________________________
Other current assets $___________________________
Total Current Assets $__________________________
Fixed Assets
Machinery & equipment $___________________________
Furniture & ?xtures $___________________________
Land & buildings $___________________________
Other ?xed assets $___________________________
Total Fixed Assets (net of depreciation) $__________________________
TOTAL ASSETS $__________________________
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current Liabilities
Accounts payable $___________________________
Interest payable $___________________________
Taxes payable $___________________________
Notes, short-term (due within 12 months) $___________________________
Current part, long-term debt $___________________________
Other current liabilities $___________________________
Total Current Liabilities $__________________________
Long-Term Debt
Bank loans payable $___________________________
Notes payable to stockholders $___________________________
LESS: Short-term portion $___________________________
Other long-term debt $___________________________
Total Long-term Debt $__________________________
Owners’ Equity
Invested capital $___________________________
Retained earnings – beginning $___________________________
Retained earnings – current $___________________________
Total Owners’ Equity $__________________________
TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY $__________________________
As of: _____/_____/_________
(3 Previous Years for Existing Business) YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3
SALES $__________________________ $__________________________ $__________________________
Less Cost of Goods $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
GROSS PROFIT $__________________________ $__________________________ $__________________________
OPERATING EXPENSES
Salaries and wages $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Commissions $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Outside labor $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Payroll taxes $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Advertising $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Car and delivery $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
General of?ce administration $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Legal and accounting $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Supplies $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Bad debts $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Rent $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Repairs and maintenance $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Utilities $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Insurance $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Taxes and licenses $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Depreciation $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Interest $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
Miscellaneous $___________________________ $___________________________ $___________________________
TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES $__________________________ $__________________________ $__________________________
PROFIT/LOSS BEFORE TAXES $__________________________ $__________________________ $__________________________
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S O U R C E S O F H E L P
F O R Y O U R B U S I N E S S
16 • Business Assistance and Counseling
» Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) 16
» U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) 17
» Arizona Small Business Development Center Network (AZSBDC) 18
» SCORE Arizona 20
22 • Tribal Resources
23
• Entrepreneurship Programs and Business Incubators
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to
the fact that much of the information is created by external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
2
Busi ness Assi st ance and Counsel i ng
The Governor’s Statewide Development conference is a gathering of Arizona’s business and economic development leaders
to discuss best practices and the advancement of Arizona in the global marketplace.
A R I Z ONA COMME R CE A U T HOR I T Y ( A CA )
The ACA is your ?rst stop for developing a successful business. Armed with a growing toolbox of resources, the
business development team provides assistance to help you start, operate and grow your company.
ARE YOU GETTING READY TO
START YOUR BUSINESS?
The ACA is your centralized resource for information on
business licensing and statewide resources to start and
become operational.
ARE YOU SEEKING SKILLED NEW HIRES OR
EXISTING WORKER TRAINING RESOURCES?
The ACA offers a network of one-stop centers and value-
added online services to help you increase your staff’s
skills through job training grants or create a custom-
designed apprenticeship program.
ARE YOU READY TO EXPAND TO
INTERNATIONAL MARKETS?
The ACA will introduce you to quality contacts at a variety
of trade events around the globe and provide you with
individualized counseling, trade missions and the most
recent statistics on trade and current market research
information.
ARE YOU MANUFACTURING A PRODUCT?
The ACA can connect you to helpful resources and assist
you in expanding your market.
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN BRINGING YOUR
TECHNOLOGY TO MARKET?
The ACA supports technology-oriented businesses and
provides links to resources and ideas from innovative
leaders throughout Arizona.
B U S I N E S S A S S I S T A N C E A N D C O U N S E L I N G
ARIZONA’S INCENTIVES, PROGRAMS, AND
GRANTS ADMINISTERED BY ACA
The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) is a business-
savvy organization focused on producing results that
bene?t businesses and the Arizona economy. For
information on Arizona’s incentives, programs and grants
administered by ACA, visit www.azcommerce.com
select “Incentives.”
RELOCATING TO ARIZONA
Working closely with economic partners around the
state, the Arizona Commerce Authority’s Business
Attraction division serves as a single statewide
point of contact to provide the information and
support services needed to properly evaluate the
business opportunities and operating environment
anywhere in Arizona. Visit the ACA website at
www.azcommerce.com, under “Services” select
“Relocating to Arizona” for more information.
333 N. Central Avenue
Suite 1900
Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-845-1200; 800-542-5684
www.azcommerce.com
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U . S . S MA L L B U S I NE S S A D MI NI S T R AT I ON ( S B A )
B U S I N E S S A S S I S T A N C E A N D C O U N S E L I N G
AZ EE 17
The SBA and its nationwide network of partners help millions of potential and current small business owners start,
grow and succeed.
SBA RESOURCES
SBA Direct
www.sba.gov/sba-direct
SBA Small Business Resource Guide
www.sbaguides.com, click on “Arizona”
SBA Answer Desk
800-U-ASK-SBA (800-827-5722)
Of?ce of Advocacy
www.sba.gov/advocacy
Of?ce of Native American Affairs
www.sba.gov/about-of?ces-content/1/2960
Of?ce of Veterans Business Development
www.sba.gov/about-of?ces-content/1/2985
Of?ce of Women’s Business Ownership (OWBO)
www.sba.gov/content/about-owbo
SBA ARIZONA
DISTRICT OFFICES
www.sba.gov/az
2828 N. Central Avenue, Suite 800
Phoenix, AZ 85004-1093
602-745-7200
405 W. Congress Street, Suite 1807
Tucson, AZ 85701
520-620-7042
1201 E. Cooley Avenue, Suite E
Show Low, AZ 85901
928-532-0034
SBA offers resources and programs targeted for small
businesses to provide the advantage necessary to help
them effectively compete in the marketplace and
strengthen the overall U.S. economy.
STARTING YOUR BUSINESS
SBA representatives provide assistance to help you:
• Develop a business plan
• Make contacts
• Access resources
• Complete loan application(s)
Special-emphasis programs offered to assist:
• Native Americans
• Socially and economically disadvantaged citizens
• Veterans
• Women
FINANCING YOUR BUSINESS
Financing resources:
• Loan guarantees enable ?nancial institutions to
provide loans to small businesses that would not
otherwise qualify for ?nancing.
• Major ?xed-asset loans provide for the purchase of
land and buildings.
• Surety bond guarantees aid to small and minority
construction contractors.
• Equity investing matches venture capitalists with
small businesses.
• Export assistance to be part of the global economy.
GROWING YOUR BUSINESS
Consult with the experts to identify growth opportunities:
• Funding small business expansion with loan
guarantees
• Improving product diversi?cations
• Exploring export options
• Improving marketing and sales
• Making capital investments
• Increasing competitiveness
SBA WORKSHOPS
• SBA Loan Clinic
• Selling to the Federal Government
For schedules, visit the SBA website at www.sba.gov/az
or call 602-745-7200.
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ARIZONA SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER NETWORK (AZSBDC)
AZSBDC is Arizona’s largest and most accessible statewide source of assistance for small businesses at every stage of
development. Services include free, one-on-one business counseling, planning assistance, technology development
and identifying sources of capital are only some of the services that they provide. They also have special initiatives in
veteran assistance, clean technology and government contracting.
The AZSBDC Network’s service centers, satellites and/or meeting locations provide access to professional business
counselors, analysts and technology specialists. It’s partnership with the SBA and the Association of Small Business
Development Centers puts nationwide resources within your reach. For locations and contact information, visit the
AZSBDC website at www.azsbdc.net.
18 AZ EE
AZSBDC Centers
Satel l i te/Meeti ng Locati on
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LOCATIONS
1. AZSBDC Network
State Of?ce
Arizona - District Of?ce
2411 W. 14th Street
Room 114
Tempe, AZ 85281
480-731-8720
Administrative Services Only
2. Cochise College SBDC
901 N. Colombo
Room 717
Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
520-515-5478
2a. Cochise College/Satellite
4190 W. AZ Highway 80
Bldg 100, Room 106
Douglas, AZ 85607
520-515-5478
By Appointment Only
3. Coconino Community
College SBDC
3000 N. 4th Street
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
928-526-7653
3a. Coconino Community
College, Page Campus
475 S. Lake Powell Boulevard
Page, AZ 86040
928-645-6687
4. Gila Community
College SBDC
201 Mudsprings Road
Payson, AZ 85547-0359
928-468-8039
4a. Gila Pueblo Campus
8274 Six Shooter Canyon
Globe, AZ 85502
928-425-8481
4b. San Carlos Campus
Tonto and Mesa Drive
San Carlos, AZ 85550
877-224-7232
5. Eastern Arizona
College SBDC
615 N. Stadium Avenue
Thatcher, AZ 85552-0769
928-428-8590
6. Maricopa Community
Colleges SBDC
2400 N. Central Avenue
Suite 104
Phoenix, AZ 85004
480-784-0590
6a. Estrella Mountain Skill
Center/Satellite
Estrella Mountain Campus
3000 N. Dysart Road
Avondale, AZ 85392
480-784-0590
6b. City of Chandler/
Satellite
Innovations Incubator
145 S. 79th Avenue
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-784-0590
6c. Center for
Entrepreneurial
Innovation, GateWay
Community College/
Satellite
275 N. Gateway Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85034
602-286-8954
6d. Mesa Community
College/Satellite
165 Centennial Way
Room 209
Mesa, AZ 85201
480-784-0590
6e. Paradise Valley
Community College/
Satellite
18401 N. 32nd Street
Bldg J, Room 131
Phoenix, AZ 85032
480-784-0590
6f. Rio Salado Community
College/Satellite
Lifelong Learning Center
12535 Smokey Drive
Room 1037
Surprise, AZ 85378
480-784-0590
7. Mohave Community
College SBDC
1971 Jagerson Avenue
Kingman, AZ 86409
928-757-0894
8. Northland Pioneer
College SBDC
1001 Deuce of Clubs,
Rooms 107- 109
Show Low, AZ 85901
928-532-6170
9. Microbusiness
Advancement Center
SBDC
330 N. Commerce Park Loop
Suite 160
Tucson, AZ 85745
520-620-1241
10. Central Arizona
College SBDC
540 N. Camino Mercado
Casa Grande, AZ 85222
520-494-6610
10a. Central Arizona
College, San Tan Center
2474 E. Hunt Highway
Suite 100
San Tan Valley, AZ 85143-
5210
520-494-6727
10b. Superstition
Mountain Campus
273 Old West Highway
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
520-494-6610
11. Yavapai College SBDC
240 S. Montezuma Street
Suite 105
Prescott, AZ 86303
928-776-2008
11a. City of Cottonwood
Economic Development
Of?ce/Satellite
821 N. Main Street
Cottonwood, AZ 86324
928-776-2008
11b. Sedona Chamber of
Commerce/Satellite
45 Sunset Drive
Sedona, AZ 86336
928-776-2008
12. Arizona Western
College SBDC
1351 South Redondo
Center Drive, Suite 101
Yuma, AZ 85365
928-317-6151
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ARIZONA SCORE LOCATIONS
Greater Phoenix SCORE
Phoenix Of?ce
2828 N. Central Avenue, Suite 800, Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-745-7250
EVIT Mesa Of?ce
1601 W. Main Street, Mesa, AZ 85201
www.greaterphoenix.score.org
Serves Phoenix, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Buckeye,
Glendale, Avondale, El Mirage, Goodyear, Laveen,
Litch?eld Park, Peoria, Sun City, Sun City West,
Tolleson, Youngtown, Surprise, Payson, Mesa, Tempe,
Chandler, Gilbert, Apache Junction, Queen Creek and
vicinities.
Northern Arizona SCORE
1228 Willow Creek Road, Suite 2, Prescott, AZ 86301
928-778-7438
www.northernarizona.score.org
Serves Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley,
Cottonwood, Sedona, Flagstaff, Kingman, Lake
Havasu City and surrounding communities.
Southern Arizona SCORE
330 N. Commerce Park Loop Drive, Suite 160
Tucson, AZ 85745
520-762-9415
www.southernarizona.score.org
Serves Tucson, Green Valley, Sierra Vista, Eloy, and
vicinities.
S COR E A R I Z ONA – F OR T HE L I F E OF Y OU R B U S I NE S S
SCORE is a non-pro?t association dedicated to educating
entrepreneurs and helping small businesses start, grow
and succeed. It is a resource partner with the SBA that
has been mentoring small business owners for more than
40 years.
As an organization, SCORE is dedicated to the further
enhancement and development of the economic base of
the community and to the creation of jobs.
• SCORE mentors, comprised of active and retired
business men and women, provide clients with free and
con?dential business counseling. Counseling can be
conducted either at the client’s place of business, at the
SCORE of?ce, by telephone or via email.
• SCORE representatives from the local business
community conduct a variety of regularly scheduled,
low-cost educational programs that provide valuable
information and techniques necessary for establishing
and managing a successful business.
Visit the SCORE website at www.score.org.
Microbusiness Advancement Center (MAC)
330 N. Commerce Park Loop, Suite 160
Tucson, AZ 85745
520-620-1241http://mac-sa.org
The Microbusiness Advancement Center (MAC) is
a non-pro?t organization that helps individuals start,
fund and grow their businesses by providing quality
business education and access to capital. MAC drives
the development of small businesses in Southern Arizona
by providing clients with training programs, microloans
and other resources.
In addition, MAC serves as SBA’s Women’s Business
Center (WBC). The WBC program offers entrepreneurs,
especially women, comprehensive training and counseling
on a vast array of business-related topics to help them
start and grow local businesses. MAC also hosts the local
Small Business Development Center.
MAC receives partial funding from the SBA, the City of
Tucson, United Way, foundations, corporate and individual
donors. To learn more, attend one of their free weekly
orientation sessions. Orientations in English are offered
every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Orientations
in Spanish are held every Thursday at 5:00 p.m.
FEDERAL RESOURCE
USA.Gov
www.usa.gov/directory/federal/index.shtml
A-Z Index of U.S. Government Departments and Agencies
VETERAN SERVICES
Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services
www.azdvs.gov
SBA, Of?ce of Veterans Business Development
www.sba.gov/about-of?ces-content/1/2985
SBA, Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC)
www.sba.gov/content/veterans-business-outreach-centers
SCORE, Veteran Fast Launch Initiativehttp://vetsfastlaunch.org
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
www.vetbiz.gov
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AZ EE 21
MICROLENDERS PROVIDING TECHNICAL
SUPPORT
PPEP Microbusiness and
Housing Development Corporation, Inc.
806 E. 46th Street, Tucson, AZ 85713
520-889-4203; 800-293-2974
www.pmhdc.net/loans.html
Serves Cochise, Santa Cruz, Pinal, Yuma and rural
Maricopa counties and the Navajo Nation.
Prestamos CDFI Small Business Lending
(A Subsidiary of Chicanos Por La Causa, Inc.)
1122 E. Buckeye Road, Suite B-4, Phoenix, AZ 85034
602-258-9911
www.prestamosloanfund.org
Phoenix MBDA Business Center
255 E. Osborn Road, Suite 202, Phoenix, AZ 85012
602-248-0007; 800-428-7299http://phoenixmbdacenter.com
The Phoenix MBDA Business Center is federally funded
by the Minority Business Development Agency, U.S.
Department of Commerce and is locally operated by the
Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. The Center is
focused on securing large public and private contracts
and ?nancing transactions, stimulating job creation
and retention, and facilitating entry to global markets
for eligible minority-owned businesses. The Center
serves eligible MBEs with annual revenues of more than
$1,000,000, or participants in a high-growth industry (e.g.
green technology, clean energy, health care, infrastructure
and broadband technology, among others).
U.S. Commercial Service, Export Assistance Centers
2828 N. Central Avenue, Suite 800, Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-640-2513
1475 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 200
Scottsdale, AZ 85257
602-640-2513
33 N. Stone Avenue, Suite 830, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-670-5540http://export.gov/arizona
With three Export Assistance Centers in Arizona, the U.S.
Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce
is a federal government agency dedicated to helping
small and medium-sized Arizona companies develop
international markets. Whether you’re looking to make
your ?rst export sale or expand to additional international
markets, they offer the trade counseling, market
intelligence, business matchmaking, and commercial
diplomacy you need to connect with lucrative business
opportunities. In addition, they will help you to develop
trade ?nance and insurance strategies that align with your
particular business objectives and help you complete your
export transaction.
ARIZONA SERVICE PROVIDERS NETWORK
ACA Small Business Services (SBS) forges collaborations
with statewide organizations under the Arizona Service
Providers Network umbrella to increase the scope of
services, resources and expertise available in the
Arizona small business community.
Most Network members facilitate effective outreach
programs and services targeted for starting, operating
and growing a business. For a listing of members and
links to their websites, visit the ACA website at
www.azcommerce.com, under “About Us” select
“Events.”
The Northern Arizona Council of Government’s Business
Assistance Center (BAC), www.nacog.org, provides
support for new and expanding small businesses in
Yavapai County. They also assist businesses with labor
development options offered through NACOG-EWD.
Better Business Bureau (BBB)
4428 N. 12th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85014
602-264-1721; 877-291-6222
www.arizonabbb.org
Serving Central, Northern and Western Arizona
BBB of Southern Arizona
5151 E. Broadway Boulevard, Suite 100
Tucson, AZ 85711
520-888-5353
www.tucson.bbb.org
Serving Tucson and Southeastern Arizona
The Better Business Bureau’s services include reliability
reports on particular companies, mediation and arbitration
for business-oriented disputes, consumer “tips on”
brochures on many subjects, reports on national charities,
and news alerts on scams, frauds and schemes.
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T R I B A L R E S O U R C E S
CENTER FOR AMERICAN INDIAN
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (CAIED)
928-523-7320http://franke.nau.edu/caied
Located at the W. A. Franke College of Business,
Northern Arizona University, CAIED is a resource center
for Arizona’s twenty-two tribal nations and communities.
Services include technical assistance, business consulting
and training, and educational workshops. CAIED provides
a website with a database library offering current
information on Arizona tribes, Indian economic
development, and general development issues.
NATIVE NATIONS INSTITUTE (NNI)
520-626-0664
www.nni.arizona.edu
NNI at the University of Arizona provides Native
nations with comprehensive, professional training and
development programs speci?cally designed to meet the
needs of indigenous leadership and management.
NATIVE PEOPLES
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE OFFICE
520-626-9181
www.nptao.arizona.edu
The University of Arizona Native Peoples Technical
Assistance Of?ce, in partnership with Native communities
throughout Arizona, provides a comprehensive program
of university-based technical assistance, technology
transfer and research, and educational opportunities for
Native peoples across Arizona and beyond.
TRIBAL RESOURCES
Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED)
Tribal Economic Development Committee
www.aaed.com, under “About AAED” select
“Committees” for “Tribal Economic Development”
Arizona Commission of Indian Affairs
www.azcia.gov
Arizona Tribal Library Resources
www.azlibrary.gov/extension/tribal.aspx
Governor’s Of?ce of Equal Opportunity
www.azgovernor.gov/eop
National Center for American Indian Enterprise
Development (NCAIED)
www.ncaied.org
National Center for Teaming Alliances (NCTA)
www.ncaied.org/ncta/about-ncta
Nineteen Tribal Nations Workforce Investment
Area/Boardhttps://ina.workforce3one.org
State of Arizona – Tribal Liaisonhttp://azcia.gov/tribal_liaison_group.asp
UIDA Business Services/AIPTAC
www.ncaied.org/mcs/uida-consulting-group
U.S. Department of the Interior
Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA)
www.bia.gov
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
Of?ce of Native American Affairs
www.sba.gov/about-of?ces-content/1/2960
The Inter Tribal Council of Arizona is a non-pro?t corporation established by Tribal Governments to provide member
tribes a uni?ed voice to promote sovereignty. For a listing of member tribes and their contact information, please visit
their website athttp://itcaonline.com, select “member tribes.
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E N T R E P R E N E U R S H I P P R O G R A M S
A N D B U S I N E S S I N C U B A T O R S
UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA,
Eller College of Management,
McGuire Center for Entrepreneurship
520-621-2576
www.entrepreneurship.eller.arizona.edu
The McGuire Center for Entrepreneurship at University
of Arizona, Eller College of Management, is committed
to enabling and advancing entrepreneurial goals of all
university populations. The Center prepares business
students to develop their own ventures or bring innovation
to the marketplace in a corporate environment. Through
it’s host of partnerships, the Center is committed to
entrepreneurship, business development and technology
transfer.
BUSINESS INCUBATORS
Business incubators are designed to provide a structured
program to developing technology companies which
includes access to ?rst-class facilities, coaching,
networking and other services. A list of Arizona’s
incubators, accelerators, and shared work space facilities
can be found at www.azcommerce.com.
ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY,
W. P. Carey School of Business
The Spirit of Enterprise Center
480-965-0474
www.spiritofenterprise.org
The Spirit of Enterprise Center – Where Campus Meets
Community™ – is part of the W. P. Carey School of Business
on the Tempe campus of Arizona State University. The
center offers innovative programs that bene?t students
and the business community. The center is home to the
prestigious Spirit of Enterprise Awards, presented each
year to outstanding entrepreneurial companies.
NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY,
The W. A. Franke College of Business
928-523-3657
www.franke.nau.edu
The W. A. Franke College of Business at Northern Arizona
University provides high-quality business-related training,
education, consulting and information resources to
businesses, non-pro?t organizations, tribes and
government agencies throughout Arizona’s rural and
northern communities.
UNIVERSITY INCUBATORS
ASU Venture Catalyst
480-884-1860 asuventurecatalyst.org
Northern Arizona Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology (NACET)
928-213-9234 www.nacet.org
Arizona Center for Innovation (AZCI)
520-382-3260 www.azinnovation.com
F I NA NCI NG Y OU R B U S I NE S S
25 • Financing Options
» SBA’s Loan Guaranty Programs 26
» Commercial Loans 29
» SBA Micro Lenders 29
30 • Funding Sources
» Arizona’s Incentives, Programs, and Grants 31
» Funding for Innovation and Technology Companies 32
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to the
fact that much of the information is created by external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
3
Fi nanci al Opt i ons and Fundi ng Sour ces
24 AZ EE
The ACA’s Access to Capital Academy presented by the Phoenix Community & Economic Development and Investment Corporation (PCDIC) –
helps entrepreneurs learn how to approach potential lenders with confdence and an increased chance at securing loans.
