Arizona’s most innovative entrepreneurs, companies, and community leaders are stepping into the spotlight. The 2026 Arizona Ascent Business Impact Awards honor those shaping the state’s future—trailblazers transforming industries, uplifting communities, and redefining what it means to build a business in Arizona.
“These leaders represent the energy, creativity, and resilience driving Arizona’s economy forward,” said Jennifer Conrad, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Arizona Ascent. “Each winner is building something meaningful—advancing technology, strengthening communities, and creating lasting economic impact.”
More Than a Magazine — A Platform for Arizona’s Innovators
Arizona Ascent isn’t just a publication. It’s a platform uniting business, real estate, and community, spotlighting leaders shaping Arizona’s future and positioning their work within the state’s broader growth momentum.
Our stories don’t just inform—they elevate credibility, expand visibility, and connect leaders to the ecosystem that makes success possible. If you’re building Arizona’s future, this is where your story belongs: seen, recognized, and amplified.
Meet the 2026 Arizona Ascent Business Impact Awards Winners
Emerging Founder of the Year
Raja Sekhar Malireddy — LiveBreak
Raja Sekhar Malireddy is redefining local journalism through LiveBreak, a digital platform that engages communities via interactive storytelling. LiveBreak empowers independent journalists, amplifies local voices, and has quickly become a go-to source for news and community connection across Arizona.
Innovative Business of the Year
Obotiq— Nisarg Jadav & Natalie Levi
Obotiq is transforming healthcare through AI-powered robotics, improving operational efficiency and allowing staff to focus on patient care. Founders Jadav and Levi are pioneering the future of healthcare operations with intelligent automation that delivers tangible results.
Community Impact Award
HUUB
HUUB strengthens Arizona’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing founders access to mentorship, funding, and resources. The platform has helped hundreds of local entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses, fostering a more connected, collaborative startup community.
Legacy Family Business Award
Desert Dimensions — Joseph Maggiore
Desert Dimensions embodies longevity and excellence in Arizona’s business landscape. Under Joseph Maggiore’s leadership, the company continues to thrive while maintaining deep community ties, showcasing the lasting impact of family-run businesses.
Rural Impact Leader
Moonshot — Scott and Kiersten Hathcock
Moonshot empowers entrepreneurs in rural Arizona through statewide programs, accelerators, and the Rural Arizona Pitch Tour. Scott Hathcock’s leadership ensures founders outside urban centers gain access to mentorship, resources, and opportunities to bring their innovations to market.
Entrepreneur of the Year
Joyann Hernandez — Sunflower Environmental Compliance Group
Joyann Hernandez is recognized for building a company that combines business success with environmental stewardship and workforce development. Sunflower Environmental Compliance Group demonstrates how entrepreneurship can drive both economic and community impact simultaneously.
Honoring Arizona’s Innovators During Arizona Tech Week
The winners will be formally celebrated during a special event on April 9, 2026, part of Arizona Tech Week, hosted by Arizona Ascent and sponsored by University of Silicon Valley.
This isn’t a typical panel—it’s an experience-driven celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship, and AI exploration. Attendees can expect:
- Networking with founders, innovators, and executives
- Roundtable discussions with industry leaders
- Open-mic Q&A sessions with actionable takeaways
- Live art and sculpture displays, DJs, and an interactive tech gallery
- An exclusive after-party celebrating Arizona’s brightest business minds
Speakers include:
- Robert Vera, Chief Experience & Partnership Officer, University of Silicon Valley
- Mahesh Vinayagam, CEO & Founder, qBotica Inc
- Anisia Corona, CEO & Founder, DxTx
- Clay Richardson, CEO & Founder, Startup Central
- Rob Andersen, CEO & Founder, Grape ID™
The event creates a judgment-free zone where successes are dissected, failures are celebrated, and lessons become actionable insights. For the award winners, it’s a chance to shine, share their stories, and inspire the next wave of Arizona innovators.
Come for the recognition. Stay for the experience. Leave inspired by Arizona’s thriving business and tech community.
