Members of the Arizona State Legislature,
The Chamber Alliance of Southern Arizona (CASA) proudly stands in support of the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA). Our Alliance represents a diverse array of industries and hundreds of thousands of hardworking Arizonans. Today, we come together to endorse the ACA’s reauthorization, recognizing its pivotal role in fostering a thriving and dynamic economic environment in Arizona.
The Arizona Commerce Authority is the State’s tool in achieving economic excellence, staffed by a team of seasoned professionals who excel in streamlining processes and convening jurisdictional partners for swift and efficient outcomes. At the heart of its success are several cornerstone programs:
- Working with new and existing businesses to access critical tax relief, building a more conducive environment for business growth and financial stability.
- Talent and training are elevated through the Arizona Advanced Technology Network, ensuring a workforce adept in cutting-edge technologies and skills.
- The spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship is vigorously supported by the Arizona Innovation Challenge, which propels forward-thinking ideas into tangible successes.
- Small businesses, the backbone of our economy, benefit immensely from initiatives like the Small Business Boot Camp, designed to nurture and scale their operations.
- Manufacturing, a key economic driver, is bolstered by sales tax exemptions, a policy that not only encourages industry growth but also enhances competitive advantage.
- The ACA’s commitment to rural economic development, through its targeted rural webinar series, ensures that prosperity reaches every corner of our state, enriching local economies and communities.
- The Arizona State Trade Expansion Program stands as a testament to the ACA’s vision of fostering a globally competitive economy, opening doors for Arizona businesses in international markets.
Together, these programs result in greater opportunity, innovation, and growth, solidifying Arizona’s position as a leader in economic development and business success.
Additionally, the ACA’s contributions are evident in the impressive milestones achieved:
- Completion of 1,209 projects
- Creation of 272,803 projected new jobs with an impressive average wage of $60,808
- A total of $115.694 billion in projected capital investments
These achievements have catalyzed an estimated $11.3 billion in tax revenue and a remarkable $442.3 billion in economic output. The ACA’s efforts have not only reshaped our job market but also significantly elevated Arizona’s position in national workforce growth.
Under the ACA’s guidance, Arizona has evolved from a construction-focused economy to a diversified industrial powerhouse, excelling in advanced manufacturing sectors such as mining technology, aerospace and defense and semiconductors. This evolution not only stimulates our economy but also enhances national security by minimizing reliance on international supply chains.
The Arizona Commerce Authority has not only met its initial objectives but has exceeded them, emerging as a national example in job attraction and economic development. Its role in sculpting Arizona’s economic future is irreplaceable, and its reauthorization is vital for ongoing progress.
We strongly advocate for the continued support of the Arizona Commerce Authority, a cornerstone of our state’s economic vitality and innovation.
Respectfully,
Graham County Chamber of Commerce
Green Valley/Sahuarita Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center
Greater Vail Area Chamber of Commerce
Marana Chamber of Commerce
Nogales-Santa Cruz County Chamber of Commerce
Oro Valley Chamber
Sierra Vista Area Chamber of Commerce
Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Tucson LGBT Chamber of Commerce
Tucson Metro Chamber