AZ EE 25
F I N A N C I N G O P T I O N S
There are several sources to consider when looking for
?nancing. It is important to explore all of your options
before making a decision.
The primary source of capital for most new businesses
come from personal savings and other forms of personal
resources such as friends and family, when starting out.
While credit cards often are used to ?nance business
needs, there may be better options available, even for
very small loans. Often, money is loaned interest-free or
at a low rate which can be bene?cial.
The most common source of funding, banks, and credit
unions will provide a loan if you can show a sound business
proposal.
Generally, there are no grants to individuals to start or
expand a small business.
The best source for federal grant programs is
www.grants.gov. You can sign up for automatic updates,
and the site also includes useful information regarding
the federal grants submission process.
BORROWI NG MONEY
Lenders are not in the business of taking risks.
Consequently, they have conservative and basic guidelines
for ?nancing.
A common loan criteria is known as the Five C’s: Capacity,
Collateral, Credit, Character and Conditions:
Capacity – the customer’s ability to repay the loan
based on the business’ cash ?ow. Capacity should be
demonstrated on a historical (?nancial statements,
three years of business tax returns, etc.) and
prospective (projections) basis.
Collateral – property pledged by a borrower to protect
the interest of the lender. By putting up collateral, you
show that you are committed to the success of your
business.
A ?nancial institution avoids making loans without
collateral. With an SBA loan, ?nancial institution may
relax some portion of its lending criteria.
Credit – you have paid your debts more or less on time,
no history of bankruptcy or creditor lawsuits, and have
proven that you can use credit effectively. Lenders
normally investigate both the company’s and the
owner’s past credit history.
Character – the most subjective ingredient within the
formula. It encompasses the lender’s perceptions and
analysis of the borrower’s reputation and integrity,
background and experience, ?nancial sophistication,
involvement and persistence.
Conditions – the terms of loan, including loan amount,
interest rate and credit policies established by the
?nancial institution.
APPLYI NG FOR LOANS
Businesses seeking ?nancing will need:
• A completed loan application
• Three years of ?scal year-end business ?nancial
statements, including income statements and balance
sheets
• Current, year-to-date business ?nancial statements >
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AP P L Y I NG F OR L OANS ( c o n t i n u e d )
• Current personal ?nancial statements from anyone
owning 20 percent or more of the business
• Two years of personal income veri?cation
• Management resumes
• A business debt schedule
LOAN PROPOSAL
To be successful obtaining a loan, you must be prepared
and organized. Know exactly how much money you need,
why you need it, and how you will pay it back. You must be
able to convince your lender that you are a good credit
risk.
Review the Business Planning section in Chapter 1
– the ?nancial worksheets will help you prepare for
your loan proposal.
Be prepared to fully discuss the
• Size of Loan – Be prepared to clearly identify the
total funds needed. Be speci?c.
• Owner Equity – In most cases, the owner(s) will be
expected to provide up to 50-percent of the funds
required. This assures the lender that the business
owners have a signi?cant personal investment in the
project.
• How Funds Are to Be Used – Be prepared to provide
a detailed outline of the use of loan funds. Most loans
are for one of the followings reasons: (a) to purchase
new equipment; (b) to pay off existing debts; or (c) to
expand the business.
• Why Your Company is a Good Credit Risk – Brie?y
explain why your company has been, and will continue
to be a good credit risk, and how this loan will help.
• Personal Credit Record – The personal credit record
of each owner or of?cer will be reviewed by the
lender. Be prepared to discuss ?nancial records of
your business and all owners or of?cers.
• Payback Plan – Clearly demonstrate how your
company will be able to repay the loan. Information
must include cash-?ow projections. Your detailed
business plan will provide valuable information for
your lender.
• Alternative Payback Plan – The alternative payback
plan clearly shows the lenders how the loan will be
paid if your business fails.
See Chapter 2, Business Assistance and Counseling,
for organizations that provide technical support in
developing business plans.
Why a loan is declined? There are many reasons why
a lender will decline a business loan request. They may
range from a poorly conceived business idea to having
little or no collateral. Ask the lender why your loan was
declined – Remember, if it’s “no” today, learn how to
make it “yes” tomorrow!
SBA’S LOAN GUARANTY PROGRAMS
The SBA offers a wide variety of loan programs. See the
next page for it’s loan guaranty programs.
26 AZ EE
AZ EE 27
U. S . S MAL L B US I NE S S ADMI NI S T R AT I ON L OAN P R OGR AMS
Information accurate as of 2/23/2012 • All SBA programs and services are provided on a nondiscriminatory basis.
7( a) LOAN PROGRAM
Pr ogr am
Maxi mum
Amount
Us e of Pr oc eeds Mat ur i t y
Maxi mum
I nt er es t Rat e
St r uc t ur e Who Qual i f i es Benef i t t o Bor r ower s
Standard 7(a):
Applicant applies
for business loan
to lender; Lender
applies to SBA for
guaranty of their
proposed loan if
they determine it
is necessary. Loan
from lender, not
SBA.
$5 million
to any
one
business,
including
af?liates.
Expansion/renovation;
new construction,
purchase land or
buildings; purchase
equipment, ?xtures,
lease-hold
improvements; working
capital; inventory,
business acquisition,
startups and re?nancing
under certain conditions
(discuss with lender).
Depends on use
of proceeds
and ability to
repay. Generally
working capital
and machinery &
equipment loans
have 5-10 years;
real estate is up
to 25 years. Term
negotiated with
lender.
SBA sets a
maximum rate
for both
variable
and ?xed-rates
loans (discuss
with lender or
local SBA
District Of?ce
for current
information).
Term loan with one
payment of
principal and
interest (P&I)
each month.
Interest variable
or ?xed as
negotiated with
lender. Cannot be
revolving. SBA
charges a Guaranty
Fee.**
Must be for-pro?t and
meet SBA size
standards; show good
character, credit,
management, and
ability to repay; must
be an eligible type of
business, use
proceeds for eligible
purpose, and
demonstrate that
credit is not otherwise
available.
Business able to obtain
?nancing which
otherwise would not
be provided due to
term, collateral, equity,
and/or time in
business. Fixed
maturity; No balloons;
No prepayment
penalty if maturity
under 15 years.
Establish or re-af?rm
businessrelationship
with a lender.
International
Trade: Long term
?nancing to help
businesses
engaged in
exporting or
adversely
impacted by
imports.
Same as
Standard
7(a).
Acquire, renovate,
modernize facilities or
equipment used in
making products or
services to be exported,
plus permanent working
capital and re?nance
debt not structured
with reasonable terms.
Same as
Standard 7(a).
Same as
Standard 7(a).
Same as Standard
7(a). Maximum
SBA guaranty
amount for
working capital is
$4 million.
Same as Standard
7(a) plus businesses
must be engaged or
preparing to engage
in international trade
or adversely affected
by competition from
imports.
Same as Standard
7(a) plus long-term
?nancing for ?xed
assets used to produce
products or services
for export.
Export Working
Capital Program:
Single transaction
or Revolving
Working Capital
lines of credit for
exporters.
Same as
Standard
7(a).
Short-term, working
capital for exporters.
Can be single
transaction or revolving.
Standby Letters of
Credit for export
purposes.
Generally one
year, but can be
up to 3 years to
match a single
transaction cycle.
Established by
lender. No SBA
established
maximums.
Short term
revolving
line of credit
based on
borrowing base or
export purchase
orders. Monthly
interest payments;
principal
payments based
on collection of
foreign receivables.
Same as Standard 7(a)
plus must have been in
business for at
least one year and
preparing to engage
in or increase
international trade.
Same as Standard 7(a)
plus provides working
capital to American
Exporters to perform
on export transactions
and/or ?nance export
receivables. Ability
to Financing Standby
Letters of Credit for
export purposes.
CAPLines: Four
different Revolving
Lines of Credit,
a/k/a Seasonal,
Contract Builders,
Working Capital.
Same as
Standard
7(a).
Finances: seasonal
working capital needs,
direct cost to perform
assignable contracts,
construction costs of
structure for resale,
or advances against
existing inventory and
receivables.
Up to 10 years. Same as
Standard 7(a).
Revolving line of
credit with
monthly interest
and principal
payments based
on when the
business receives
the cash for doing
the activity the
loan proceeds
?nanced.
Same as Standard 7(a)
plus a business that
needs the specialized
proceeds this program
offers.
Same as Standard 7(a)
plus provides revolving
working capital not
otherwise available
to perform on an
assignable contract, to
cover seasonal needs,
to build or renovate
personal or
commercial space, and
to obtain funds against
existing current assets.
Also structured to
meet business needs.
SBAExpress:
Lender approves
the loan.
$350,000. Same as a Standard
7(a) or may be used
for a revolving working
capital line of credit.
Same as
Standard
7(a) for term
loans. Revolving
lines of credit up
to 7 years.
Loans $50,000
or less:
Prime + 6.5%.
Loans over
$50,000:
Prime + 4.5%.
Same as Standard
7(a) except lender
has more leeway
to structure
repayment under
their own rules.
Same as Standard
7(a).
Same as Standard 7(a)
plus streamlined
process; Easy-to-use
line of credit and
allows for a revolving
feature which
Standard 7(a) does
not.
Small Loan
Advantage:
lower-dollar loans
to under-served
areas.
$250,000. Same as Standard 7(a). Same as
Standard 7(a).
Loans up to
$150,000: 85%
Loans above
$150,000: 75%
Same as Standard
7(a).
Underserved markets. Stream-lined
application.
Rural Loan
Advantage: Rural-
based or small
community lender.
$350,000. Same as Standard 7(a). Same as
Standard 7(a).
Loans up to
$150,000: 85%
Loans above
$150,000: 75%
Same as Standard
7(a).
Rural and small
community markets
impacted by
population loss, high
unemployment.
Stream-lined
application.
** T he SBA c har ges t he l ender a guar ant y f ee bas ed on t he l oan’s mat ur i t y and t he dol l ar amount whi c h i s i ni t i al l y guar ant eed.
T he l ender c an pas s t hi s expens e t o t he bor r ower and l oan pr oc eeds c an be us ed t o r ei mbur s e t he l ender.
T he 7( a) Guar ant y Fee Ref er enc e Char t ( on next page) expl ai ns t he Agenc y ’s guar ant y f ee c har ges .
c ont i nued on next page >
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U. S . S MAL L B US I NE S S ADMI NI S T R AT I ON L OAN P R OGR AMS
Information accurate as of 2/23/2012 • All SBA programs and services are provided on a nondiscriminatory basis.
7( a) LOAN PROGRAM, CONT I NUED
Pr ogr am
Maxi mum
Amount
Us e of Pr oc eeds Mat ur i t y
Maxi mum
I nt er es t Rat e
St r uc t ur e Who Qual i f i es Benef i t t o Bor r ower s
Export Express:
Lender approves
the loan.
$500,000. Same as SBA Express
plus can be used
for Standby Letters
of Credit for export
purposes. Debt
re?nance is not
allowed.
Same as
SBA Express.
Same as
SBA Express.
Same as
SBA Express.
Same as SBA
Express plus loan
proceeds must be
used to support
export development
activity.
Same as SBA Express
plus provides lenders
with a higher
percentage guaranty
which can encourage
them to make more
loans to ?nance export-
development activities
of small businesses.
Standby Letters of
Credit are also
authorized.
Patriot Express:
Lender approves
the loan.
$500,000. Same as
Standard 7(a).
Same as
Standard 7(a).
Same as
Standard 7(a).
Same as
SBA Express.
Same as Standard
7(a) plus must be
owned and controlled
by one or more of
the following groups
equaling at least
51% total ownership:
veteran, active-duty
military, reservist
or National Guard
member or spouse of
any of these groups,
or widowed spouse
of service member
or veteran who died
during service or of
service-connected
disability.
Same as SBA Express
plus provides lenders
with a higher
percentage of
guaranty which can
encourage them to
make more loans to
quali?ed businesses.
Community
Advantage:
Alternative
Lenders assisting
businesses
located in areas
with high needs.
$250,000. Same as Standard 7(a)
except cannot be used
to re?nance loans made
by or guaranteed by the
Dept. of Agriculture or
loans by SBA Micro-
Lenders using their SBA
intermediary loan.
Same as
Standard 7(a).
Same as
Standard 7(a)
except
allowable
“Spread” is +
4% over the
base rate.
Allows mission-
oriented lenders
focused on
economic
development
in underserved
markets to apply
for 7(a) guaranty
on loan they
propose to make
to an eligible small
business.
Loan eligibility
requirements are
same as for Standard
7(a) loans, but the
business should
be located in an
underserved market .
Borrowers in
underserved markets
get more choices on
the types of lenders
who can provide them
?nancing if their
?nancing needs an
SBA guaranty and the
technical assistance
needs of the applicant
are assessed by the
lender.
NON 7( a) LOANS
504 Loans:
Fixed Asset
Project Financing
provided from
three sources.
SBA
portion
up to $5.0
million.
For the acquisition of
long-term ?xed-assets,
re?nancing long-term
?xed-asset debt under
certain conditions, and
working capital on a
limited basis.
Either 10 or 20
year term on
the SBA/CDC
portion.
Check with
local SBA
District Of?ce
for current
information.
Financing from
1. The CDC
Certi?ed
Development
Company.
2. Third Party
Lenders.
3. Applicant.
For-pro?t businesses
that do not exceed
$15.0 million in
tangible net worth
and do not have an
average net income
over $5 million for the
past 2 years.
Fees under 3 percent;
long-term ?xed rate;
low down payment;
full amortization; no
balloons.
Micro-Loans $50,000
total to
one small
business
borrower.
Furniture, ?xtures,
supplies, inventory,
equipment, and
working capital.
Shortest term
possible, not to
exceed 6 years.
Check with
local SBA
District Of?ce
for locations of
locally available
intermediary
lenders and
then check with
them.
Loans through
non-pro?t lending
organizations;
technical
assistance also
provided.
Same as 7(a) plus
loans can be made to
non-pro?t day care
businesses.
Direct loans from
non-pro?t
intermediary
lenders; Fixed-rate
?nancing; Very
small loan amounts;
Technical assistance
available.
7(a) GUARANTY
FEE REFERENCE
CHART
Gross Size of Loan Fees Notes
Loans of $150,000 or less (See Note 1)....2% of guaranteed portion, Lender is authorized to retain....Maturities that exceed 12 months
$150,001 to $700,000.......................................3% of guaranteed portion....................................................................Maturities that exceed 12 months
$700,001 to $5,000,000 (See Note 2)........3.5% of guaranteed portion up to $1,000,000 PLUS...............Maturities that exceed 12 months
3.75% of the guaranteed portion over $1,000,000
Short Term Loans – up to $5 million............0.25% of the guaranteed portion......................................................Maturities of 12 months or less
NOT E 1: T he guar ant y f ee on a $100, 000 l oan wi t h an 85% guar ant y woul d be 2% of $85, 000 or $1, 700, of whi c h t he l ender woul d r et ai n $425.
NOT E 2: T he guar ant y f ee on a $2, 000, 000 l oan wi t h a 75% guar ant y ( $1. 5 mi l l i on guar ant eed por t i on) woul d be, 3. 5% of $1, 000, 000 ( $35, 000) PL US 3. 75% of
$500, 000 ( $18, 750) , f or a t ot al of $53, 750.
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AZ EE 29
COMME R CI A L L OA NS
In Arizona, many businesses seek credit ?nancing through
a commercial bank. Commercial banks provide the
business community with a variety of ?nancing options
such as SBA guaranteed loans, commercial installment
loans, and letters of credit.
A loan of?cer from your bank can discuss which type of
loan will best meet your needs, outline the application
and procedures.
A variety of loan arrangements are available through
?nance companies, insurance companies and mortgage
bankers. Review lender ratings on the SBA website at
www.sba.gov/az, under “What’s New.”
SBA RESOURCES
Free clinics on how to prepare a SBA loan application
and approach a lender to improve chances for
approval. For schedules, visit the SBA website at www.
sba.gov/az or call 602-745-7200.
Finance Primer: A Guide to SBA’s Loan Guaranty
Programshttp://app1.sba.gov/training/sbafp.
The Small Business Resource magazine provides
information on ?nancing options to start or grow a
business and can be viewed online at www.sbaguides.com.
S B A MI CR O L E ND E R S :
F I NA NCI A L S E R V I CE S WI T H
T E CHNI CA L A S S I S TA NCE
Microloan programs provide small loans ranging from less
than $500 up to $50,000. As part of this program, the SBA
makes funds available to non-pro?t intermediaries that,
in turn, make the small loans directly to entrepreneurs.
Proceeds may be used for typical business purposes such as
working capital, purchase of furniture, ?xtures, machinery,
supplies, equipment and/or inventory. Microloans may not
be used for the purchase of real estate. Interest rates are
negotiated between the borrower and the intermediary.
PPEP Microbusiness & Housing Development Corp
(PMHDC)
802 E. 46th Street, Tucson, AZ 85713
520-889-4203; 800-293-2974
www.pmhdc.net/loans.html
Area Coverage: Cochise, Pima, Pinal, Santa Cruz, Yuma,
rural Maricopa counties and the Navajo Nation
Prestamos CDFI, LLC,
a subsidiary of Chicanos Por La Causa Inc. (CPLC)
1122 E. Buckeye Road, Suite B-4, Phoenix, AZ 85034
602-258-9911
www.prestamosloanfund.org
Area Coverage: All of Arizona
SBA LENDERS LOCATED IN ARIZONA
There are many conventional banks, credit
unions, and small business lending companies
that specialize in business loans. Many of
these lenders are authorized to handle SBA
guaranteed loans and other small business
?nancial programs. For a listing, www.sba.gov/az,
select “Arizona SBA Lender List.”
MICRO LENDERS
ACCION New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado
520-682-3648 www.accionnm.org
Area Coverage: Phoenix and Tucson
Neighborhood Economic Development Corporation
(NEDCO)
480-258-6927 www.nedco-mesa.org
Area Coverage: Phoenix and Phoenix-East Valley
The USDA Rural Development delivers a
variety of assistance to rural businesses and
communities. Several of the programs assist
rural small businesses (including farmers and
ranchers) directly. To view Arizona’s Business and
Cooperative Programs, visit USDA’s website at
www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/busp/bpdir.htm.
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F U N D I N G S O U R C E S
Many entrepreneurs believe that having an idea, patent,
or new product is all that is necessary to start and ?nance
a new venture. However, there are important factors to
consider before approaching traditional and alternative
capital funding resources.
Often, entrepreneurs are disappointed to learn that
professional investors don’t invest money in ideas or new
products. Sometimes ?nancing a new venture requires
creativity and resourcefulness. Some options include:
• Personal Resources – including personal funds,
credit cards, money from family and friends, and
home equity loans
• Equity Barter – trading equity in the company
in exchange for services, product development,
suppliers, goods, and management assistance prior
to getting funded
• Suppliers – negotiating terms or signing promissory
notes in lieu of cash payments
• Leasing – acquiring equipment through leasing
versus using a bank loan
• Licensing – letting another company incur the cost
of manufacturing, marketing and distribution in
exchange for the payment of royalties
• Strategic Partners – convincing another company to
pay the bills (maybe the company’s ?rst customer or
a company that needs the product internally or for
their own market)
• Special Funds – chambers of commerce and some
government and private agencies may operate
programs that help businesses raise capital for
expansion or relocation, especially if the project will
bene?t the immediate community or boost economic
development
• Traditional Lenders – commercial banks, including
SBA lenders, are not in the venture capital business
and usually stay away from making loans to startups,
unless there are substantial business and personal
assets (real estate, equipment, marketable securities
and home equity) that they can take as collateral
(in addition to demanding good credit and other
safeguards)
• Non-Traditional Lenders – other types of lenders
that will work with a new company and take more
risk than banks, while charging higher interest rates
(taking accounts receivables, customer contracts and
purchase orders as collateral)
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FUNDING SOURCES
Arizona Angels Investor Network
602-616-7833
www.arizonaangels.com
Arizona MultiBank Community Development
Corporation
602-643-0030
www.multibank.org
Arizona Technology Investor Forum (ATIF)
480-965-6049http://atif.asu.edu
Business Development Finance Corporation
Phoenix: 602-381-6292; 800-264-3377
Tucson: 520-623-3377; 866-630-1974
www.bdfc.com
City of Phoenix
Community and Economic Development Department
602-262-5040
www.phoenix.gov/econdev
Community Investment Corporation
520-529-1766
www.communityinvestmentcorporation.org
Desert Angels
520-490-8137
www.desertangels.org
Export-Import Bank of the United States
800-565-3946
www.exim.gov
Invest Southwest
480-788-5038
www.investsouthwest.org
Southwest Business Financing Corporation
Phoenix: 602-495-6495
Tucson: 520-297-3232
www.swbfc.com
SMALL BUSINESS CAPITAL INVESTMENT
TAX CREDIT (ANGEL INVESTMENT)
Arizona’s Small Business Capital Investment Tax Credit
makes $20 million available in tax credits to “investors”
that make an investment in a company certi?ed by the
Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA). Angel investors are
traditionally high net-worth individuals that are investing
up to $250,000 into companies with products and ideas
that may resonate at a personal level.
This Arizona tax credit will assist early stage small
businesses in attracting the much-needed capital to
expand operations and bring new ideas, products and
services to market. An investor may receive an Arizona
income tax credit up to 30% or 35% of the investment
amount, depending on the type or location of the
company. For more information, visit the ACA website at
www.azcommerce.com select “Incentives.”
VENTURE CAPITAL
Venture capital ?rms provide equity ?nancing to small
businesses. This equity position usually ranges from 10-
percent to 40-percent. Most venture capitalists indicate
they are interested in proposals requiring an investment
in the area of $250,000 to $1.5 million.
Venture capital ?nancing is not commonly available for
startup businesses. Inquiries should be made directly to
the venture capital ?rms. For the Arizona list of licensed
Small Business Investment Companies (SBIC), visit the
SBA website athttp://archive.sba.gov/aboutsba/
sbaprograms/inv/INV_DIRECTORY_SBIC.html select
“Small Business Investment Companies In Arizona.”
ARIZONA’S INCENTIVES,
PROGRAMS, AND GRANTS
Arizona is committed to helping businesses succeed. The
state’s incentives, programs and grants that are administered
by the Arizona Commerce Authority are listed on the
following page. For more details, visit the ACA website at
www.azcommerce.com select “Incentives.”
In addition to the ACA’s website, it’s weekly
innovation newsletter provides information as
new programs and ?nancial resources become
available. To receive this weekly newsletter, sign up
on www.azcommerce.com.
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ACA’S INCENTIVE TOOL BOX
Arizona Competes Fund
• Cash assistance for business attraction projects that stimulate and promote industries
that provide stable, high-wage jobs
• Assistance will be performance-based and must result in a net bene?t to the state
Arizona FAST Grant
• Cash assistance to initiate the technology commercialization process
• Grant up to $7,500 to provide select professional consulting services
Arizona Innovation
Accelerator Fund
Program
• Loan participation program to spur business expansion and job creation
• Loans from $50,000 - $2 million for up to 49.9% of a ?nancing package
• Principle and interest payments may be deferred for up to 24 months
Arizona Innovation
Challenge
• Cash assistance for promising technology ventures
• Grants range from $100,000 - $250,000
Arizona STEP Grant
• Cash assistance to help develop international export opportunities
• Reimbursable grants up to $10,000
Commercial & Industrial
Solar Energy Program
Private Activity Bonds
• Tax credit equal to 10% of the installed cost of the solar energy device
- Up to $25,000 per location per year
- Not to exceed $50,000 per taxpayer per year
Healthy Forest Tax
Incentives
• Use fuel tax rate of 9¢ per gallon
• Up to $3,000 tax credit for each net new job created
• Transaction Privilege Tax Exemption on qualifying equipment purchase or lease
contracts
• Transaction Privilege Tax Exemption on construction contracts
• Use Tax Exemption on qualifying equipment purchased out-of-state
• Property tax reductions of up to 75% for up to ?ve years
• Workforce training tax credit up to $9,000 for each net new job created
Job Training Program
• Cash assistance up to $1.5M per business
- New jobs up to 75% of eligible training expenses can be reimbursed
- Incumbent jobs up to 50% of eligible training expenses can be reimbursed
Military Reuse Zones
• Tax credits of up to $10,000 for each new employee
• Property tax reductions of up to 75% for up to ?ve years
• Transaction Privilege Tax Exemption on certain types of construction
Private Activity Bonds
• Alternative ?nancing mechanism
• Interest on bonds is exempt from federal income tax for most bondholders
Quali?ed Energy
Conservation Bonds
• Alternative ?nancing mechanism
• Quali?ed tax credit bond
• Credit rate is 70% of the credit rate that would allow the bond to sell at par
Quality Jobs Program • Tax credit up to $9,000 per new net quali?ed employee over a 3 year period
Quali?ed Facilities Tax
Credit
• Refundable tax credit up to 10% of the company’s investment or $20,000 per new job,
whichever is less
Renewable Energy Tax
Incentives
• Refundable tax credit up to 10% of the company’s investment
• Property tax reductions of up to 75% for up to ?fteen years
Research & Development
Program
• Tax credit up to
- 24% of increased R&D expenses
- $600,000 plus 15% on the expenses in excess of $2.5 million
- 34% of expenses if made in conjunction with an AZ public university
• Up to 75% of the excess tax credit can be refunded to small businesses
Small Business Capital
Investment Tax Credit
(Angel Investment)
• Tax credit up to 35% of investment amount over 3 years
• Elimination of capital gains tax on income derived from investment in certi?ed
companies
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FUNDING FOR INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES
AZ FAST GRANT PROGRAM
The Arizona Commerce Authority launched the AZ Fast
Grant Program in December 2011. This competitive grant
program provides seed money to technology-based
companies to help initiate the commercialization process.
Companies with fewer than 30 employees and revenues
less than $2 million may qualify to receive up to $7,500
for professional consulting services to help bring their
product to the next stage of completion.
This grant program will be offered periodically
throughout the year. A full description of the
requirements and grant application is online at
www.azcommerce.com/az-fast-grant.
SBIR/STTR PROPOSAL TRAINING PROGRAM
The P
III
Playbook is an Arizona Commerce Authority
structured program of training and technical assistance
enabling high-growth potential small technology ?rms to
compete more effectively for federal SBIR/STTR Phase I
and II awards and ultimately commercialize their
innovations in Phase III. For more details and application, visit
www.azcommerce.com/sbirsttr-proposal-training-program.
P
III
Playbook is partially funded by the SBA. SBA’s
funding is not an endorsement of any products, opinions
or services. All SBA funded programs are extended to
the public on a nondiscriminatory basis.
ARIZONA STATE TRADE AND EXPORT
PROMOTION (STEP) PROGRAM
The STEP program will assist Arizona small
businesses enter export markets for the ?rst time
or to expand into new markets. For more details,
see Chapter 7 and visit the ACA website at
www.azcommerce.com/az-step-grant.
STEP is partially funded by the SBA. SBA’s funding
is not an endorsement of any products, opinions or
services. All SBA funded programs are extended to
the public on a nondiscriminatory basis.
ARIZONA INNOVATION CHALLENGE
The Arizona Innovation Challenge advances innovation
and technology commercialization opportunities
in Arizona by supporting early stage ventures in
Arizona’s targeted industries (renewable energy
and sustainability, bio and life sciences, electronics,
information technologies, aerospace and defense
and advanced manufacturing). Companies receiving
awards will be required to commercialize their
technology and generate revenue within one
year. For more information, visit the website at
www.azinnovationchallenge.com.
To learn more about both the Small Business
Innovation Research (SBIR) and the Small Business
Technology Transfer (STTR) funding programs, visit the
SBA website at www.sba.gov/about-sba-services/7050.
ARIZONA INNOVATION ACCELERATOR FUND
In 2011, the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA)
was awarded $18.2 million from the U.S. Department
of Treasury’s Small Business Credit Initiative for the
Arizona Innovation Accelerator Fund program. This
loan participation program helps spur ?nancing to small
businesses and manufacturers, in collaboration with
private ?nance partners, to foster business expansion
and job creation in the state.
Financing packages may range from $50,000 to $2
million. Loan proceeds are to be used for working capital,
inventory, equipment purchase, and real property
improvements.
The ACA will target industries including renewable
energy and sustainability, bio and life sciences,
electronics, information technology, aerospace and
defense, and advanced manufacturing. ACA’s website,http://www.azcommerce.com/arizona-innovation-accelerator-fund,
provides more detailed information and an application
form for this program.
F I L I N G A N D R E G I S T E R I N G
Y O U R B U S I N E S S
35 • Business Structures and Registration
» Trade Name Selection and Registration 36
» Obtaining an Employer Identi?cation Number (EIN) 39
» Comparison Chart of Business Structures 40
40 • Business Considerations
» Business Locations 40
» Environmental Compliances 41
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to the
fact that much of the information is created by external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
4
Busi ness St r uct ur es and Regi st r at i on
34 AZ EE
As a sole proprietor or partnership, you can register your business name with the Secretary of State.
The Secretary of State offces are open Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., excluding state holidays.
When organizing a new business, one of the ?rst and most important decisions is identifying the structure of the
business.
B U S I NE S S S T R U CT U R E S A ND R E GI S T R AT I ON
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In Arizona, several business structures exist:
• Sole Proprietorship
• General Partnership
• Limited Partnership (LP)
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
• Limited Liability Limited Partnership (LLLP)
• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• Corporation
• S Corporation
• Non-Pro?t Corporation
See page 40 to review Comparison Grid of Business Structures.
No one choice suits every business. You have to pick
the structure that best meets your needs. Also, your
initial choice of a business structure may change. You
may start out as a sole proprietorship or partnership
and later, if your business grows or the risk of
personal liability increases, convert your business to
an LLC or a corporation. If you are uncertain which
business structure is right for you, you may want
to discuss your options with an accountant and/or
attorney prior to starting your business.
The following resources provide referrals/listing of,
and/or verify, licensed professionals:
Accountant:
Arizona Society of Certi?ed Public Accountants
(ASCPA)
602-252-4144; 888-237-0700
www.ascpa.com
Attorney:
State Bar of Arizona
602-252-4804; 520-623-9944; 866-482-9227
www.azbar.org
SOLE PROPRIETORSHIP
A sole proprietorship is the simplest and most common
form of business organization. It is de?ned as a business
that is owned by one individual. The creation of a business
as a sole proprietorship requires no formal Arizona ?ling.
Pro?ts and losses are reported on a separate schedule
within your personal tax return.
Advantages:
• A sole proprietor has complete control and decision-
making power over the business.
• There is usually very little reporting required with the
sole proprietorship.
• Sale or transfer can take place at the discretion of the
sole proprietor.
Disadvantages:
• All responsibilities and business decisions fall on the
shoulders of the sole proprietor.
• It is relatively dif?cul to obtain long-term ?nancing.
Investors generally do not invest in sole proprietorships.
• The sole proprietor of the business may be held
personally liable for the debts and obligations of the
business.
36 AZ EE
GENERAL PARTNERSHIP
A general partnership is an association of two or more
persons joined together to carry on trade or business for
pro?t. Each partner may contribute skills, money and/or
time, and each shares in the company’s pro?ts and losses.
Earnings are reported at the end of the year with personal
tax returns.
The partnership’s existence is usually formalized
through preparation of a written agreement. In general,
agreements outline each partner’s share of income, gain,
loss, deductions, credits and methods to dissolve the
partnership under various situations. It is not required to
?le your agreement with the state.
Advantages:
• Creating a general partnership is simpler, cheaper,
and requires less paperwork than forming a
corporation.
• Partnerships do not pay income tax. Instead, all
pro?ts and losses are passed through to the individual
partners.
• Most partnerships allow any partner to make
decisions on behalf of the company.
Disadvantages:
• All partners are personally liable for business debts
and liabilities.
• Having all partners equal in power and responsibility
may create challenges.
• The buying out of a partner may be dif?cult unless
speci?cally arranged for in a written agreement.
TRADE NAME SELECTION
AND REGISTRATION
The process of selecting a trade name begins with a
search for existing names registered by other companies.
Selecting a trade name used by another business can
make a company liable for trade name infringement.
Therefore, a business needs to check multiple sources for
existing trade names before making a ?nal decision on a
business name. Begin your search with the Secretary of
State’s searchable database of trade names registered in
the state.
Additional searches for speci?c business activity:
• Construction companies need to check name
availability ?rst with the Arizona Registrar of
Contractors by calling 602-542-1525.
• Mortgage companies need to check name
availability ?rst with the Arizona Department of
Financial Institutions by calling 602-771-2800.
The registration of a trade name (business name, DBA) is
not legally required in Arizona, but is an accepted business
practice. In addition, the registration of the trade name
may be required to open business bank accounts and help
obtain additional licenses.
As a sole proprietor or partnership, you may register your
business name with the Secretary of State. The trade
name application may be downloaded from the website
and can be either mailed or applied for in person. Of?ces
are open Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., excluding state
holidays.
Please note that applications for registration of a
trade name that are mailed to the Secretary of State’s
Of?ce must be notarized and include a photocopy of a
valid identi?cation card issued by a U.S. state or the
federal government. However, notarizations are not
required for those bringing their applications in person.
Instead, walk-in applicants must provide an identi?cation
card issued by a U.S. state or the federal government.
Arizona Secretary of State
Business Services, Trade Name Division
State Capitol Executive Tower
1700 W. Washington Street
1st Floor, Room 103
Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-4285; 800-458-5842
www.azsos.gov, select “Business Filings”
Arizona State Complex Building
400 W. Congress Street
2nd Floor, Room 252
Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6583
If you are ?ling as an LLC or corporation with the Arizona
Corporation Commission, it is not necessary to register
your corporate name as a trade name with the Secretary
of State’s of?ce, as names are cross-referenced with the
Commission.
LIMITED PARTNERSHIP (LP)
The limited partnership (LP) has become an increasingly
popular choice for business owners, especially those
involved in real estate or other investment ventures.
Unlike general partnerships, LPs can limit the liability
A certi?cate of ?ctitious name, primarily for “Doing
Business As” (DBA) title, can be issued by ?lling out a
form that states the name of the business owner and
business location at any County Recorder’s Of?ce.
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and the involvement of certain partners. This is useful for
attracting investment partners who would like to
participate in the pro?ts of the business but not
necessarily in its risks or daily operations.
The pro?ts and losses in a limited partnership ?ow through
the business to the partners, all of whom are taxed on their
personal income tax returns. LPs are required to register
with the Arizona Secretary of State.
Advantages:
• It is easier to attract investors since the only liability for
limited partners is the capital they invest in the business.
• LPs allow general partners to focus their efforts on
running the business.
• Limited partners may leave or be replaced without
dissolving the LP.
Disadvantages:
• Each general partner assumes full personal liability
for the debts and obligations of the partnership.
• The limited partners are limited in the role they can
play in the running of the company.
• If the general partner wants to transfer his role in the
company, or add a new partner, the limited partner
has the ability to veto his choice.
Foreign Limited Partnership (LP), Foreign Limited
Liability Partnership (LLP) and Foreign Limited
Liability Limited Partnership (LLLP)
If the business is a foreign entity – an entity organized
under the laws of another state or country – it must register
with the Arizona Secretary of State. You may download the form
www.azsos.gov/business_services/partnerships/PartnershipForms.htm.
LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP (LLP)
AND LIMITED LIABILITY LIMITED
PARTNERSHIP (LLLP)
Arizona’s limited liability partnership statutes (A.R.S. §
29-1101, et seq.) govern both limited liability partnerships
(LLPs) and limited liability limited partnerships (LLLPs)
and permit both general partnerships and limited
partnerships to elect limited liability for their general
partner(s). The owners report company pro?ts and losses
on their personal income tax forms. The business itself is
not subject to a federal income tax, as corporations are.
To ensure that all legal requirements are satis?ed, it is a
good idea to consult an attorney to organize these types
of partnerships. LLPs and LLLPs are required to register
with the Arizona Secretary of State.
Advantages:
• There are no restrictions as to maximum number of
partners.
• There is a limit to the amount that may be recovered
in a lawsuit to partnership assets alone.
• LLPs and LLLPs always treated as a partnership
entity for tax purposes.
Disadvantages:
• The individual acting as general partner assumes
personal liability.
• The limited partners are limited in the role they can
play in the running of the company.
• A few states do not recognize these business
structures.
Registration of a state trademark/service mark:
Arizona Secretary of State
www.azsos.gov select “Business Filings.”
Filing a federal patent and/or trademark/service mark:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Of?ce
www.uspto.gov
Obtaining a federal copyright:
U.S. Copyright Of?ce
www.copyright.gov
LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (LLC)
AND CORPORATIONS
Should you decide to create a limited liability company
(LLC) or corporation, you must then ?le with the
Corporations Division of the Arizona Corporation
Commission.
Arizona Corporation Commission, Corporations Division
1300 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-3026; 800-345-5819
www.azcc.gov/divisions/corporations
400 W. Congress Street, Suite 221, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6560
Reserving of the LLC or Corporation Name
Electronically ?ling your business name reservation
for $45 immediately reserves your name so no other
person can take it. However, if you do not need to
expedite your name ?ling, you may reserve your name
by downloading the application from the Arizona
Corporation Commission website, and it can be either
mailed or applied for in person for $10.
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LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (LLC)
A limited liability company (LLC) is a ?exible form of
enterprise that blends elements of the partnership and
corporate structures. LLCs are popular because, similar
to a corporation, owners have limited personal liability
for the debts and actions of the LLC. Other features of
LLCs are more like a partnership, providing management
?exibility and the bene?t of pass-through taxation.
Owners of an LLC are called members. There is no
maximum number of members. LLCs are required to ?le
with the Arizona Corporation Commission.
Advantages:
• Owners have limited personal liability for business
debts even if they participate in management.
• Pro?t and loss can be allocated differently than
ownership interests.
• Can build in buy or sell, and owner compensation
provision.
Disadvantages:
• LLCs are more expensive to create than partnership
or sole proprietorship.
• A large number of owners complicates status.
• Death, bankruptcy or withdrawal of owner may cause
problems.
CORPORATION
A corporation is the most complex type of business
organization. It is formed by law as a separate entity,
completely distinct from those who own it, and has its own
rights and responsibilities.
The primary advantage of incorporating lies in the area of
liability. A corporation has its own legal identity, completely
separate from its owners. The corporation safeguards the
business owner’s personal assets, and its protection alone
justi?es the additional expense and paperwork.
In forming a corporation, potential shareholders usually
offer money and/or property in exchange for capital stock.
The shareholders are the owners of the corporation, and
the directors and of?cers of the corporation may or may
not be shareholders. Corporations are required to ?le
with the Arizona Corporation Commission.
Advantages:
• A corporation is a separate legal entity with unlimited
life of the business.
• There is limited liability for shareholders and transfer
of ownership through stock sale.
• It is relatively easy to raise capital.
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Disadvantages:
• Corporations are complex and expensive to organize
with extensive regulation and record-keeping
requirements.
• Activities are limited by the corporate charter.
• Corporations are subject to double taxation – once
on corporation pro?ts and again on dividends.
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
An Employer Identi?cation Number (EIN) is also known
as a Federal Tax Identi?cation Number, and is used to
identify a business entity. You may apply for an EIN athttps://sa2.www4.irs.gov/modiein/individual/index.jsp
or call 800-829-4933.
S CORPORATION
An S corporation sometimes referred to as a “Subchapter
S corporation,” allows you the protection of a corporation
with some of the ?nancial ?exibility of a partnership and
elects not to be subject to federal corporate income tax.
The shareholders, however, include their shares of the
corporation’s items of income, deduction, loss and credit,
or their shares of non-separately computed income or
loss, as part of their personal income.
To qualify as an S corporation, a corporation must meet
the following:
• It must be based in the United States,
• It must have only one class of stock,
• It must have no more than 75 shareholders, and
• It cannot have any nonresident alien as a shareholder.
A corporation that meets all of the above criteria can
become an S corporation if:
• All shareholders consent to the corporation’s election
of S corporation,
• The corporation has a permitted tax year, and
• It is ?led with the Arizona Corporation Commission
as a corporation.
To elect to be an S corporation, a corporation must ?le
Form 2553 with IRS. The election permits the income to
be taxed to the shareholders of the corporation rather
than to the corporation itself, except as noted in the
IRS general information booklet entitled “Instructions
for Form 2553, Election by a Small Business
Corporation.” For instructions and Form 2553, visit the
IRS website at www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i2553.pdf and
www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f2553.pdf.
NON-PROFIT CORPORATION
Arizona allows the formation of a non-pro?t corporation,
but if the corporation intends to be tax-exempt, it must
apply for that status through the Internal Revenue
Service (IRS). There are more than a dozen different
types of corporations approved by the Internal Revenue
Service as “tax-exempt non-pro?t.” These organizations
usually are developed and operated exclusively for one
or more of the following purposes: charitable, religious,
educational, scienti?c, literary, testing for public safety,
fostering amateur sports competition (under certain
restrictions), or the prevention of cruelty to children or
animals. The organization may be a corporation, community
chest fund or foundation. A sole proprietorship or
partnership may not qualify. Non-pro?t corporations are
required to ?le with the Arizona Corporation Commission.
IRS Tax Information for Charities and Other Non-
Pro?ts, www.irs.gov/charities/index.html, discusses the
rules and procedures for organizations seeking to obtain
recognition of exemption from federal income tax.
The Arizona Department of Revenue publishes “Non-
Pro?t Organizations” brochure. To view, visit their
website at www.azdor.gov/Portals/0/Brochure/501.pdf.
For a listing of organizations supporting non-pro?ts,
visit the Arizona Commerce Authority’s website at
www.azcommerce.com/smallbiz, under “Click on a
Step or Topic of Interest” select “Business Structure
(Entity)/Employer Identi?cation Number (EIN)” for
“Non-pro?t Corporation.”
Foreign Limited Liability Company (LLC), Foreign
Corporation and Foreign Non-Profit Corporation
If your business is organized under the laws of
another state or country and you want to conduct
business within Arizona, you will need to register
as a foreign limited liability company (LLC), foreign
pro?t corporation, or foreign non-pro?t corporation
with the Arizona Corporation Commission. Visit the
Arizona Corporation Commission’s website for ?ling
instructions and to download the proper forms.
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COMPARISON CHART OF BUSINESS STRUCTURES*
Business owners have to pick the business structure that best meets their needs. No one choice suits every business! We recommend in addition
to the information on this page to consult with an accountant and/or attorney to help you select the form of ownership that is right for you.
SOLE
PROPRIETORSHIP
GENERAL
PARTNERSHIP
LIMITED LIABILITY
COMPANY (LLC)
“C” CORPORATION “S” CORPORATION
De?nition A business owned
and operated by
one person for
pro?t.
Two or more
people who jointly
own and operate a
business.
Blends the elements
of the partnership and
corporate structures.
Formed by law as a separate entity,
completely distinct from those who
own it, and has its own rights and
responsibilities.
Allows the protection of a
corporation with some of
the ?nancial ?exibility of a
partnership and elects not to
be subject to federal corporate
income tax.
Number
of Owners
Allowed
Only one owner. At least 2; no upper
limits.
Owners are called
partners.
At least 1; no upper
limits. Owners are
called members.
At least 1; no upper limits.
Shareholders are owners.
At least 1; upper limit is 75.
Shareholders are owners.
Arizona Filing
Requirements
None.
Recommended
trade name
registration.
None.
Recommended
written agreement
and trade name
registration.
File articles of
organization with the
Arizona Corporation
Commission includes
business name.
File articles of incorporation with the
Arizona Corporation Commission
includes business name.
File articles of incorporation
with the Arizona Corporation
Commission includes business
name. Must ?le Form 2553 with
IRS.
Management Owner has
absolute control.
In absence of
agreement, all
partners have
equal voice.
Governed by the
operating agreement.
Shareholders elect directors who set
policy; of?cers manage day to day
operations.
Same as a corporation.
Subject to
Income Tax
No, sole proprietor
pays all taxes.
No, income/loss is
passed through to
all partners.
No, income/loss is
passed through to
members.
Yes, shareholders also report income
from distributions and bonuses.
Of?cers and directors report salary
income.
No, income/loss is passed
through to the shareholders.
Liability The owner of the
business can be
held personally
liable for
the debts and
obligations of the
business.
All partners are
personally liable for
business debts and
liabilities.
Members have limited
personal liability for
business debts even
if they participate in
management.
The corporation safeguards the
shareholder’s personal assets except
personally guaranteed business debt,
or personal negligence or fault.
Same as a corporation.
Dissolution Easiest to dissolve.
Owner to pay
debt, taxes and
claims against the
business.
Partners pay debt,
taxes and claims
against the
business. Settle
partnership
account.
File articles of
dissolution with the
Arizona Corporation
Commission. Pay debt,
taxes and claims against
the LLC. Distribute
assets to members.
Shareholders must vote to approve
dissolution. File articles of dissolution
with the Arizona Corporation
Commission. Pay debt, taxes
and claims against the corporation.
Distribute corporate assets to
shareholders.
Same as a corporation.
* Limited Partnership (LP), Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) and Limited Liability Limited Partnership (LLLP) are not included in this chart.
40 AZ EE
BUSINESS LOCATIONS
Finding the correct business location is one of the most
important decisions you will make. The ideal location for
your business depends on a number of factors. The most
important consideration is the type of business. Before
you decide on a location, consider a few of the factors that
can help you select the best location for your business.
• If you conduct much of your business online, establishing
a home-based business might be more desirable and
economical than leasing commercial of?ce space.
B U S I N E S S C O N S I D E R A T I O N S
• If you manufacture products for distribution, an
ideal location might be an industrial park near major
transportation ports.
• If your type of business depends heavily on pedestrian
or drive-by traf?c, such as a ?orist, gift shop or clothing
boutique, you’ll want to seek a popular retail location.
HOME-BASED BUSINESSES
Home-based businesses, including those that operate
online, must comply with the same license and permit
requirements as a business located at a commercial site.
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In addition, home-based business activities must be in
compliance with city/county residential zoning rules and
homeowners’ association rules or the deed restrictions
on property.
To access referrals/listing of, and/or to verify licensed
professionals, contact:
Commercial Real Estate Broker:
Arizona Department of Real Estate
602-771-7799; 520-628-6940
www.re.state.az.us
LEASING A
COMMERCIAL OFFICE SPACE
Leasing a commercial of?ce space is one of the most
costly expenses made by new and expanding businesses.
Commercial leases are often negotiated, and there is no
standard for commercial leases. It’s recommended that
you obtain an attorney to help make sure you receive the
best deal.
BUYING A COMMERCIAL BUILDING
When buying a commercial building, you may bene?t from
working with a real estate professional. If you decide to
work with a realtor, choose one familiar with the area you
are shopping and one who is experienced in commercial
sales.
In Arizona, each incorporated city/town in which you
do business may have it’s own license, permit and/or
tax requirements, as well as zoning rules. Contact the
city/town in which your business will be based, as well
as, any city/town in which you will conduct business
to learn about local requirements and/or restrictions
that may affect your business.
If your business will be based and/or operate in an
unincorporated region of the county, check with the
county Planning and Zoning and/or Development
Services departments regarding zoning laws. Check
also with the Fire department and county Sheriff’s
of?ce for any regulations/restrictions that might
impact your business.
For a listing of all county/city/town licensing of?ces,
visit the Arizona Commerce Authority’s website at
www.azcommerce.com/services/small-business-services,
select “Quick Links to Licensing Of?ces.”
ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCES
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers a
variety of compliance assistance resources such as
workshops, training sessions, hotlines, websites and
guides to assist you in complying with federal and state
environmental laws. To learn more, visit www.epa.gov.
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The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ)
issues permits, approvals and certi?cations to ensure
facilities are legally constructed and operated and that
discharges to the air, water and soil are within healthful
standards established by law.
Many industries are subject to environmental compliance
including: asphalt, auto repair, car wash, construction,
dry cleaner/laundry, food processing, pest control,
pharmaceutical, photographer, portland cement plant,
print shop, rv/mobile home park, school, solid waste hauler,
spray painting booth, water company, woodworking shop,
etc. For a more comprehensive list, visit the ADEQ
website.
Arizona Department of Environmental Quality
Main Of?ce
1110 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-771-2300; 800-234-5677
www.azdeq.gov
Serves: State and Maricopa, Pinal and Gila counties
Southern Regional Of?ce
400 W. Congress Street, Suite 433, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6733; 888-271-9302
Serves: Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, La Paz, Pima,
Santa Cruz and Yuma counties
In addition to federal and state compliances, contact
your county’s Environmental Services Department
regarding environment licensing, permits and
requirements. For a listing of all county licensing of?ces,
visit the Arizona Commerce Authority’s website at
www.azcommerce.com/services/small-business-services,
select “Quick Links to Licensing Of?ces.”
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
is charged with setting and enforcing workplace safety
and health standards. Small businesses, particularly
those in high-hazard industries or involved in hazardous
operations, can use the free On-Site Consultation
Service to help improve their safety performance. Safety
and health consultants work with employers to identify
workplace hazards, provide advice on compliance with
OSHA standards, and assist in establishing safety and
health programs. For more information, www.osha.gov.
ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCES (continued)
Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health
(ADOSH)
Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health
(ADOSH) operates under an approved plan with the
U.S. Department of Labor to retain jurisdiction over
occupational safety and health issues within Arizona,
excluding mining operations, Indian Reservations and
federal employees.
ADOSH has seven major areas of responsibility: boilers,
elevators, safety and health compliance, consultation
and training, policies, voluntary protection program, and
research & statistics (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
They provide a number of publications and other materials
to assist its businesses. For more information, visit their
website at www.ica.state.az.us/ADOSH/ADOSH_main.aspx
or contact the Phoenix of?ce at 602-542-5795, the Tucson
of?ce at 520-628-5478 or 855-268-5251.
MUSIC IN THE WORK PLACE
If you plan to play or incorporate copyrighted music in
your business (i.e., on the Internet, over the phone, in the
of?ce/building, restaurants, etc.), you will need to obtain
advanced permission from the copyright owner, or their
representative.
The following performing rights organizations license
performance rights for most of the music copyright
holders in the United States:
American Society of Composers, Authors and
Publishers (ASCAP)
www.ascap.com
Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI)
www.bmi.com
SESAC, Inc.
www.sesac.com
The Better Business Bureau’s online publication, Music
in the Marketplace, at www.bbb.org/us/article/3072
provides a general explanation of the nature and
functions of music performing rights organizations.
L I C E N S I N G A N D T A X E S
F O R Y O U R B U S I N E S S
44 • Arizona Licensing Agencies and Offces
» State of Arizona Agencies and Departments 44
» Arizona County Of?ces 48
» Arizona City/Towns Of?ces 49
53 • Taxes
» Federal Income Tax 53
» State Transaction Privilege Tax 54
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to
the fact that much of the information is created by external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
5
Busi ness L i censes and Tax I nf or mat i on
AZ EE 43
The Internal Revenue Service encourages
business owners to use IRS online services to
remain current on their tax responsibilities.
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STATE OF ARIZONA AGENCIES AND DEPARTMENTS
The following is a list of contact information for Arizona’s state agencies and departments that provide licensing,
certi?cation, or permits for business activities conducted in Arizona. Most links will take you directly to homepage;
information on business activity requirements may be posted under terms such as: Licensing, Permits, Certi?cations,
Applications and/or Forms.
If you are not sure if your business activity requires a
regulatory license or which agency is the correct one for
your profession or business activity, you may wish to visit
the AZ.gov Occupational Licenses by Agency or Department
web page athttp://az.gov/app/license/index.xhtml.
AGENCIES AND DEPARTMENTS ARE LISTED IN
ALPHABETICAL ORDER:
Accountancy, Board of
100 N. 15th Avenue, Suite 165, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-364-0804
www.azaccountancy.gov
Acupuncture Board of Examiners
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 230, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-3095 , press 1
www.azacupunctureboard.us
Agriculture, Department of
1688 W. Adams Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-4373
www.azda.gov
Appraisal, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 360, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-1558
www.appraisal.state.az.us
Federal
If your business is involved in activities that are supervised
and regulated by a federal agency, you may need to obtain
a federal license. The federal licenses and permits that
you may need for your business are listed on the SBA
website at www.sba.gov, under “Starting a Business”
select “Obtain Business Licenses.”
State
In Arizona, not all businesses need a license, and some
businesses may need more than one license. The number
and types of license(s) required depend on several factors
including what type of business you will have, where your
business will be based and operate, and what type of
products and/or services you will sell.
Visit the Arizona Commerce Authority’s Checklist Program
at www.azcommerce.com/services/small-business-services,
under “Selected Professions/Business Activities” you
will ?nd links to several professions’/business activities’
speci?c business licensing information. Although this
listing is not comprehensive, there are many to review.
Local
Regulatory licenses (or permits) may be required at the
local level by either the city/town and/or the county
in which your business will be based and/or operate.
Contact them directly to learn about their requirements
and/or restrictions.
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Attorney General, Arizona
1275 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-5025; 800-352-8431
www.azag.gov
400 W. Congress Street, South Building, Suite 315
Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6504
Barbers, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 220, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-4498
www.azbarberboard.us
Behavioral Health Examiners, Board of
3443 N. Central Avenue, Suite 1700, Phoenix, AZ 85012
602-542-1882
www.azbbhe.us
Boxing Commission
1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 260, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-364-1721
www.azracing.gov, select “Boxing”
Charter Schools, Board of
1616 W. Adams Street, Suite 170, Phoenix, AZ 85007
85007602-364-3080
www.asbcs.az.gov
Chiropractic Examiners, Board of
5060 N. 19th Avenue, Suite 416, Phoenix, AZ 85015
602-864-5088
www.azchiroboard.us
Contractors, Registrar of
1700 W. Washington Street, Suite 105, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-1525; 877-692-9762
www.azroc.gov
400 W. Congress Street, Suite 212, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6345
Corporation Commission
1300 W. Washington Street, 1st Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-3026; 800-345-5819
www.azcc.gov
400 W. Congress Street, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6560
Cosmetology, Board of
1721 E. Broadway Road, Tempe, AZ 85282
480-784-4539, ext. 4
www.azboc.gov
Dental Examiners, Board of
4205 N. 7th Avenue, Suite 300, Phoenix, AZ 85013
602-242-1492
www.azdentalboard.us
Economic Security, Department of
1789 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Child Care: 602-542-4248
Unemployment Tax: 602-771-6602
www.azdes.gov
Education, Department of
1535 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-4367
www.azed.gov/educator-certi?cation
Environmental Quality, Department of
1110 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-771-2300; 800-234-5677
www.azdeq.gov
400 W. Congress Street, Suite 433, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6733
Financial Institutions, Department of
2910 N. 44th Street, Suite 310, Phoenix, AZ 85018
602-771-2800; 800-544-0708
www.azd?.gov
Fire, Building and Life Safety, Department of
1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 100, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-364-1003
www.dfbls.az.gov
Funeral Directors and Embalmers, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 230, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-3095, press 3
www.azfuneralboard.us
Game and Fish Department
5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086
602-942-3000
www.azgfd.gov
Gaming, Department of
1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 450, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-771-4263
www.azgaming.gov
2901 Shamrell Boulevard, Suite 100, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
928-214-9410
400 W. Congress Street, Suite 156, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6468
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Health Services, Department of
150 N. 18th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-364-2536
www.azdhs.gov
Homeopathic and Integrated Medicine Examiners, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 230, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-8154
www.azhomeopathbd.az.gov
Industrial Commission of Arizona
800 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-4515
www.ica.state.az.us
2675 E. Broadway Road, Tucson, AZ 85716
520-628-5459
Insurance, Department of
2910 N. 44th Street, Suite 210, Phoenix, AZ 85018
602-364-4457; 877-660-0964
www.azinsurance.gov
Land Department, State
1616 W. Adams Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-4621
www.land.state.az.us
Liquor License and Control, Department of
800 W. Washington Street, 5th Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-5141
www.azliquor.gov
Lottery, Arizona
4740 E. University Drive, Phoenix, AZ 85034
480-921-4400, ext. 4439
www.arizonalottery.com
4010 E. Grant Road, Tucson, AZ 85712
520-628-5107
Massage Therapy, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 300, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-8604
www.massageboard.az.gov
Medical Board
9545 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
480-551-2700; 877-255-2212
www.azmd.gov
Medical Radiologic Technology Board of Examiners
4814 S. 40th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85040
602-255-4845
www.azrra.gov
ARI ZONA STATE AGENCI ES AND DEPARTMENTS ( i n al phabet i cal or der, cont i nued)
Mine Inspector
1700 W. Washington Street, 4th Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-5971
www.asmi.az.gov
Naturopathic Physicians Medical Board
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 300, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-8242
www.aznd.gov
Nursing, Board of
4747 N. 7th Street, Suite 200, Phoenix, AZ 85014
602-771-7800
www.azbn.gov
Nursing Care Institution Administrators and Assisted
Living Facility Managers, Board of Examiners of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite B-8, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-364-2273
www.aznciaboard.us
Occupational Therapy Examiners, Board of
4205 N. 7th Avenue, Suite 305, Phoenix, AZ 85013
602-589-8352
www.occupationaltherapyboard.az.gov
Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, Arizona
416 W. Congress Street, Suite 100, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-770-3500
www.azogcc.az.gov
Opticians, Board of Dispensing
1400 W. Washington Street, Room 230, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-8158
www.do.az.gov
Optometry, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 230, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-8155
www.optometry.az.gov
Osteopathic Examiners in Medicine and Surgery, Board of
9535 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
480-657-7703
www.azdo.gov
Pest Management, Of?ce of
1688 W. Adams Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-255-3664; 800-223-0618
www.sb.state.az.us
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AZ EE 47
Pharmacy, Board of
1616 W. Adams Street, Suite 120, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-771-2727
www.azpharmacy.gov
Physical Therapy, Board of
4205 N. 7th Avenue, Suite 208, Phoenix, AZ 85013
602-274-0236http://ptboard.az.gov
Physician Assistants, Regulatory Board of
9545 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
480-551-2700; 877-255-2212
www.azpa.gov
Podiatry Examiners, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 230, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-3095, press 6
www.podiatry.az.gov
Private Postsecondary Education, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Room 260, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-5709
www.azppse.gov
Psychologist Examiners, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 235, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-8162
www.psychboard.az.gov
Public Safety, Department of
2102 W. Encanto Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ 85009-2847
602-223-2361
www.azdps.gov
Racing, Department of
1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 260, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-364-1700
www.azracing.gov
Radiation Regulatory Agency
4814 S. 40th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85040
602-255-4845
www.azrra.gov
Real Estate, Department of
2910 N. 44th Street, Suite 100, Phoenix, AZ 85018
602-771-7700
www.azre.gov
Respiratory Care Examiners, Board of
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 200, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-5995
www.rb.az.gov
Revenue, Department of
1600 W. Monroe Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007-2650
602-255-2060; 800-843-7196
www.azdor.gov
275 E. Germann Road, Building 2, Suite 180,
Gilbert, AZ 85297-2917
400 W. Congress Street, Tucson AZ 85701
Secretary of State
1700 W. Washington Street, Suite 103, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-6187
www.azsos.gov
400 W. Congress Street, Room 252, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-628-6583
State Parks
1300 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-4174
www.azstateparks.com
Supreme Court, Arizona
1501 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-452-3300
www.azcourts.gov
Technical Registration, Board of
1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 240, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-364-4930
www.azbtr.gov
Transportation, Department of
See website for nearest location
602-712-7355
www.azdot.gov
Veterinary Medical Examining Board
1400 W. Washington Street, Room 240, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-364-1738
www.vetboard.az.gov
Water Resources, Department of
3550 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85012
602-771-8500
www.azwater.gov/dwr
Weights and Measures, Department of
4425 W. Olive Avenue, Suite 134, Glendale, AZ 85302-3843
602-771-4920; 800-277-6675
www.azdwm.gov
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ARIZONA COUNTY OFFICES
If your business will be based and/or operate in an
unincorporated region of the county, check with that
county Development Services and/or Planning and
Zoning departments regarding your business activity
requirements and/or restrictions. When at their
website, look under “Departments” to ?nd the
department you need.
In addition, the county health departments issue permits
to – and performs inspections on – businesses such as
food establishments, pet shops, public accommodations,
public and semi-public swimming pools, mobile food
vendors and trailer parks. The county also regulates
water, wastewater and solid waste related activities.
COUNTIES ARE LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER:
Apache County
75 W. Cleveland Street, St. Johns, AZ 85936
928-337-7526
www.co.apache.az.us
Cochise County
1415 Melody Lane, Building G, Bisbee, AZ 85603
520-432-9200
www.cochise.az.gov
Coconino County
2500 N. Fort Valley Road, Building 1, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
928-679-8850
www.coconino.az.gov
Gila County
608 E. Highway 260, Payson, AZ 85541
Payson: 928-474-9276
Globe: 928-402-4224
www.gilacountyaz.gov
Graham County
921 W. Thatcher Boulevard, Safford, AZ, 85546
928-428-0410
www.graham.az.gov
Greenlee County
253 Fifth Street, Clifton, AZ 85533
928-865-4762
www.co.greenlee.az.us
La Paz County
1112 Joshua Avenue, Suite 202, Parker, AZ 85344
928-669-6138
www.co.la-paz.az.us
Maricopa County
501 N. 44th Street, Suite 200, Phoenix, AZ 85008
602-506-3301
www.maricopa.gov
Mohave County
3250 E. Kino Avenue, Kingman, AZ 86409
928-757-0903
www.mohavecounty.us
Navajo County
100 E. Code Talkers Drive, Holbrook, AZ 86025
Holbrook: 928-524-4000
Show Low: 928-532-6000
Winslow: 928-289-6800
www.navajocountyaz.gov
Pima County
201 N. Stone Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-740-6800
www.pimaxpress.com
Pinal County
31 N. Pinal Street, Building F, Florence, AZ 85132
520-866-6442
www.pinalcountyaz.gov
Santa Cruz County
2150 N. Congress Drive, Nogales, AZ 85621
520-375-7930
www.co.santa-cruz.az.us
Yavapai County
1120 Commerce Drive, Prescott, AZ 86305
928-771-3214
www.yavapai.us
Yuma County
2351 W. 26th Street, Yuma, AZ 85364
928-817-5000
www.yumacountyaz.gov
Arizona Councils of Government (COGS) serves the
local governments and the citizens in the state by
dealing with issues and needs that cross city, town,
county and even state boundaries. There are six Councils
of Governments in the state. For more information
and their contact information, visit the website at
www.azmag.gov/archive/AZ-COGs/index.asp.
Arizona at a Glance provides a snapshot of Arizona’s key
indicators, including economic information, population
and demographics, workforce and quality of life. Visit
the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) website at
www.azcommerce.com select “Facts & Figures.”
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ARIZONA CITY/TOWN OFFICES
Each incorporated city/town in which you do business
may have it’s own license, permit and/or tax requirements,
as well as zoning rules. Contact the city/town in which
your business will be based, as well as any city/town in
which you will conduct business to learn about local
requirements and/or restrictions that may affect your
business. Information on business activity requirements
may be posted under terms such as: Licensing, Permits,
Certi?cations, Applications and/or Forms.
CITIES/TOWNS ARE LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER:
Apache Junction, City of
300 E. Superstition Boulevard, Building C
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
480-474-5070
www.ajcity.net
Avondale, City of
11465 W. Civic Center Drive, Suite 270, Avondale, AZ 85323
623-333-2001
www.avondale.org
Benson, City of
120 W. 6th Street, Benson, AZ 85602
520-586-2245
www.cityofbenson.com
Bisbee, City of
118 Arizona Street, Bisbee, AZ 85603
520-432-6000
www.cityofbisbee.com
Buckeye, Town of
530 E. Monroe Avenue, Buckeye, AZ 85326
623-349-6000
www.buckeyeaz.gov
Bullhead City, City of
2355 Trane Road, Bullhead City, AZ 86442
928-763-0110
www.bullheadcity.com
Camp Verde, Town of
473 S. Main Street, Suite 102, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
928-567-6631http://campverde.az.gov
AZ EE 49
Carefree, Town of
8 Sundial Circle, Carefree, AZ 85377
480-488-3686
www.carefree.org
Casa Grande, City of
510 E. Florence Boulevard, Casa Grande, AZ 85122
520-421-8600
www.casagrandeaz.gov
Cave Creek, Town of
37622 N. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, AZ 85331
480-488-1400
www.cavecreek.org
Chandler, City of
175 S. Arizona Avenue, Suite A, Chandler, AZ 85225
480-782-2280
www.chandleraz.org
Chino Valley, Town of
1982 Voss Drive, Chino Valley, AZ 86323
928-636-4427
www.chinoaz.net
Clarkdale, Town of
890 Main Street, Clarkdale, AZ 86324
928-639-2400
www.clarkdale.az.us
Clifton, Town of
510 N. Coronado Boulevard, Clifton, AZ 85533
928-865-4146
Colorado City, Town of
25 S. Central Street, Colorado City, AZ 86021
928-875-2646
Coolidge, City of
130 W. Central Avenue, Coolidge, AZ 85128
520-723-5361
www.coolidgeaz.com
Cottonwood, City of
827 N. Main Street, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
928-634-5526http://cottonwoodaz.gov
Dewey-Humboldt, Town of
2735 S. Highway 69, Suite 12
Humboldt Station, Humboldt, AZ 86329
928-632-7362
www.dhaz.gov
>
Communities statewide support a diverse economy and
quality of life. Visit the Arizona Commerce Authority
website at www.azcommerce.com, select “Facts &
Figures” to view pro?les of more than 100 Arizona
communities.
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Douglas, City of
425 E. 10th Street, Douglas, AZ 85607
520-417-7333
www.douglasaz.gov
Duncan, Town of
506 SE Old West Highway, Duncan, AZ 85534
928-359-2791
Eagar, Town of
22 W. 2nd Street, Eagar, AZ 85925
928-333-4128
www.eagaraz.gov
El Mirage, City of
12145 NW Grand Avenue, El Mirage, AZ 85335
623-876-2965
www.cityofelmirage.org
Eloy, City of
624 N. Main Street, Eloy, AZ 85131
520-464-3401
www.eloyaz.org
Flagstaff, City of
211 W. Aspen Avenue, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
928-213-2250
www.?agstaff.az.gov
Florence, Town of
775 N. Main Street, Florence, AZ 85132
520-868-7500
www.?orenceaz.gov
Fountain Hills, Town of
16705 E. Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
480-816-5100
www.fh.az.gov
Fredonia, Town of
25 N. Main Street, Fredonia, AZ 86022
928-643-7241
www.fredoniaaz.net
Gila Bend, Town of
644 W. Pima Street, Gila Bend, AZ 85337
928-683-2255
www.gilabendaz.org
Gilbert, Town of
90 E. Civic Center Drive, Gilbert, AZ 85296
480-503-6700
www.gilbertaz.gov
Glendale, City of
5850 W. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85301
623-930-3190
www.glendaleaz.com
Globe, City of
150 N. Pine Street, Globe, AZ 85501
928-425-7146
www.globeaz.gov
Goodyear, City of
190 N. Litch?eld Road, Goodyear, AZ 85338
623-882-7874
www.goodyearaz.gov
Guadalupe, Town of
9241 S. Avenida Del Yaqui, Guadalupe, AZ 85283
480-505-5367
www.guadalupeaz.org
Hayden, Town of
520 N. Velasco Avenue, Hayden, AZ 85135
520-356-7801
www.townofhayden.net
Holbrook, City of
465 First Avenue, Holbrook, AZ 86025
928-524-6225
www.ci.holbrook.az.us
Huachuca City, Town of
500 N. Gonzales Boulevard, Huachuca City, AZ 85616
520-456-1354
www.huachucacityaz.gov
Jerome, Town of
600 Clark Street, Jerome, AZ 86331
928-634-7943
Kearny, Town of
912-C Tilbury Drive, Kearny, AZ 85237
520-363-5547
www.townofkearny.com
Kingman, City of
310 N. Fourth Street, Kingman, AZ 86401
928-753-5561
www.cityofkingman.gov
Lake Havasu City
2330 McCulloch Boulevard North, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
928-453-4146
www.lhcaz.gov
ARI ZONA CI TY/TOWN OFFI CES ( i n al phabet i cal or der, cont i nued)
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Litch?eld Park, City of
214 W. Wigwam Boulevard, Litch?eld Park, AZ 85340
623-935-4364
www.litch?eld-park.org
Mammoth, Town of
125 N. Clark Street, Mammoth, AZ 85618
520-487-2331
Marana, Town of
11555 W. Civic Center Drive, Marana, AZ 85653
520-382-1999
www.marana.com
Maricopa, City of
45145 W. Madison Avenue, Maricopa, AZ 85139
520-568-9098
www.maricopa-az.gov
Mesa, City of
55 N. Center Street, Mesa, AZ 85201
480-644-2316
www.mesaaz.gov
Miami, Town of
500 W. Sullivan Street, Miami, AZ 85539
928-473-4403
Nogales, City of
777 N. Grand Avenue, Nogales, AZ 85621
520-287-6571
www.nogalesaz.gov
Oro Valley, Town of
11000 N. La Canada Drive, Oro Valley, AZ 85737
520-229-4700
www.orovalleyaz.gov
Page, City of
697 Vista Avenue, Page, AZ 86040
928-645-8861
www.cityofpage.org
Paradise Valley, Town of
6401 E. Lincoln Drive, Town of Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
480-948-7411
www.ci.paradise-valley.az.us
Parker, Town of
1314 11th Street, Parker, AZ 85344
928-669-9265
www.ci.parker.az.us
Patagonia, Town of
310 E. McKeown Avenue, Patagonia, AZ 85624
520-394-2229http://townofpatagonia.com
Payson, Town of
303 N. Beeline Highway, Payson, AZ 85541
928-474-5242
www.paysonaz.gov
Peoria, City of
8401 W. Monroe Street, Peoria, AZ 85345
623-773-7112
www.peoriaaz.gov
Phoenix, City of
251 W. Washington Street, 3rd Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85003
602-262-6785, press 4
www.phoenix.gov
Pima, Town of
110 W. Center, Pima, AZ 85543
928-485-2611
www.pimatown.az.gov
Pinetop-Lakeside, Town of
1360 N. Niels Hansen Lane, Lakeside, AZ 85929
928-368-8883http://ci.pinetop-lakeside.az.us
Prescott, City of
201 S. Cortez Street, Prescott, AZ 86303
928-777-1268
www.cityofprescott.net
Prescott Valley, Town of
7501 E. Civic Circle, Prescott Valley, AZ 86314
928-759-3135
www.pvaz.net
Quartzsite, Town of
465 N. Plymouth Avenue, Quartzsite, AZ 85346
928-927-4333
www.ci.quartzsite.az.us
Queen Creek, Town of
22350 S. Ellsworth Road, Queen Creek, AZ 85242
480-987-9887
www.queencreek.org
Safford, City of
717 W. Main Street, Safford, AZ 85546
928-432-4000
www.cityofsafford.us
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Sahuarita, Town of
375 W. Sahuarita Center Way, Sahuarita, AZ 85629
520-822-8801
www.ci.sahuarita.az.us
St. Johns, City of
75 W. Cleveland Street, St. Johns, AZ 85936
928-337-4517
www.sjaz.us
San Luis, City of
1090 E. Union Street, San Luis, AZ 85349
928-341-8565
www.cityofsanluis.org
Scottsdale, City of
7447 E. Indian School Road, Suite 110, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
480-312-2400
www.scottsdaleaz.gov
Sedona, City of
102 Roadrunner Drive, Sedona, AZ 86336
928-282-1154
www.sedonaaz.gov
Show Low, City of
180 N. 9th Street, Show Low, AZ 85901
928-532-4000
www.showlowaz.gov
Sierra Vista, City of
1011 N. Coronado Drive, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
520-458-3315
www.sierravistaaz.gov
Snow?ake, Town of
81 W. 1st South, Snow?ake, AZ 85937
928-536-7103, ext. 254
www.ci.snow?ake.az.us
Somerton, City of
150 W. Main Street, Somerton, AZ 85350
928-722-7370
www.cityofsomerton.com
South Tucson, City of
1601 S. Sixth Avenue, South Tucson, AZ 85713
520-792-2424
www.southtucson.org
Springerville, Town of
418 E. Main Street, Springerville, AZ 85938
928-333-2656
www.springervilleaz.gov
ARI ZONA CI TY/TOWN OFFI CES ( i n al phabet i cal or der, cont i nued)
Star Valley, Town of
3675 E. Highway 260, Star Valley, AZ 85541
928-472-7752http://ci.star-valley.az.us
Superior, Town of
199 N. Lobb Avenue, Superior, AZ 85173
520-689-5752
www.superior-arizona.com
Surprise, City of
16000 N. Civic Center Plaza, Surprise, AZ 85374
623-222-1836
www.surpriseaz.gov
Taylor, Town of
425 Papermill Road, Taylor, AZ 85939
928-536-7366
www.tayloraz.org
Tempe, City of
20 E. 6th Street, 3rd Floor, Tempe, AZ 85281
480-350-2955
www.tempe.gov
Thatcher, Town of
3700 W. Main Street, Thatcher, AZ 85552
928-428-2290http://thatcher.az.gov
Tolleson, City of
9555 W. Van Buren Street, Tolleson, AZ 85353
623-936-7111
www.tollesonaz.org
Tombstone, City of
315 Fremont Street, Tombstone, AZ 85638
520-457-2202
www.cityoftombstone.com
Tucson, City of
255 W. Alameda Street, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-791-4566
www.tucsonaz.gov
Tusayan, Town of
845 Mustang Street, Tusayan, Arizona, 86023
928-638-9909
www.tusayan-az.gov
Wellton, Town of
28634 Oakland Avenue, Wellton, AZ 85356
928-785-3348
www.town.wellton.az.us
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Wickenburg, Town of
155 N. Tegner Street, Suite A, Wickenburg, AZ 85390
928-684-5451
www.ci.wickenburg.az.us
Willcox, City of
101 S. Railroad Avenue, Suite B, Willcox, AZ 85643
520-384-4271
www.cityofwillcox.org
Williams, City of
113 S. First Street, Williams, AZ 86046
928-635-4451
www.williamsaz.gov
Winkelman, Town of
206 Gif?n Avenue, Winkelman, AZ 85192
520-356-7854
Winslow, City of
21 N. Williamson, Winslow, AZ 86047
928-289-2421
www.ci.winslow.az.us
Youngtown, Town of
12030 Clubhouse Square, Youngtown, AZ 85363
623-933-8286
www.youngtownaz.org
Yuma, City of
One City Plaza, Yuma, AZ 85364
928-373-5074
www.yumaaz.gov
The League of Arizona Cities and Towns provides
an important link to the 91 incorporated cities and
towns in Arizona. For information on their services
and cities/towns online directory, visit their website at
www.azleague.org.
T A X E S
One of the responsibilities of starting and operating a
business is determining the type of taxes your business
should pay.
FEDERAL INCOME TAX
Every business must ?le an annual return with the Internal
Revenue Service (IRS). Separate forms or schedules apply
depending on the type of business.
The IRS has excellent, easy-to-read publications to
help you understand the tax system on their website at
www.irs.gov/Businesses, select any of the business topics
listed:
• Starting a Business
• Operating a Business
• Closing a Business
• Employer ID Numbers
• Small Business Events
• Employment Taxes
• Appeal a Tax Dispute
• Businesses Home
54 AZ EE
FEDERAL EXCISE TAX
Excise taxes are taxes paid when purchases are made on
a speci?c good, such as gasoline. These taxes are often
included in the price of the product. There are also excise
taxes on activities, such as on wagering or on highway
usage by trucks. The IRS provides a complete list on
excise taxes and speci?c information on their website at
www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/Excise-Tax.
FEDERAL AND STATE
EMPLOYMENT TAXES
Review the “Hiring Employees and Contract Labor” in the
next chapter (6) of this resource guide for information.
STATE CORPORATE INCOME TAX
Every corporation doing business in Arizona is required to
?le a corporate income tax return. For more information,
visit the Arizona Department of Revenue website at www.
azdor.gov/Forms/Corporate.aspx or call 602-255-3381
or 800-352-4090.
STATE PROPERTY TAX
With the exception of centrally valued properties such
as airlines, railroads and mines, property tax in Arizona is
assessed and administered in each individual county by
the county assessor. For a list of links to county websites,
visithttp://az.gov/government_county_statemap.html.
STATE TRANSACTION PRIVILEGE TAX
If you are selling a product or engaging in a service
subject to transaction privilege tax, you will need to
obtain the state transaction privilege tax (TPT) license
(commonly referred to as a sales tax, resale, wholesale,
vendor or tax license).
To access referrals/listing of, and/or to verify licensed
professionals, contact:
Accountant:
Arizona Society of Certi?ed Public Accountants
(ASCPA)
602-252-4144; 888-237-0700
www.ascpa.com
Attorney:
State Bar of Arizona
602-252-4804; 520-623-9944; 866-482-9227
www.azbar.org
If you pay someone to prepare your tax return, the
IRS urges you to choose that preparer wisely. The
IRS now requires all tax preparers to register and
take a test as well as take continuing classes. Before
choosing a tax professional, go to www.irs.gov and
enter keyword search term “Tips for Choosing a Tax
Return Preparer.”
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AZ EE 55
To review tax publications regarding activities subject
to the state transaction privilege tax, visit the Arizona
Department of Revenue website at www.aztaxes.gov
and click on “Publications.” In addition, review the
“Arizona Licensing Guide.”
ARIZONA JOINT TAX APPLICATION
(FORM JT-1)
The Arizona Joint Tax Application (Form JT-1) is used to
apply for:
• Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) License
• Withholding/Unemployment Tax License
• Use Tax License
• TPT for Cities
The application is called “Joint” because it is used by both
the Arizona Department of Revenue (DOR) and Arizona
Department of Economic Security (DES). The DOR also
issues City Transaction Privilege Tax licenses for cities that
have entered into a joint collection program with the state.
The fees vary from city to city, and a listing of participating
municipalities is provided on the application.
TRANSACTION PRIVILEGE TAX (TPT)
LICENSE
To apply online for a state transaction privilege tax
(TPT) license, if you are starting a new business with no
previous owners, go to www.aztaxes.gov, select “License
a New Business.” You can download the application form
(JT-1) from DOR’s website www.azdor.gov/Forms.aspx,
select “TPT,” and mail in or take in person to one of DOR’s
locations with the applicable state and city/town fee(s).
Note: Due to bonding requirements, construction
contractors are not permitted to ?le online.
You will be required to include your North American
Industry Classi?cation System (NAICS) codes on your
TPT application. NAICS was developed jointly by the
U.S., Canada and Mexico to provide new comparability
in statistics about business activity across North
America. To look up your NAICS codes, visit the Arizona
Department of Revenue website at www.aztaxes.gov
and click on “Business Tax Description Codes.”
STATE WITHHOLDING AND
UNEMPLOYMENT TAX LICENSE
Review the “Hiring Employees and Contract Labor”
section (6) of this resource guide for information on
Withholding and Unemployment Tax.
USE TAX LICENSE
Use tax is due when tax was not paid on purchases
made over the Internet, through toll-free numbers,
from mail order catalogs, and/or from out-of-state
locations. Arizona Department of Revenue’s Publication
#610 “Use Tax” is available for your review at
www.azdor.gov/Portals/0/Brochure/610.pdf.
Arizona Department of Revenue
602-255-2060; 800-843-7196
www.azdor.gov
Locations:
1600 W. Monroe Street
Phoenix, AZ 85007
275 E. Germann Road, Building 2, Suite 180
Gilbert, AZ 85297
400 W. Congress Street, South Building
Tucson, AZ 85701
Mail to:
Arizona Department of Revenue
ATTN: Taxpayer Information & Assistance
P.O. Box 29086
Phoenix, AZ 85038-9086
Tax Rate Tables
Visit Arizona Department of Revenue’s website at
www.azdor.gov/Business/TransactionPrivilegeTax/TPTRates.aspx
for state and county privilege tax rates, including the
city privilege tax rates and city codes for program
cities (taxes collected by the state). In addition, you will
?nd the list of non-program cities; these cities collect
their own taxes. The transaction privilege tax for these
cities must be reported directly to the applicable city.
Wholesale Tobacco Dealer’s License and Liquor
Wholesalers, Microbreweries, Farm Wineries and
Cider Products
Visit the Arizona Department of Revenue Luxury Tax
Section website at www.azdor.gov/Business/LuxuryTax.aspx,
or call 602-716-7808 to obtain the necessary tax forms to
report and pay taxes.
H I R I N G E M P L O Y E E S A N D
C O N T R A C T L A B O R
57 • Labor Guidelines
» Contract Labor 57
» Employees 58
» Employee Compensation and Bene?ts 62
63 • Workforce Assistance
» Arizona Workforce Connection 63
» Arizona Job Training Program 64
» Apprenticeship Program 64
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to the
fact that much of the information is created by external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
6
L abor Gui del i nes and Wor kf or ce Assi st ance
56 AZ EE
Pima County One-Stop opened the Kino Veterans’ Workforce Center, 2801 E. Ajo Way, Tucson, AZ
to help military veterans fnd jobs and receive training, benefts and support services, as well as to help employers hire veterans.
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L A B O R G U I D E L I N E S
Before you can determine how to treat payments you make for services, you must ?rst know the business relationship
that exists between you and the person performing the services.
The person performing the services may be:
• An independent contractor • An employee
In determining whether the person providing service is an employee or an independent contractor, all information
that provides evidence of the degree of control and independence must be considered. For more information,
visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov/businesses under “Small Businesses & Self-Employed,” select “Independent
Contractor (Self Employed) or Employee?”
CONTRACT LABOR
An individual is an independent contractor if the person
for whom the services are performed has the right to
control or direct only the result of the work, and not what
will be accomplished and how it will be accomplished or
the method of accomplishing the result.
The Independent Contractors section of the IRS website
and Publication 15-A, “Employer’s Supplemental Tax Guide”
(Supplement to Publication 15 [Circular E], Employer’s Tax
Guide), www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p15a.pdf, lists factors
used to help determine the classi?cation of independent
contractors versus payroll employees.
If you need clari?cation of status of your employees and/
or independent contractors, IRS Form SS-8,
“Determination of Worker Status for Purposes of Federal
Employment Taxes and Income Tax Withholding,”
www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fss8.pdf, is available from the IRS.
When using contract labor, you must complete IRS
Form 1099-MISC, “Miscellaneous Income” to report any
income you paid to the individual. You must send a copy
of this form to the recipient and to the IRS. Visit the IRS
website for instructions on ?ling the 1099-MISC form at
www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f1099msc.pdf.
58 AZ EE
Self-Employment Tax is a tax consisting of Social Security and Medicare tax primarily for individuals who work
for themselves. It is similar to the Social Security and Medicare taxes withheld from the pay of most wage earners.
This tax is in addition to any federal income tax you may pay on your net pro?ts. You may determine self-employment
tax (SE Tax) yourself using Schedule SE (Form 1040). Filing requirements are listed in the form’s instructions at
www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i1040.pdf.
For more information, see IRS’s Publication # 334, Tax Guide for Small Business (For Individuals Who Use Schedule
C or C-EZ) at www.irs.gov/publications/p334/index.html.
EMPLOYEES
FULL-TIME OR PART-TIME EMPLOYEES
If the person is classi?ed as an employee you must have an
Employer Identi?cation Number (EIN). You may apply for
an EIN online at www.irs.gov/businesses, click “Employer
ID Numbers” or you may obtain an EIN immediately by
calling 800-829-4933, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m.
to 5:30 p.m.
As an employer, your tax responsibilities include
withholding, depositing, reporting and paying employment
taxes. You must also give certain forms to your employees,
and they must give certain forms to you.
In addition, there is information that you need to secure
for your records and forms that you must complete:
• Eligibility to Work in the United States
• Employee’s Social Security Number (SSN)
• Federal Employee’s Withholding
• Arizona Employee Unemployment / Withholding
• Arizona New Hire Reporting
ELIGIBILITY TO WORK IN THE UNITED STATES
All employers are required to verify the employment
eligibility of new employees by completing the
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Employment Eligibility Veri?cation (Form I-9). The
Handbook for Employers, Instructions for Completing the
Form I-9 (M-274) and I-9 form is available on the USCIS
website at www.uscis.gov, select “Working in the US.”
In addition, E-Verify is an Internet-based system that
allows businesses to determine the eligibility of their
employees to work in the United States. Use the free
“E-Verify” program at www.uscis.gov under “Veri?cation.”
Employers may contact USCIS at 888-464-4218 with
questions regarding the Form 1-9 process or E-Verify.
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EMPLOYEE’S SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER (SSN)
As an employer, it is now your responsibility to report
payroll information annually to the Social Security
Administration and to your employees. Social Security
and Medicare taxes pay for bene?ts that workers
and families receive under the Federal Insurance
Contributions Act (FICA). Social Security tax pays for
bene?ts under the old-age, survivors and disability
insurance part of FICA. Medicare tax pays for bene?ts
under the hospital insurance part of FICA.
All employees must have a Social Security number. You
are required to get each employee’s name and Social
Security number and to enter them on Form W-2 (This
requirement also applies to resident and nonresident
alien employees).
Business Services Online (BSO), www.ssa.gov/bso,
enables organizations and authorized individuals
to conduct business with, and submit con?dential
information to, the Social Security Administration. You
must register to use this website. Registered users may
request, activate and access various BSO services and
functions including information on wage reporting.
You may speak to a Social Security representative
between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday by
calling 800-772-1213.
AZ EE 59
The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers
Social Security veri?cation and quick
access to relevant forms and publications at
www.socialsecurity.gov/employer/ssnv.htm.
Note: Any employee without a Social Security
card should apply for one using “Application
For A Social Security Card” (Form SS-5-FS) at
www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber.
FEDERAL EMPLOYEE’S WITHHOLDING TAX
You generally must withhold federal income tax from your
employee’s wages. All employees must sign a completed
and dated IRS Form W-4, “Employee’s Withholding
Allowance Certi?cate.“ To review publications and
download the W-4 form, visit the IRS website at
www.irs.gov, select “Forms & Pubs,” click “W-4.” Contact
the IRS at 800-829-1040 if you have additional questions.
The FirstStep Employment Law Advisor is designed
to help employers determine which federal
employment laws administered by the U.S.
Department of Labor (DOL) apply to their
business or organization, what recordkeeping
and reporting requirements they must comply
with, and which posters they need to post. For
more information, visit the DOL website at
www.dol.gov/elaws/?rststep.
ARIZONA WITHHOLDING TAX
Arizona law requires employers to withhold Arizona
income tax from wages for work done in Arizona.
All employees must sign a completed and dated Form
A-4, “Arizona Withholding Percentage Election.” To
download Form A-4 and the employer’s instructions, visit
the Arizona Department of Revenue (DOR) website at
www.azdor.gov/Forms/Withholding.aspx.
In addition, the Arizona Employer’s Handbook,
www.azdes.gov/main.aspx?menu=316&id=4185, will help
you understand the Employment Security Law of
Arizona and the withholding provisions of the State
Income Tax regulations.
ARIZONA UNEMPLOYMENT TAX
In Arizona, most employers are required by law to
pay unemployment taxes on the ?rst $7,000 in gross
wages paid to each employee in a calendar year.
For more information, you can review “A Guide to
Arizona Unemployment Insurance Bene?ts” at
www.azdes.gov/InternetFiles/Pamphlets/pdf/pau-007-PD.pdf.
Employers paying wages or salaries to employees
for services performed in the state must apply for
a withholding number and unemployment number.
The Arizona Joint Tax Application (JT-1) is used to
register for your withholding/unemployment tax.
Register online at www.aztaxes.gov click “License
a New Business” or download the form from the
DOR website at www.azdor.gov, select “Forms,”
click “Withholding.”
Arizona Department of Economic Security (ADES)
Unemployment Insurance Information Division
4000 N. Central Avenue, Suite 500, Phoenix, AZ 85012
602-771-6606; 877-600-2722
Email: [email protected]
www.azuitax.com
400 W. Congress Street, Tucson, AZ 85701
520-791-2722
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60 AZ EE
ARIZONA NEW HIRE REPORTING
Federal and state law requires employers to report all
employees to the Arizona New Hire Reporting Center
within 20 days of their hire date whether they are full-
time, part-time or temporary.
For information on how to report electronically, visithttp://az-newhire.com or call 888-282-2064, ext. 250.
Staff members are available to answer questions, discuss
reporting options, or provide a demonstration of the
website.
EMPLOYEE PAYROLL TAX
FEDERAL INCOME TAX, SOCIAL SECURITY AND
MEDICARE TAXES
You generally must withhold federal income tax from your
employees’ wages. You withhold part of Social Security
and Medicare taxes from your employees’ wages and you
pay a matching amount yourself.
To ?gure how much to withhold from each wage
payment, use the employee’s Form W-4 and the methods
described in Publication 15, Employer’s Tax Guide
and Publication 15-A, “Employer’s Supplemental Tax
Guide” at the IRS website, www.irs.gov/businesses click
“Employment Taxes.” Call 800-829-3676 or 800-829-1040
if you have additional questions.
For additional information, view the IRS Publication
#505, “Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax” at
www.irs.gov/publications/p505/index.html.
FEDERAL UNEMPLOYMENT (FUTA) TAX
The Federal Unemployment Tax is part of the federal
and state program under the Federal Unemployment Tax
Act (FUTA) that pays unemployment compensation to
workers who lose their jobs. You report and pay FUTA tax
separately from Social Security and Medicare taxes and
withheld income tax.
You pay FUTA tax only from your own funds. Employees
do not pay this tax or have it withheld from their pay. You
report FUTA taxes on the Form 940, “Employer’s Annual
Federal Unemployment (FUTA) Tax Return.” For forms,
visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov, and in the search box
type “Form 940 and Schedule A (Form 940).” For more
information, contact the IRS at 800-829-1040.
ARIZONA WITHHOLDING TAX
An employer must ?le a quarterly withholding tax return
with the Arizona Department of Revenue (DOR) to
report its Arizona withholding tax liability. Refer
to the “Arizona Withholding Liability/Payment
Schedule” section of the Form A1-QRT instructions,
www.azdor.gov/Forms/Withholding.aspx, for withholding
payment schedule computation.
Each payday, your employees must receive a
statement from you telling them what deductions
were made and how many dollars were taken out
for each legal purpose. This may be presented in a
variety of ways including on the check as a
detachable portion or in the form of an envelope
with the items printed and spaces for dollar
deductions to be ?lled in.
ARIZONA’S WORKERS’ COMPENSATION INSURANCE
Under Arizona law, it is mandatory for employers to secure
workers’ compensation insurance for their employees.
Workers’ compensation is a “no fault” system in which
an injured employee is entitled to receive bene?ts for an
industrial injury, no matter who caused the job-related
accident. Employers are required to bear the entire cost
of workers’ compensation insurance.
Companies may choose to insure their employees by
insuring with an authorized insurance carrier of the
state or by qualifying as a self-insurer under the rules
and regulations of the Industrial Commission. For a
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The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is a federal
law administered by the Wage and Hour Division of
the U.S. Department of Labor. This law establishes
minimum wage, overtime pay and child labor standards
for employers. The Industrial Commission of Arizona
has jurisdiction over all businesses in the state that are
not covered by the FLSA. The Industrial Commission
of Arizona also shares jurisdiction with the Wage and
Hour Division when both federal and state laws are
the same. Reprints of federal and Arizona’s labor laws
and additional information may be obtained on their
websites:
U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division
Phoenix District Of?ce
230 N. First Avenue, Suite 402
Phoenix, AZ 85003-1725
602-514-7100
www.wagehour.dol.gov
Tucson District Of?ce
300 W. Congress Street, Room 4-H
Tucson, AZ 85701
520-670-4899
Industrial Commission of Arizona
800 W. Washington Street
Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-542-4515
www.ica.state.az.us/Labor/Labor_MinWag_main.aspx
2675 E. Broadway
Tucson, AZ 85716
520-628-5459
EMPLOYMENT RESOURCES
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
www.eeoc.gov
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Administration of Children and Families
Of?ce of Child Support Enforcement
www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/index.html
Governor’s Of?ce of Equal Opportunityhttp://azgovernor.gov/eop
Arizona Department of Economic Security
Division of Child Support Enforcement
www.azdes.gov/dcse
listing of these companies, visit the Arizona Department
of Insurance website at www.azinsurance.gov, select
“Consumers” or contact the Consumer Affairs Division at
602-364-2499 or 800-325-2548.
The Industrial Commission of Arizona administers the
Workers’ Compensation Law. Visit their website at
www.ica.state.az.us/Claims/Claims_main.aspx or call
602-542-4661 or 520-628-4661 for more details.
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY
The Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health
(ADOSH) operates under an approved plan with the
U.S. Department of Labor to retain jurisdiction over
occupational safety and health issues within Arizona,
excluding mining operations, Indian Reservations and
federal employees. ADOSH provides a number of free
forms, posters and brochures to assist its constituency
with keeping workplaces safe and hazard-free.
Download these items from their website at
www.ica.state.az.us/ADOSH/ADOSH_main.aspx or call
602-542-5795, 520-628-5478, or 855-268-5251.
For numerous resources and information designed
speci?cally for smaller employers, including safety and
health tools and publications, easy-to-follow guides for
speci?c OSHA standards, and descriptions of bene?ts
that small businesses receive from OSHA, visit their
website at www.osha.gov/dcsp/smallbusiness/index.html
or call 800-321-6742.
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EMPLOYEE COMPENSATION
AND BENEFITS
Employers often compensate workers in ways beyond
paying wages or a salary, such as by providing fringe
bene?ts such as health insurance and retirement plans.
INDIVIDUAL AND GROUP HEALTH INSURANCE
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, home-based business,
or small business with employees, selecting the coorect
individual or group health plan is important. Along with
selecting your health plan, selecting an insurance carrier
is also important. Look for an insurance company with
a solid network of health care providers, timely claims
service, and relatively stable premiums. The Arizona
Department of Insurance website, www.azinsurance.gov,
provides information on consumer publications,
compared premiums, complaint ratios, health insurance
resources and more.
HEALTH CARE REFORM INFORMATION
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act was
passed on March 23, 2010. Provisions in the new
law become effective at varying dates through 2020.
For a summary of key provisions, visit the website at
www.id.state.az.us/healthcarereform.html.
In addition, through many chamber and association
memberships, businesses have access to a variety of
group insurance plans. See Chapter 8 for the contact
information of the many chambers of commerce and
associations in Arizona.
REQUIREMENTS FOR POSTERS
EMPLOYERS MUST DISPLAY
Federal and state laws require employers to display
of?cial labor and employment posters detailing federal
and applicable state labor laws where employees can
read them. Both federal agencies and state agencies
provide posters to employers at no cost.
On the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) website,
www.dol.gov/compliance/topics/posters.htm, free
electronic ?les are provided for printing copies of
the federally required posters. To obtain posters or
for more information about poster requirements or
other compliance assistance, you may contact DOL at
866-487-2365.
Required posters under the jurisdiction of
the Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA)
may be downloaded from their website at
www.ica.state.az.us/HomePage/HOME_Poster_Rules.aspx.
Information about required notices/posters under the
jurisdiction of other state agencies may be accessed from
the website,http://az.gov/business_workposters.html.
Contact your city/town of?ce for local smoking
ordinances.
In addition, the requirements for posters you may
need in your place of business are listed on the SBA
website, www.sba.gov/content/posters, along with an
explanation on compliance.
Healthcare Group of Arizona (HCG) is a state-sponsored
health plan that offers bene?t plan options for
businesses with two to ?fty employees. For more
information, visit www.hcgaz.gov or call 602-417-6755
or 800-247-2289.
RETIREMENT PLANS
There are many bene?ts for you and your employees
in setting up a retirement plan. For forms, publications,
and information on how to start, maintain and administer
a retirement plan, visit www.retirementplans.irs.gov.
A SIMPLE (Savings Incentive Match Plan for
Employees of Small Employers) IRA plan provides
you and your employees with a simpli?ed way
to contribute toward retirement. It reduces
taxes and, at the same time, attracts and retains
quality employees. For more information, visit
www.dol.gov/ebsa/publications/simple.html.
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W O R K F O R C E A S S I S T A N C E
AZ EE 63
ARIZONA WORKFORCE
CONNECTION
Arizona Workforce Connection is a statewide system
of workforce development partners that provide value-
added services at no cost to employers who seek access
to skilled new hires and existing worker training resources.
The Governor’s Council on Workforce Policy (GCWP)
presides over the workforce system and assists the
Governor in the development of a State Plan that
coordinates a statewide system of activities for
Workforce. The GCWP also designates local workforce
areas throughout the state.
There are more than a dozen designated Local Workforce
Investment Areas throughout Arizona. They are typically
found within each county. For more information, please
visit www.azcommerce.com/services/skilled-workforce.
Arizona employers pro?t from services tailored for unique
business needs. Through a network of one-stop centers
and online services, the Arizona Workforce Connection
provides:
• Seamless Access to Workforce Resources
• Employee Recruitment
• Labor Market Information
• Job Training and Hiring Tax Credits
• Customized Training and Skills Upgrading
• Solutions to Common Employee Barriers
• Pre-Layoff Assistance
The One-Stop Service Centers are located within each
of Arizona’s counties. To quickly locate the One-Stop
Service Center within your county, visit their website at
`.
Employers can post job openings using the
Employment Services site on www.azjobconnection.gov,
select “Find Employees.”
WORKFORCE TRAINING PROGRAMS
For a list of approved Workforce Training programs and providers, visit www.azjobconnection.gov, select “Resources.”
Contact your local One-Stop Service Center and/or community college for a listing of workforce training programs.
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ARIZONA JOB TRAINING PROGRAM
The Arizona Job Training Program is a job-speci?c
reimbursable grant program that supports the design and
delivery of customized training to meet speci?c needs of
employers, create new jobs, and help increase the skill
and wage levels of employees in Arizona.
This program can provide grant money to businesses
for training new employees or to supplement training
programs for incumbent employees. The program is
streamlined, ?exible and tailored to meet the speci?c
needs of each employer.
Once awarded, an employer may take up to two years to
complete the approved training program. As soon as the
training is complete, the employer may apply for a new
grant for additional job-speci?c training.
All applications are taken on a ?rst-come, ?rst-served
basis, and grants are awarded based on the availability
of funds at the time the application is approved. For
application forms, or to receive additional information,
visit the Arizona Commerce Authority website at
www.azcommerce.com/job-training or call 602-845-1200.
64 AZ EE
APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM
Apprenticeship is a proven strategy that combines
on-the-job training with related theoretical and practical
classroom instruction to prepare exceptional workers for
Arizona’s industry. Registered apprenticeship is a training
system that produces highly skilled workers that meet the
demands of employers competing in a global economy.
Private and public sectors – individual employers,
employer associations, or joint labor/management
sponsors – operate registered apprenticeship programs.
Program sponsors pay most of the training costs while
also paying progressively increasing wages to apprentices
as they gain skills. Registered apprenticeship programs
may be competency-based or time-based depending on
program sponsor needs.
Arizona has more than 100 registered apprenticeship
programs currently providing training to 3,000
apprentices. For more information and a complete
list of Arizona registered apprenticeships, visithttp://azapprenticeship.com.
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MAR KE T I NG AND SE L L I NG
YOUR P R ODUCT S OR SE R VI CE S
66 • Business Development
» Bringing Your Technology to Market 66
» Advancing Your Manufacturing 71
» Expanding to International Markets 71
73 • Government Procurement Opportunities
» Federal, State, and Local Government Procurement 73
» Certi?cation Programs 75
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to
the fact that much of the information is created by external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
7
Busi ness Devel opment and Pr ocur ement Oppor t uni t i es
AZ EE 65
The Arizona Innovation Challenge (AIC), powered by the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), awards the most money in the country for
a technology commercialization challenge – $3 million ($1.5 million twice yearly) to Arizona’s most promising technology ventures.
2012 AIC Awardees
66 AZ EE
B U S I N E S S D E V E L O P M E N T
BRINGING YOUR TECHNOLOGY TO MARKET
Research is the fertile ground from which most technology ventures spring. Arizona’s universities are able to assist you
in moving your technology closer to commercialization and provide you with expert advice and quali?ed assistance.
TECHNOLOGY LICENSING
Technology licensing involves bringing scienti?c inventions from the universities to the private sector.
ARIZONA TECHNOLOGY ENTERPRISES
480-884-1996
www.azte.com
Arizona Technology Enterprises (AzTE) works with
university inventors and industry to transform scienti?c
progress into products and services. AzTE transfers
technologies invented at ASU to the private sector
by mining university research, prosecuting patents,
negotiating licenses and marketing inventions.
NAU VENTURES, LLC
928-523-3711http://nauventures.net
The purpose of NAU Ventures, LLC is to license or
otherwise commercialize the intellectual property owned
or controlled by the Arizona Board of Regents, Northern
Arizona University (NAU) or Northern Arizona University
Foundation (NAUF), and to perform other technology
transfer and intellectual property management services
for university.
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UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA,
OFFICE OF TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER
520-621-5000
www.ott.arizona.edu
The Of?ce of Technology Transfer assists faculty with
intellectual property development, facilitates relationships
with commercial partners and helps to create strategies
to bring inventions and discoveries to market.
The Federal Laboratory Consortium for Technology
Transfer (FLC) is a nationwide network of federal
laboratories that can assist entrepreneurs in
leveraging research and expertise into commercial
technology opportunities. These resources are
available for technology venture partnering, testing,
or enhancing technology portfolios through licensing.
More information can be found at www.federallabs.org.
BUSINESS SERVICES AT
ARIZONA’S PUBLIC RESEARCH UNIVERSITIES
Universities are able to offer a variety of resources and
assistance to businesses of all sizes:
• Expert advice
• Advanced technologies
• Workforce education
• Research collaborations
ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
ASU Venture Catalysthttp://asuventurecatalyst.org
SkySong, the ASU Scottsdale Innovation Centerhttp://skysong.asu.edu
Spirit of Enterprise Centerhttp://wpcarey.asu.edu/spirit/index.cfm
Innovation Advancement Program
www.law.asu.edu/Default.aspx?alias=www.law.asu.edu/tvg
NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY
The Of?ce of the Vice President for Research
www.research.nau.edu
UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
The Of?ce of the Vice President for Research,
Graduate Studies, and Economic Development (OVPR)
www.vpr.arizona.edu
The Of?ce of Research and Contract Analysis (ORCA)
www.orca.arizona.edu
Sponsored Projects Services
www.sps.arizona.edu
ARIZONA RESEARCH CENTERS
Arizona’s technology business community may utilize
research centers and institutions to determine the
viability of their product.
ACCELERATOR AND INCUBATOR PROGRAMS
Consider the bene?ts of business accelerators and
incubators in developing your business concept and
supporting your new business. These services include
of?ce and lab space, coaching, consulting and shared
support services. For-pro?t entities often take an equity
stake in participating companies. Non-pro?ts are often
af?liated with an industry association or public
organization and serve as economic development tools
for these constituencies.
The Arizona Commerce Authority’s entrepreneurial
advancement center, Innovation Forward, captures a
forward-thinking, technology feel that attracts, assists,
and incubates entrepreneurs of every level who are
looking to commercialize their products.
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BRINGING YOUR TECHNOLOGY TO MARKET
(continued)
In addition, the ACA’s Arizona Innovation Challenge
advances innovation and technology commercialization
opportunities in Arizona by supporting early stage
ventures in Arizona’s targeted industries. Companies in
the following technology sectors may apply: advanced
materials, advanced manufacturing, aerospace and
defense, bio and life sciences, clean-tech and renewable
energy, and information technology. Companies receiving
awards will be required to commercialize their technology
and generate revenue within one year of the award. For
more information, visithttp://azinnovationchallenge.com.
The Arizona Innovation Accelerator (AIA) program,
housed in Arizona Commerce Authority’s Business
Development Division, serves as a catalyst to
accelerate the growth of emerging technology
businesses throughout the state.
ASU Venture Catalyst is a business accelerator for
technology entrepreneurs at Arizona State University.
The Catalyst Mentoring Program is designed to provide
ventures with the counsel they need to accelerate their
progress and create success. For more information, visithttp://asuventurecatalyst.org/p or call 480-884-1860.
Northern Arizona Center for Entrepreneurship and
Technology (NACET) fosters business growth and
economic vitality, creating high-quality jobs for the region.
Partnering with a wide variety of non-retail, service,
manufacturing, high technology, science and renewable
energy ?rms, NACET offers a hands-on business
incubation engagement program designed to transform
innovation into viable companies. For more information,
visit www.nacet.org or call 928-213-9234.
The Arizona Center for Innovation (AZCI) is a high-tech
incubator promoting the development of high-technology
companies in Southern Arizona through a disciplined
program of business development. The Center focuses on
companies in six technology areas: aerospace, advanced
composites and materials, information technology,
environmental technology, life sciences, and optics/
photonics. For more information, visit www.azinnovation.com
or call 520-382-3260.
Many organizations in Arizona are dedicated to supporting
the Arizona technology business community. Contemporaries,
suppliers and professional organizations can also provide
numerous and pro?table business leads through
networking. See Chapter 8 for the listing and contact
information of the many chambers of commerce,
associations and organizations in Arizona.
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TECHNOLOGY BUSINESS RESOURCES
Arizona Small Business Development Center
(AZSBDC) Network
480-731-8720
www.azsbdc.net select “Second Stage”
Arizona Technology Council
602-343-8324; 520-829-3440
www.aztechcouncil.org
Flinn Foundation
602-744-6802
www.?inn.org
Gangplank
Email: [email protected]http://gangplankhq.com
Kauffman Foundation
816-932-1000
www.kauffman.org
The ASU Research Park, a 324-acre business and
industrial park, is committed to facilitate technology
transfer through university industry research
relationships, and serves to further its development
as a nationally recognized Carnegie Foundation
Research I Institute. Its mission is to enhance
Arizona’s high value research-based economic
development and to build ASU’s capacity to educate
and advance knowledge. For more information,
visithttp://asuresearchpark.com/index.html or call
480-752-1000.
The University of Arizona Science and Technology
Park, one of the Nation’s premier research and
development facilities, offers a unique environment
dedicated to the transfer of technology from the
laboratory to the marketplace. For more information,
visit www.uatechpark.org or call 520-382-2480.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AND
PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
Intellectual property is a broad term that may include
patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, know-how
and other proprietary concepts.
There are several ways to protect your ideas, such
as using a non-disclosure agreement, patenting your
idea, copyrighting your creative works, choosing and
registering your trademarks, registering complementary
domain names, getting your rights in writing, identifying
con?dential information, using non-compete agreements,
and educating your employees and vendors.
PATENT, TRADEMARK AND COPYRIGHT
A patent is a grant of a property right for an invention
that is novel, useful and non-obvious by the U.S. Patent
and Trademark Of?ce. The basis for U.S. patent laws is
to secure for the inventor the exclusive rights of their
discoveries for a limited period of time.
A trademark includes any word, name, symbol or device
adopted and used by an individual or a corporation
to distinguish its goods or services from the goods or
services of others.
A copyright protects the “works” or expressions of an
author or artist against copying, performance, display,
or use as an underlying work. It protects the form of
expression rather than the subject matter or idea of the
writing.
To ?le for a federal patent or trademark, visit the U.S.
Patent and Trademark Of?ce at www.uspto.gov. The U.S.
Copyright Of?ce registers copyright materials. For more
information, visit www.copyright.gov.
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FUNDING FOR RESEARCH-BASED
TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small
Business Technology Transfer Research (STTR) programs
provide research funding for startup and early-stage
companies or ongoing research at established companies.
To obtain more details and to search for current and
past solicitations, visit www.sbir.gov/solicitations.
The Arizona Commerce Authority’s AZ FAST Grant
Program provides seed money to Arizona-based technology
companies to help initiate the commercialization process.
A full description of the requirements and grant
application is online at www.azcommerce.com select
“Incentives.”
In addition, the ACA has been awarded a grant from the
SBA to prepare Arizona’s small, high-tech companies to
compete more effectively for federal SBIR/STTR Phase I
and II awards and ultimately commercialize their
innovations in Phase III. For more details about the
SBIR/STTR proposal training program, PIII Playbook,
visit the ACA website at www.azcommerce.com select
“Incentives.”
The main objective of the Small Business Capital
Investment Tax Incentive Program (Angel Investment
Program) is to expand early stage investments in targeted
Arizona small businesses. The program accomplishes this
goal by providing tax credits to investors who make capital
investment in small businesses certi?ed by the Arizona
Commerce Authority (ACA). For details on how to
become a “quali?ed investor” or “quali?ed small business,”
visit www.azcommerce.com select “Incentives.”
Arizona Innovation Connection, a weekly email
newsletter, provides state and federal funding
opportunities through entities such as the Arizona
Commerce Authority, Science Foundation Arizona,
the Department of Defense, Department of
Homeland Security, National Science Foundation,
and many other State, National, non-pro?t and
foundation programs. To receive this weekly
newsletter, sign up at www.azcommerce.com.
The Science Foundation Arizona (SFAz) plays a pivotal
role in delivering and managing an investment strategy
in research and innovation for Arizona’s economy to
grow and prosper. SFAz lists a variety of programs for
technology companies on their website www.sfaz.org.
For more information, call 602-682-2800.
FEDERAL GRANTS INFORMATION
Federal Grants
www.grants.gov
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
www.sbir.gov/about/about-sbir
Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR)
www.sbir.gov/about/about-sttr
U.S. Small Business Administration Technology Grants
www.sba.gov under “Loans & Grants,” select “Research
Grants for Small Businesses”
See Chapter 3 for angel investors, venture capital
?rms and more.
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ADVANCING YOUR MANUFACTURING
ARIZONA’S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY
Arizona is host to a diverse and strong manufacturing
industry base with more than 450 manufacturing facilities
in the aerospace and defense, semiconductor, electronics,
and IT industries. The state is also developing strengths in
the bioscience, software and green industries.
ARIZONA COMMERCE AUTHORITY’S
MANUFACTURING EXTENSION PARTNERSHIP (MEP)
The Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) works
with Arizona manufacturers to help them become more
pro?table and globally competitive by providing technical
expertise and hands-on assistance to deliver customized
solutions.
MEP focuses its efforts on delivering measurable results
to manufacturers in ?ve speci?c areas:
• Technology Acceleration
• Continuous Improvement
• Sustainability
• Workforce Development
• Supplier Development
MEP is an af?liate of the National Institute of Standards
and Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership
(NIST MEP) through the U.S. Department of Commerce.
For more information, visit www.azcommerce.com or call
602-845-1200.
As a public/private partnership, the U.S. Department
of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and
Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership
(NIST MEP) provides a variety of services, from
innovation strategies to process improvements to
green manufacturing. For more information, visit
www.nist.gov/mep/about.cfm.
MANUFACTURER’S RESOURCES
Arizona Manufacturers Council
www.azchamber.com/amc
Arizona – Sonora Manufacturing Initiative
www.arizonasonoramnfg.com
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
www.sba.gov/content/contracting-manufacturing
EXPANDING TO
INTERNATIONAL MARKETS
INTERNATIONAL SALES
The International Division of the Arizona Commerce
Authority helps develop international trade opportunities
for Arizona businesses and puts together several
international trade missions a year, encouraging the
participation of Arizona entrepreneurs.
Companies with a desire to expand international should
do their homework before jumping into an unknown
business environment. A company must go into
international ventures with a long-term ?nancial
commitment as well as a sense of its risk-reward factors.
For example, a culturally sensitive business plan provides
for an international road map, and entrepreneurs
establishing foreign ventures must familiarize themselves
with prevailing local laws, industry-speci?c regulations,
and export and import licenses.
Securing state and federal licenses are also important
elements for international trade. International currency
contracts also must be negotiated to allow for payment at
market rates for goods and services provided. Shipping
and insurance costs also will ?gure into the equation.
While the Internet can initially provide assistance in
making contact with prospective foreign markets, it’s
no substitute for the face-to-face contact that should
be considered a requirement before conducting any
business operations abroad.
To attend an ACA trade mission, participate in an
international trade show, or to establish your international
business ties and expand your business, visit the ACA
website at www.azcommerce.com. Under “Services,” select
“International Business Services” or call 602-845-1200.
ARIZONA’S STATE TRADE AND EXPORT PROMOTION
(STEP) PROGRAM
The Arizona Commerce Authority’s STEP Program offers
services, tools, and ?nancial assistance helping your
company enter the international marketplace:
• Export readiness assessment of your small business
• Export education and counseling for your company
so that you can be informed and equipped for
success on the international stage
• Assistance with market selection strategy for your
company so that it explores and enters markets that
are best suited for your product or service
• Assistance to your company with development
of international marketing materials, including >
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SBA offers a number of loan programs designed to
support small business exports. For more details, visit
www.sba.gov/content/export-loan-programs.
SBA’s online Export Business Planner offers a ready-
made, customizable and easily accessible document
that may be updated and referenced continuously as
your business grows. Download the planner from the
SBA website at www.sba.gov/exportbusinessplanner.
U.S. COMMERCIAL SERVICE’S
EXPORT ASSISTANCE CENTER
Arizona’s Export Assistance Center (with three of?ces
in Arizona), part of the U.S. Commercial Service of the
U.S. Department of Commerce, is a federal government
agency dedicated to helping small and medium-sized
Arizona companies enter international markets.
Services include:
• World class market research
• Trade events that promote your product or service
to quali?ed buyers
• Introductions to quali?ed buyers and distributors
• Counseling and advocacy through every step of the
export process
To learn more about how the U.S. Commercial Service can
help your company export, visithttp://export.gov/arizona,
or call 602-640-2513 or 520-670-5540.
Arizona Abroad, a newsletter of the U.S. Export
Assistance Centers of Arizona, provides information
on upcoming trade events and local opportunities in
Arizona.
ARIZONA-MEXICO COMMISSION
The Arizona-Mexico Commission’s vision is to promote
a strong, cooperative relationship with Mexico; facilitate
the movement of goods, services, people, and information
through Mexico and Latin America; and encourage
security and sustainable development within our border
communities. For more information, visit www.azmc.org
or call 602-542-1345.
CANAMEX CORRIDOR
Arizona continues to strategically invest in infrastructure
to increase competitiveness in global trade, create jobs,
and maximize economic potential. The CANAMEX
Corridor is the cornerstone of a dynamic trade shed
linking a consumer market of more than 54 million
people and moving goods, services and information
seamlessly and ef?ciently among Canada, the United
States and Mexico. For more information, contact
[email protected].
brochures and websites (and translation of these
materials, if necessary, into the language of the
target country/region market)
• Assistance to your company in identifying actual,
potential buyers, agents, distributors, end users and
other strategic partners in international markets
• Opportunities for your company to participate
in sector-speci?c trade missions/summits (both
internationally and in the U.S.) that have been
carefully selected, comprehensively prepared,
and professionally led by ACA staff to maximize
opportunities for success
Companies wishing to participate in the Arizona
STEP Program should visit the ACA website at
www.azcommerce.com. Select “Incentives” for more
details.
The State Trade and Promotion Grant Program
is partially funded by the U.S. Small Business
Administration (SBA). SBA’s funding is not an
endorsement of any products, opinions or services.
All SBA funded programs are extended to the public
on a nondiscriminatory basis.
EXPANDING TO INTERNATIONAL MARKETS
(continued)
Find out if your company is ready to export by
taking the Export Readiness Questionnaire athttp://export.gov/begin/assessment.asp.
The Trade Information Center (TIC) works in
conjunction with your export assistance center. TIC
offers a wide range of current industry and trade
information to help exporters of U.S. goods and
services ?nd the information they need to compete
successfully in overseas markets. For more information,
visithttp://export.gov or call 800-872-8723.
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AZ EE 73
GOVER NMENT P R OCUR EMENT OP P ORT UNI T I ES
Federal, state and local governments offer businesses the opportunity to sell billions of dollars worth of products
and services.
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) website
lists the steps to registering as a federal contractor at
www.sba.gov under “Contracting.” SBA ensures that
small businesses have access to long-lasting development
opportunities to receive government contracts.
SBA conducts a free workshop, Selling to the Federal
Government. For schedules and registration, visit
their website at www.sba.gov/az or call 602-745-7208.
>
To succeed in the federal government contracting
process, you ?rst need to:
1. Obtain a DUNS (Data Universal Numbering
System) number,
2. Have an Employer Identi?cation Number (EIN),
3. Identify your NAICS and SIC codes, and
4. Register your business with the System of Award
Management.
The System for Award Management (SAM) is a
Federal Government owned and operated free
website that consolidates the capabilities in CCR/
FedReg, ORCA and EPLS. Future phases of SAM will
add the capabilities of other systems used in federal
procurement and awards processes.
Creating a pro?le in SAM and keeping it current
ensures your ?rm has access to federal contracting
opportunities. To register, visithttps://sam.gov and
click “create an account” or call 866-606-8220.
ADDITIONAL FEDERAL RESOURCES
Online Representations and Certi?cations Application
(ORCA)https://orca.bpn.gov
Government Services Administration (GSA) Schedule
www.gsa.gov/schedules
FedBizOpps (FBO)
www.fbo.gov.
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STATE OF ARIZONA PROCUREMENT
To familiarize yourself with the State of Arizona’s
procurement process, visit the State Procurement Of?ce
(SPO) website athttp://spo.az.gov, and select “Contractor
Resources.” Here you will ?nd information on how to do
business with the state, bidding opportunities and
instructions on how to use ProcureAZ, the state’s
eProcurement system.
You must register your company in ProcureAZ to freely
participate in the State of Arizona’s bidding and
contracting opportunities. To register online, visithttps://procure.az.gov/bso. For further information,
contact the ProcureAZ Help Desk at 602-542-7600.
Arizona State University
Small Business & Diversity Program
480-965-6778http://cfo.asu.edu/purchasing-diversity
Northern Arizona University
Contracting and Purchasing Services
928-523-4557http://home.nau.edu/purchasing
University of Arizona
Small Business Utilization Program
520-621-2888
www.pacs.arizona.edu/supplier_diversity
LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT
The State Purchasing Cooperative is a program of the
Arizona Department of Administration and the State
Procurement Of?ce, whereby members may participate in
cooperative procurement opportunities through the use of
designated Arizona State contracts and related services.
Currently, there are more than 545 members of the State
Purchasing Cooperative. The program is comprised of
many political subdivisions (counties, cities, school districts,
etc.). In addition to the State Purchasing Cooperative,
there are a number of other purchasing cooperatives
active throughout Arizona. For more information, visit the
State Procurement Of?ce website athttp://spo.az.gov
and select “Cooperative Procurement.”
In addition, vendors are encouraged to approach the
purchasing departments of each county and city/town
to present their products and/or services. See Chapter 5
for the listing of county/city/town websites and contact
numbers.
MARICOPA COUNTY
Maricopa County encourages all interested
suppliers to register to do business with the county’s
e-procurement application, Bidsync. To register, visit
www.maricopa.gov/materials or call 602-506-3967.
PIMA COUNTY
The Pima County Procurement Department is
dedicated to conserving public funds and conducting
its procurement process in a fair, open and competitive
manner. Visit www.pima.gov/procure/venreg.htm to
register your company or contact Vendor Relations at
520-740-3807 or 520-740-8260.
It’s Small Business Enterprise (SBE) program offers
incentives to small businesses interested in doing
business with Pima County. For more information
on the SBE program, visit www.pima.gov/procure/sbe
or call 520-740-3296.
CONTRACTING RESOURCES
The following organizations provide an understanding of
government contracting and the know-how to obtain and
successfully perform federal, state and local government
contracts.
American Indian Procurement
Technical Assistance Centers (AIPTAC)
928-871-7377
www.ncaied.org/mcs/uida-consulting-group
Arizona Diversity Business Development Center
602-300-2682
www.azbizopps.org
Arizona Procurement Technical Assistance Center
(PTAC)
480-731-8720
www.azsbdc.net/special-programs/procurement
BidSource
602-495-6492
www.bidsource.com
City of Phoenix, Vendor Help Center
602-262-7181http://phoenix.gov/business/contract/vendor/index.html
Grand Canyon Minority Supplier Development Council
(GCMSDC)
602-495-9950
www.gcmsdc.org
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GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT OPPORTUBITIES (continued)
Phoenix MBDA Business Center
602-248-0007; 800-428-7299http://phoenixmbdacenter.com
Women’s Business Enterprise Council West
480-969-9232
www.wbec-west.org
CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS
Many government agencies require that some percentage
of their procurements be set aside for small businesses.
Certifying your business will help you successfully
compete for government contracts.
FEDERAL CERTIFICATION
The federal government sets aside certain contract
bid opportunities exclusively for small businesses. As
part of the registration process, you must register your
business with the federal government’s SAM, the
primary database of vendors doing business with the
federal government. In SAM, you may self-certify as a
small business, but you must meet the federal
government’s de?nition of a small business. For more
information, visit www.sba.gov, and under “Contracting,”
select “Small Business Certi?cations & Audiences.”
SBA conducts a free workshop, Selling to the Federal
Government. It includes understanding certi?cation
programs such as 8(a) and HUBZone. For schedules
and registration, visit their website at www.sba.gov/az
or call 602-745-7208.
The 8(a) Program is a business development program
created to help small, disadvantaged businesses
compete in the marketplace. To apply for 8(a)
certi?cation, visit www.sba.gov/8a or call 602-745-7200.
The Historically Underutilized Business Zones
(HUBZone) program helps small businesses in urban
and rural communities gain preferential access to
federal procurement opportunities. To apply for the
HUBZone Certi?cation, visit www.sba.gov/hubzone.
ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION’S
DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM
(DBE)
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has
established a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)
program in accordance with the regulations of the
U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). The DBE
program ensures a “level playing ?eld” and fosters equal
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opportunity in all ADOT assisted contracts that include
highway, transit and airport programs.
The ADOT Supportive Services Program is designed to
assist quali?ed small businesses to become certi?ed as
DBE ?rms. Once certi?ed, the program strives to assist
those ?rms to become self-suf?cient in their respective
industry. Visit ADOT DBE Supportive Services blog at
www.adotdbe.com for upcoming events and latest updates.
Arizona Department of Transportation
Business Engagement and Compliance Of?ce,
Supportive Services Program
1135 N. 22nd Avenue, 2nd Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-712-7761
www.azdot.gov/Inside_ADOT/CRO/DBEP.asp
CITY OF PHOENIX’S SMALL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE
(SBE) AND DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE
(DBE) CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS
The city of Phoenix extends an equal economic
opportunity to compete for business for all small
businesses interested in participating in SBE and
federally assisted DBE contracts including airport
concessions and airport, highway, and transit-related
projects.
The Equal Opportunity Department (EOD) Business
Relations Division administers the SBE Certi?cation and
the DBE Certi?cation Programs. EOD offers certi?cation
services at no cost. Workshops are offered monthly and
staff is available to assist you in the application process.
City of Phoenix
Equal Opportunity Department (EOD)
251 W. Washington Street, 7th Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85003
602-262-6790http://phoenix.gov/eod/programs/index.html
>
AZ EE 75
76 AZ EE
THIRD-PARTY CERTIFICATION
Grand Canyon Minority Supplier
Development Councilhttp://gcmsdc.org/certi?cation/application
National Women Business Owners Corporation
(NWBOC)
www.nwboc.org/Basic_Info
U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce
www.uswcc.org/certi?cation.aspx
Women’s Business Enterprise Council-West
www.wbec-west.com, and select “Certi?cation”
CITY OF TUCSON’S SMALL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE
(SBE) PROGRAM AND DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS
ENTERPRISE (DBE) PROGRAM
The city of Tucson provides opportunities and incentives
to certi?ed ?rms located in Pima County on projects
and contracts administered by the city’s procurement
department.
The general information and certi?cation applications
for SBE and DBE may be obtained from the Of?ce of
Equal Opportunity Programs (OEOP) website. Many
small businesses may also qualify as a DBE. Only one
application and one set of supporting documentation is
required, even when multiple categories are identi?ed.
City of Tucson
Of?ce of Equal Opportunity Programs (OEOP)
201 N. Stone, Third Floor, Tucson, AZ 85726
520-791-4593http://cms3.tucsonaz.gov/oeop
The Arizona UCP has been established to facilitate
statewide DBE certi?cation. The UCP eliminates
the need for DBE applicant businesses to obtain
certi?cation from multiple agencies, and provides
reciprocity within Arizona. The Arizona Department
of Transportation, City of Phoenix, and the City of
Tucson are members of the Arizona UCP. The of?cial
UCP DBE database includes DBE ?rms certi?ed by
these three agencies at www.azdbe.com/DBE_search.aspx.
If you are certi?ed with the Arizona Department of
Transportation, City of Phoenix or City of Tucson as a
Small (SBE) or Disadvantaged (DBE) Business Enterprise,
you will automatically be listed in the Arizona Steps
Up Directory. This free online directory is an electronic
resource for state procurement and public purchasing
personnel to locate certi?ed small and disadvantaged
businesses. For the listing of all certi?ed businesses,
visithttp://az.gov/app/azstepsup/home.xhtml.
GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT OPPORTUBITIES (continued)
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NE T WOR KI NG I N
T HE BUSI NE SS COMMUNI T Y
78 • Business Affliations
» Networking in the Business Community 78
» Chambers of Commerce 79
» Minority and Women Business-Owed Organizations 84
85 • Associations
While every effort has been made to ensure the reliability of the information presented in this publication, the Arizona Commerce Authority cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information due to
the fact that much of the information is created by external sources. Changes/updates brought to the attention of the Arizona Commerce Authority and verified will be corrected in future editions.
8
Busi ness Af f i l i at i ons and Associ at i ons
AZ EE 77
Arizona Small Business Association (ASBA) is the largest trade association in Arizona representing 11,000+ member businesses and more than
half a million employees in all 15 counties. ASBA creates opportunities for small businesses to make money, save money and have a voice in public policy.
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78 AZ EE
B U S I N E S S A F F I L I A T I O N S
NETWORKING IN THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY
Joining chambers of commerce, associations and organizations, and actively participating in them is a great way to
market your business. As a member, you can network with other members to promote your business.
From seminars and luncheons to business expos and
various business committees, there’s absolutely no
excuse for not being able to meet new contacts, referrals
and people who can help you with ideas and additional
ways to grow your business.
The following pages of this section provide contact
information of the many chambers of commerce,
associations and organizations in Arizona.
STEPS TO SUCCESSFUL NETWORKING
1. Choose the right setting. Make sure that the
purpose of the function is to promote business.
2. Go prepared. Always carry your business cards.
Be ready with a “3-minute commercial” describing
your key business bene?ts.
3. Don’t overwhelm contacts. Don’t bore people
with excessive details about your company when
you ?rst meet them. Save the speci?cs for a
second meeting, unless your new acquaintance
asks to know more.
BUSINESS ADVOCACY
Many Arizona membership organizations are the voice
of business and the guardians of the business climate.
They ensure that lawmakers understand small business
concerns with regard to government policies and legislation.
Business advocacy creates a stronger and more
sustainable business community. The result is a better
community to attract, retain and expand business.
BUSINESS ADVOCACY
Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED)
602-240-2233 www.aaed.com
Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI)
602-248-9172 www.azchamber.com
National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB)
602-263-7690 www.n?b.com/arizona
U.S. Small Business Administration Of?ce of Advocacy
202-205-6533 www.sba.gov/advo
AZ EE 79
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE
Contact your local chamber to learn more about their
organization and the multitude of educational courses,
events and bene?t programs that can be offered to you.
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE ALLIANCES
Alliances serve as the public policy advocacy body on
issues that impact the business and economic climate
of the areas served by their participating chambers of
commerce members.
East Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance
www.evcca.org
Southern Arizona Chamber of Commerce Alliance
www.southernarizonachambers.com
West Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliancehttp://wvcca.com
Ajo
Ajo District Chamber of Commerce
520-387-7742 www.ajochamber.com
Alpine
Alpine Area Chamber of Commerce
928-339-4656 www.alpinearizona.com
Apache Junction
Apache Junction Chamber of Commerce
480-982-3141 www.ajchamber.com
Arizona City
Arizona City Chamber of Commerce
520-466-5141
Avondale
Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce
623-932-2260 www.southwestvalleychamber.org
Benson
Benson-San Pedro Valley Chamber of Commerce
520-586-2842 www.bensonchamberaz.com
Bisbee
Bisbee Chamber of Commerce
520-432-5421 www.bisbeearizona.com
Black Canyon City
Black Canyon City Chamber of Commerce
623-374-9797
Bouse
Bouse Chamber of Commerce
928-851-2509http://bousechamber.org
Brenda
McMullen Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-859-3846 www.azoutback.com/mcmullen.htm
Buckeye
Buckeye Valley Chamber of Commerce
623-386-2727 www.buckeyevalleychamber.org
Bullhead City
Bullhead Area Chamber of Commerce
928-754-4121 www.bullheadchamber.com
Camp Verde
Camp Verde Chamber of Commerce
928-567-9294 www.visitcampverde.com
Carefree-Cave Creek
Carefree-Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce
480-488-3381 www.carefreecavecreek.org
Casa Grande
Greater Casa Grande Chamber of Commerce
520-836-2125; 800-916-1515 www.casagrandechamber.org
Casas Adobes
Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce
520-297-2191 www.orovalleychamber.com
Catalina/Catalina Foothills
Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce
520-297-2191 www.orovalleychamber.com
Chandler
Chandler Chamber of Commerce
480-963-4571; 800-963-4571 www.chandlerchamber.com
Chandler
Ocotillo Chamber of Commerce
602-381-2584 www.OcotilloChamber.com
Chino Valley
Chino Valley Area Chamber of Commerce
928-636-2493 www.chinovalley.org
Chloride
Chloride Chamber of Commerce
928-565-2204 www.chloridearizona.com
Christopher Creek
Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-474-4515; 800-672-9766 www.rimcountrychamber.com
Clarkdale
Clarkdale Chamber of Commerce
928-634-9438 www.clarkdalechamber.com
Cochise
Pearce-Sunsites Chamber of Commerce
520-826-3535 www.pearcesunsiteschamber.org
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CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE (continued)
Coolidge
Coolidge Chamber of Commerce
520-723-3009 www.coolidgechamber.org
Cordes Junction and Cordes Lakes
Arizona Highway 69 Chamber of Commerce
928-632-4355 www.arizonahighway69chamber.org
Cottonwood
Cottonwood Chamber of Commerce
928-634-7593 www.cottonwoodchamberaz.org
Dewey-Humboldt
Arizona Highway 69 Chamber of Commerce
928-632-4355 www.arizonahighway69chamber.org
Dolan Springs
Dolan Springs Chamber of Commerce
928-767-4473 www.dolanspringschamberofcommerce.com
Douglas
Douglas Chamber of Commerce
520-364-2477 www.douglasazchamber.org
Dragoon
Pearce-Sunsites Chamber of Commerce
520-826-3535 www.pearcesunsiteschamber.org
Eagar
Springerville-Eagar Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-333-2123 www.springerville-eagarchamber.com
Ehrenberg
Ehrenberg Chamber of Commerce
928-923-9661 www.coloradoriverinfo.com/ehrenberg/chamber
El Mirage
Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce
623-583-0692 www.surpriseregionalchamber.com
Elfrida
Pearce-Sunsites Chamber of Commerce
520-826-3535 www.pearcesunsiteschamber.org
Elgin
Sonoita-Elgin Chamber of Commerce
520-455-5498 www.sonoitaelginchamber.org
Eloy
Eloy Chamber of Commerce
520-466-3411 www.eloychamber.com
Flagstaff
Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce
928-774-4505 www.?agstaffchamber.com
Florence
Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce
520-868-9433http://?orenceazchamber.com
Ft. Mohave
Mohave Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-768-2777 www.mohavevalleychamber.com
Fountain Hills
Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce
480-837-1654 www.fountainhillschamber.com
Gila Bend
Gila Bend Chamber of Commerce
928-683-2002 www.gilabendazchamber.com
Gilbert
Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
480-892-0056 www.gilbertaz.com
Glendale
Glendale Chamber of Commerce
623-937-4754; 800-437-8669 www.glendaleazchamber.org
Globe
Globe-Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-425-4495; 800-804-5623 www.globemiamichamber.com
Golden Valley
Golden Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-565-3311 www.goldenvalleychamber.org
Goldroad
Oatman-Goldroad Chamber of Commerce
928-768-6222 www.oatmangoldroad.org
Goodyear
Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce
623-932-2260 www.southwestvalleychamber.org
Graham County
Graham County Chamber of Commerce
928-428-2511; 888-837-1841 www.graham-chamber.com
Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce & Visitor’s Bureau
888-472-2696 www.grandcanyonvisitorbureau.com
Green Valley
Green Valley Sahuarita Chamber of Commerce
and Visitor Center
520-625-7575; 800-858-5872 www.greenvalleychamber.com
Greer
Pinetop-Lakeside Chamber of Commerce
928-367-4290; 800-573-4031 www.pinetoplakesidechamber.com
Hayden
Copper Basin Chamber of Commerce
520-363-7607 www.copperbasinaz.com
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AZ EE 81
Heber
Heber-Overgaard Chamber of Commerce
928-535-5777 www.heberovergaard.org
Holbrook
Holbrook Chamber of Commerce
928-524-6558; 800-524-2459 www.gotouraz.com/HolbrookF3.html
Hope
McMullen Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-859-3846 www.azoutback.com/mcmullen.htm
Jerome
Jerome Chamber of Commerce
928-634-2900 www.jeromechamber.com
Joseph City
Joseph City Chamber of Commerce
928-288-3475
Kearny
Copper Basin Chamber of Commerce
520-363-7607 www.copperbasinaz.com
Kingman
Kingman Area Chamber of Commerce
928-753-6253 www.kingmanchamber.org
Lake Havasu City
Lake Havasu Area Chamber of Commerce
928-855-4115 www.havasuchamber.com
Litch?eld Park
Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce
623-932-2260 www.southwestvalleychamber.org
Marana
Marana Chamber of Commerce
520-682-4314 www.maranachamber.com
Maricopa
Maricopa Chamber of Commerce
520-568-9573 www.maricopachamber.com
Mayer
Arizona Highway 69 Chamber of Commerce
928-632-4355 www.arizonahighway69chamber.org
Mesa
Mesa Chamber of Commerce
480-969-1307 www.mesachamber.org
Miami
Globe-Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-425-4495; 800-804-5623 www.globemiamichamber.com
Nogales
Nogales-Santa Cruz County Chamber of Commerce
520-287-3685 www.thenogaleschamber.com
Nogales
Nogales Community Development Corporation
520-397-9219 www.nogalescdc.com
Oatman
Oatman-Goldroad Chamber of Commerce
928-768-6222 www.oatmangoldroad.org
Oro Valley
Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce
520-297-2191 www.orovalleychamber.com
Overgaard
Heber-Overgaard Chamber of Commerce
928-535-5777 www.heberovergaard.org
Page
Page-Lake Powell Chamber of Commerce
928-645-2741 www.pagechamber.com
Parker
Parker Area Chamber of Commerce
928-669-2174 www.parkerareachamberofcommerce.com
Payson
Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-474-4515; 800-672-9766 www.rimcountrychamber.com
Pearce
Pearce-Sunsites Chamber of Commerce
520-826-3535 www.pearcesunsiteschamber.org
Peoria
Peoria Chamber of Commerce
623-979-3601 www.peoriachamber.com
Phoenix
Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce
480-753-7676 www.ahwatukeechamber.com
Phoenix
Arcadia Chamber of Commerce
602-381-2584 www.arcadiachamber.org
Phoenix
Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce
602-495-2195 www.phoenixchamber.com
Phoenix
Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce at Anthem –
North Gate
602-495-6483 www.phoenixchamber.com
Phoenix
Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce at Deer Valley
602-495-6483 www.phoenixchamber.com
>
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CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE (continued)
Phoenix
Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce
at South Mountain/Laveen
602-495-6469 www.phoenixchamber.com
Pima
Graham County Chamber of Commerce
928-428-2511; 888-837-1841 www.graham-chamber.com
Pine
Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-474-4515; 800-672-9766 www.rimcountrychamber.com
Pinetop-Lakeside
Pinetop-Lakeside Chamber of Commerce
928-367-4290; 800-573-4031 www.pinetoplakesidechamber.com
Prescott
Prescott Chamber of Commerce
928-445-2000; 800-266-7534 www.prescott.org
Prescott Valley
Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-772-8857 www.pvchamber.org
Quartzsite
Quartzsite Business Chamber of Commerce
928-927-9321 www.quartzsitebusinesschamber.com
Richland
Pearce-Sunsites Chamber of Commerce
520-826-3535 www.pearcesunsiteschamber.org
Rio Rico
Rio Rico Chamber of Commerce
520-377-9336 www.rioricochamberofcommerce.com
Roosevelt
Globe-Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-425-4495; 800-804-5623 www.globemiamichamber.com
SaddleBrooke
Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce
520-297-2191 www.orovalleychamber.com
Safford
Graham County Chamber of Commerce
928-428-2511; 888-837-1841 www.graham-chamber.com
Sahuarita
Green Valley Sahuarita Chamber of Commerce and
Visitor Center
520-625-7575; 800-858-5872 www.greenvalleychamber.com
Salome
McMullen Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-859-3846 www.azoutback.com/mcmullen.htm
Santa Cruz County
Nogales-Santa Cruz County Chamber of Commerce
520-287-3685 www.thenogaleschamber.com
Scottsdale
North Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce
480-889-8987http://northscottsdalechamber.org
Scottsdale
Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce
480-355-2700 www.scottsdalechamber.com
Sedona-Oak Creek Canyon
Sedona Chamber of Commerce
928-282-7722; 800-288-7336 www.sedonachamber.com
Seligman
Seligman Chamber of Commerce
928-273-8140 www.seligmanazchamber.com
Show Low
Show Low Chamber of Commerce
928-537-2326; 888-746-9569
www.showlowchamberofcommerce.com
Sierra Vista
Greater Sierra Vista Area Chamber of Commerce
520-458-6940 www.sierravistachamber.org
Snow?ake
Snow?ake-Taylor Chamber of Commerce
928-536-4331 www.snow?aketaylorchamber.org
Sonoita
Sonoita-Elgin Chamber of Commerce
520-455-5498 www.sonoitaelginchamber.org
Spring Valley
Arizona Highway 69 Chamber of Commerce
928-632-4355 www.arizonahighway69chamber.org
Springerville
Springerville-Eagar Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-333-2123 www.springerville-eagarchamber.com
Stan?eld
Maricopa Chamber of Commerce
520-568-9573 www.maricopachamber.com
Star Valley
Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-474-4515; 800-672-9766 www.rimcountrychamber.com
Strawberry
Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-474-4515; 800-672-9766 www.rimcountrychamber.com
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Sun City/Sun City West
Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce
623-583-0692 www.surpriseregionalchamber.com
Sunizona
Pearce-Sunsites Chamber of Commerce
520-826-3535 www.pearcesunsiteschamber.org
Sunsites
Pearce-Sunsites Chamber of Commerce
520-826-3535 www.pearcesunsiteschamber.org
Superior
Superior Chamber of Commerce
520-689-0200 www.superiorazchamber.net
Surprise
Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce
623-583-0692 www.surpriseregionalchamber.com
Taylor
Snow?ake-Taylor Chamber of Commerce
928-536-4331 www.snow?aketaylorchamber.org
Tempe
Tempe Chamber of Commerce
480-967-7891 www.tempechamber.org
Thatcher
Graham County Chamber of Commerce
928-428-2511; 888-837-1841 www.graham-chamber.com
Tolleson
Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce
623-932-2260 www.southwestvalleychamber.org
Tombstone
Tombstone Chamber of Commerce
888-457-3929http://tombstonechamber.com
Tonto Basin
Globe-Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce
928-425-4495; 800-804-5623 www.globemiamichamber.com
Tubac
Tubac Chamber of Commerce
520-398-2704 www.tubacaz.com
Tucson
Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce
520-297-2191 www.orovalleychamber.com
Tucson
Tucson Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce
520-792-1212 www.tucsonchamber.org
Valle
Valle Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce
928-635-1000
Vicksburg
McMullen Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-859-3846 www.azoutback.com/mcmullen.htm
Wenden
McMullen Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-859-3846 www.azoutback.com/mcmullen.htm
Wickenburg
Wickenburg Chamber of Commerce
928-684-5479; 800-942-5242 www.wickenburgchamber.com
Willcox
Willcox Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture
520-384-2995; 800-200-2272 www.willcoxchamber.com
Williams-Grand Canyon
Williams-Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce
928-635-1418; 800-863-0546 www.williamschamber.org
Winkelman
Copper Basin Chamber of Commerce
520-363-7607 www.copperbasinaz.com
Winslow
Winslow Chamber of Commerce
928-289-2434 www.winslowarizona.org
Yarnell
Yarnell-Peeples Valley Chamber of Commerce
928-427-6582 www.y-pvchamber.com
Youngtown
Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce
623-583-0692 www.surpriseregionalchamber.com
Yuma
Yuma County Chamber of Commerce
928-782-2567 www.yumachamber.org
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84 AZ EE
MINORITY AND WOMEN BUSINESS-OWNED ORGANIZATIONS
The following list is designed to assist you in your efforts to contact minority and women business-owned
organizations. However, this list may not include all minority and women business organizations. For more information
on additional organizations, visit your public library business resource center or look in the Yellow Pages under
“Organizations and Associations.”
American Indian Chamber of Commerce
480-545-1412 www.aiccaz.org
Arizona Business & Professional Women
Email: [email protected] www.bpwaz.org
Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
602-279-1800 www.azhcc.com
Arizona Hispanic Women Business Alliance
602-279-1800 www.azhcc.com/women_business_alliance.php
Arizona Women’s Education and Employment, Inc.
602-223-4333 www.awee.org
Arizona Veterans Chamber of Commerce
Email: [email protected]http://azvetschamber.com
Asian Chamber of Commerce
602-371-8452 www.asianchamber.org
Associated Minority Contractors of America
602-495-0026 www.amcaaz.com
Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Arizona
www.cccarizona.org
eWomen Network, Arizona Chapter
623-256-4486; 520-977-0214 www.ewomennetwork.com
Grand Canyon Minority Supplier Development Council
602-495-9950 www.gcmsdc.org
Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce
602-307-5200 www.phoenixblackchamber.com
Greater Phoenix Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce
602-266-5055 www.gpglcc.org
Greater Phoenix Urban League
Small Business Assistance Center
602-254-5611 www.gphxul.org
Hispanic Women Corporation
602-954-7995 www.hispanicwomen.org
Impact for Enterprising Women
623-872-3804 www.impactforenterprisingwomen.org
National Association of Women Business Owners
Greater Tucson Chapter
520-326-2926 www.nawbotucson.org
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National Association of Women Business Owners
Phoenix Metro Chapter
480-289-5768 www.nawbophx.org
National Association of Women Business Owners
Sedona-Verde Valley Chapter
Email: [email protected] www.nawbosvv.org
National Association of Women in Construction
Phoenix Chapter
800-552-3506 www.nawic.org
Organization of Women in International Trade, Phoenix
602-361-7339 www.owitphoenix.org
Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce of Arizona
480-650-0075http://paccaz.org
Tucson GLBT Chamber of Commerce
520-615-6436 www.tucsonglbtchamber.org
Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
520-620-0005 www.tucsonhispanicchamber.org
Tucson Southern Arizona Black Chamber of Commerce
520-623-0099 www.tsabcc.org
United Latino Business Coalition (ULBC)
888-788-8522 www.unitedlbc.org
U.S. Veterans Chamber of Commerce
Email: [email protected] www.usvcc.com
U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce
888-418-7922 www.uswcc.org
West Valley Women
602-263-3589 www.westvalleywomen.org
Women of Scottsdale
480-391-6585 www.womenofscottsdale.org
Women’s Business Enterprise Council – West
480-969-9232 www.wbec-west.org
The associations listed below represent only a few of the non-pro?t groups providing business memberships. For more
information on other organizations, web search or look in the Yellow Pages under “Associations.”
A S S O C I A T I O N S
The Encyclopedia of Associations database provides
addresses and descriptions of professional societies,
trade associations, labor unions, cultural and religious
organizations, fan clubs and other groups of all types.
Visit your public library business resource center to
use the database.
To ?nd your local library, visit the website at
www.lib.az.us/LibDir.
American Advertising Federation, Tucson
520-326-1060 www.aaftucson.org
American Council of Engineering Companies of Arizona
602-995-2187 www.acecaz.org
American Institute of Architects, Arizona
602-252-4200; 520-323-2191; 800-367-2781
www.aia-arizona.org
>
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ASSOCIATIONS (continued)
American Massage Therapy Association, Arizona Chapter
www.azamta.org
American Society of Home Inspectors, Arizona Chapter
Email: [email protected] www.azashi.com
American Society of Interior Designers
Arizona North Chapter
602-569-8916http://asidaznorth.org
American Subcontractors Association of Arizona
602-274-8979 www.asa-az.org
Arizona Alarm Association
480-831-1318http://azalarms.org
Arizona Association of Bed & Breakfasts Inns
480-262-7720 www.arizona-bed-breakfast.com
Arizona Association of Chiropractic
602-246-0664 www.azchiropractic.org
Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED)
602-240-2233 www.aaed.com
Arizona Association for Home Care (AAHC)
480-491-0540 www.azhomecare.org
Arizona Association of Licensed Private Investigators
480-535-6620 www.aalpi.org
Arizona Association of Mortgage Professionals
623-972-6180 www.azamp.org
Arizona Association of Realtors
602-248-7787; 800-426-7274 www.aaronline.com
Arizona Automobile Dealers Association
602-468-0888; 800-678-3875 www.AADA.com
Arizona Bankers Association
602-258-1200 www.azbankers.org
Arizona Bioindustry Association
480-779-8101 www.azbio.org
Arizona Broadcasters Association
602-252-4833 www.azbroadcasters.org
Arizona Builders Alliance
602-274-8222; 520-881-7930 www.azbuilders.org
Arizona Business Brokers Association
480-215-7757 www.azbba.org
Arizona Business Travel Association
Email: [email protected] www.azbta.org/about.htm
Arizona Construction Association
602-246-8627; 800-467-8627 www.azca.com
Arizona Guide Association
www.arizonaguides.org
Arizona Health Care Association
602-265-5331http://azhca.org
Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association
602-445-4300 www.azhha.org
Arizona Hotel and Lodging Association
602-604-0729; 800-707-3921 www.azhla.com
Arizona Independent Automobile Dealers Association
602-246-1498; 800-352-4232 www.aiada.net
Arizona Internet Professionals Association
Email: [email protected] www.azipa.org
Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association
602-626-7091 www.azlca.com
Arizona Limousine Association
Email: [email protected]http://azlimousineassociation.org
Arizona Medical Association
602-246-8901; 800-482-3480 www.azmedassn.org
Arizona Newspapers Association
602-261-7655 www.ananews.com
Arizona Nursery Association
480-966-1610 www.azna.org
Arizona Optics Industry Association
520-721-0500 www.aoia.org
Arizona Paralegal Association
www.azparalegal.org
Arizona Physical Therapy Association
602-569-9101; 800-264-APTA (2782) www.aptaaz.org
Arizona Process Servers Association
602-476-1737 www.arizonaprocessservers.org
Arizona Real Estate Investors Association
480-990-7092 www.azreia.org
Arizona Restaurant Association
602-307-9134; 520-791-9106; 888-661-3463
www.azrestaurant.org
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Arizona Retailers’ Association
480-833-0009 www.azretailers.com
Arizona Small Business Association (ASBA)
602-306-4000; 520-327-0222 www.asba.com
Arizona Small Business Association (ASBA) helps
members grow their business with valuable connections
and timely, relevant programs. Networking opportunities
include the monthly Fast & Curious Speed
Networking™, quarterly meetings and mixers, and
signature events.
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Arizona Society of Association Executives
602-266-0133 www.azsae.com
Arizona Society of Certi?ed Public Accountants
602-252-4144; 888-237-0700 www.ascpa.com
Arizona Society of Practicing Accountants
480-782-8872; 800-393-0647 www.aztaxandaccounting.org
Arizona State Auctioneers Association
602-377-1820 www.azauctioneers.org
Arizona State Florists Association
Email: membership@az?orists.org www.az?orists.org
Arizona Tax Research Association
602-253-9121 www.arizonatax.org
Arizona Technology Council
602-343-8324; 520-829-3440 www.aztechcouncil.org
TechConnect is Arizona’s technology magazine. The
bimonthly magazine explores the region’s up-to-the-
minute leading companies, under-the-radar change
agents, and the latest industry trends and issues
propelling the state into high-tech player status.
To subscribe, visit the Arizona Technology Council
website at www.aztechcouncil.org.
Arizona Tooling and Machining Association
602-242-8826 www.arizonatooling.org
Arizona Trucking Association
602-850-6000 www.arizonatrucking.com
Arizona Wine Growers Association
623-236-2338 www.arizonawine.org
Arizona Women Lawyers Association
602-218-5273 www.awla-state.org
Associated General Contractors, Arizona Chapter
602-252-3926 www.azagc.org
Associated Locksmiths of America, Grand Canyon Chapter
800-532-2562 www.aloa.org
Association of Bridal Consultants
480-967-4495 www.bridalassn.com
Association for Supportive Child Care
480-829-0500; 800-535-4599 www.asccaz.org
Automotive Service Association of Arizona
602-544-2600 www.asaaz.org
Executives’ Association of Greater Phoenix
602-241-0864 www.eagp.org
Greater Arizona e-Learning Associationhttp://gazel.org
GrowAZhttp://growaz.org
Home Builders Association of Central Arizona
602-274-6545 www.hbaca.org
Institute of Management Consultants, Arizona Chapter
Email: [email protected] www.imcaz.org
Inventor’s Association of Arizona
Email: [email protected] www.azinventors.org
Local First Arizona
602-956-0909 www.local?rstaz.com
Local First Arizona (LFA) is a non-pro?t organization
working to strengthen communities and local
economies through supporting, maintaining and
celebrating locally owned businesses throughout the
state of Arizona. Utilize it’s online directory to ?nd
hundreds of local member businesses.
Maricopa County Bar Association
602-257-4200 www.maricopabar.org
Maricopa County Medical Society
602-252-2015 www.medical-society.com
Meeting Professionals International, Arizona Sunbelt Chapter
602-277-1494 www.azmpi.org
NAIOP Arizona
The Commercial Real Estate Development Association
602-230-1645 www.naiopaz.org
>
88 AZ EE
ASSOCIATIONS (continued)
National Electrical Contractors Association, Arizona Chapter
602-263-0111 www.azneca.org
National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB)
602-263-7690 www.n?b.com/arizona
National Speakers Association
480-968-2552 www.nsaspeaker.org
Pima County Bar Association
520-623-8258 www.pimacountybar.org
Pima County Medical Society
520-795-7985 www.pimamedicalsociety.org
Printing Industries Association Inc. of Arizona
602-265-7742 www.piaz.org
Professional Beauty Association
480-281-0424; 800-468-2274 www.probeauty.org
State Bar of Arizona
602-252-4804; 520-623-9944; 866-482-9227 www.azbar.org
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The Trade & Professional Associations Directory combines a comprehensive list of the state’s organizations,
representing a wide range of associations from air conditioning contractors to the Arizona Tourism Alliance. You
may order the directory by calling the Arizona Capitol Times at 602-258-7026.
“At the Corporation Commission, we give a copy of the
Entrepreneur’s Edge to customers who are starting new LLCs
or Corporations. Customers are happy to get something in
writing that helps them understand the process and provides
them with some resources for learning how to set up and run a
business. The book answers many of their questions.”
Christy Parker, Customer Service Unit Supervisor
Arizona Corporation Commission Corporations Division
“Customers visit our of?ce in their journey in becoming
entrepreneurs and may not have all of the information they
need to make informative decisions. The AZEE booklet
provides them with the answers to questions they did not
anticipate and helps to better prepare them to proceed.”
Joann Arellano, Director BSD
Arizona Secretary Of State
“I really appreciate the book and all the information it holds – I
do the business licensing for the City of Goodyear and almost
every day there is at least one new business owner who has no
idea where to turn for information – it’s been a great help for
me to give them the Entrepreneur’s Edge.”
Tina Daniels, Small Business Advocate
City of Goodyear
“Having this publication is a great bene?t to us as it outlines
the state level programs and types of assistance out there for
small businesses, and does so in a concise, straightforward
way that is easy for entrepreneurs to utilize. It has allowed
the City of Maricopa to save staff time and costs in creating a
duplicative document to serve these needs.”
Danielle Casey, CEcD, EDFP, Economic Development, Director
City of Maricopa
“Great one-stop-shopping journal for small business owners
to use to locate resources. Replaces hundreds of individual
brochures, and the journal is well organized. We give these
out to all startup clients.”
Tracy Mancuso, Northland Pioneer College SBDC
“The best thing about the guide is that it exists! At the
library, it has been so helpful to have a one-stop
resource that can ?ll so many needs with our customers
who are often new to the entire world of starting and
operating a business. Particularly the contacts, business
structure outline, and focus on agencies that help in the
various situations (as an employer, business name, etc.).”
Sandy Rizzo, Librarian III, Business Specialist, MLS,
Mesa Public Library, Red Mountain Branch
“At the Arizona Department of Revenue, we pass out the Edge
to all new business licensees that we process. Many times we
provide them a copy to read while we input their application
information into our system. We frequently get comments
on how valuable it is to small business owners. Others, who
overhear the comments, request a copy, as well. Thank you
for publishing such a valuable business tool.”
Bob Meist, Arizona Department of Revenue
“We ?nd Arizona Entrepreneur’s Edge to be an amazing
resource for providing the public with everything they need
to know about starting and operating a business in Arizona.
When I hand it out, people usually stop with all their questions
and realize they have something in their hand, they need to
take home and study. Thanks for providing it!”
David Jakim, Records Clerk, City Clerk Of?ce
City of Sedona
“What our of?ce likes about the guide that it full of good
resources, explanations regarding different types of businesses,
registrations, tax and licensing. It is just a perfect tool for
anyone who is just starting out and has a lot of questions.”
Siria Quintero, Tax & License Specialist
City of Mesa Tax and Licensing Of?ce
“The city of Phoenix routinely take the “Entrepreneur’s Edge”
with us to business presentations for distribution as well as
direct individuals to the Arizona Commerce Authority’s
website for the electronic version of the guide. This information
is valuable for both startups and existing businesses, as it
helps them save time toward obtaining accurate business
assistance information.”
Kedrick Ellison, CEcD, MBA
City of Phoenix Community and Economic Development
“One of my favorite parts is the section on ?nancial statements
with the templates that business owners can use to plug in
their numbers. I also like the section on business structure,
licensing and taxes. These are areas where we seem to get a
lot of questions.”
Lorrie Pena, Program Assistant
Central Arizona College SBDC
Appr eci at i on
Small Business Services
www.azcommerce.com/smallbiz 602
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845
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1295 800
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542
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5684
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