Celebrating Maricopa’s Rising Stars: Small Business Impact Awards

By Ava Marie LaMonica, Editor

In a vibrant economy like Maricopa County’s, small businesses are the lifeblood of innovation, economic growth, and community engagement. To recognize and celebrate the contributions of these dynamic enterprises, Arizona Ascent Magazine is proud to announce the launch of the inaugural Arizona Ascent Small Business Impact Awards.

Shining a Spotlight on Local Achievement

The Small Business Impact Awards aim to honor the small businesses that are making a big difference in Maricopa County. By highlighting companies that have achieved remarkable growth, employed creative business models, and demonstrated a strong commitment to their communities, these awards will celebrate the achievements of entrepreneurs who are not only scaling their businesses but also impacting the lives of those around them. From tech startups and retail pioneers to community-driven enterprises, the awards will represent a diverse array of industries that contribute to the county’s flourishing business landscape.

This year, the selection committee will be looking at a set of specific criteria to identify Maricopa’s most promising businesses. 

Among the key factors considered will be:

• Business Growth and Scalability: Companies that have experienced significant growth in revenue, market presence, or workforce size.
• Innovation in Products or Services: Businesses bringing fresh and unique ideas to the market that set them apart in their industries.
• Community Engagement and Impact: Enterprises making a positive difference in their communities through outreach, charity, or direct involvement.
• Entrepreneurial Leadership and Vision: Leaders demonstrating the ambition, foresight, and strategic thinking that help elevate their businesses and the community.
• Economic Contributions to Maricopa County: Companies that have generated jobs, stimulated local spending, or contributed to the region’s economic stability.

Join Us in Celebrating Maricopa’s Entrepreneurs

Nominations for the 2025 Small Business Impact Awards are open until December 21, 2024, and we invite our readers, community members, and business leaders to nominate outstanding small businesses that embody the values of innovation and positive impact. To be eligible, businesses should have been either established or seen significant growth during 2024. The selection committee, which includes respected business leaders, community stakeholders, and members of Arizona Ascent’s editorial team, will review each nomination carefully. Winners will be contacted ahead of the awards and will be prominently featured in the March/April 2025 issue of Arizona Ascent Magazine.

This special issue will include inspiring success stories from award-winning companies and highlight how these entrepreneurs are innovating and engaging with their communities in meaningful ways. Our readers can look forward to an inside look at the best and brightest that Maricopa County’s business scene has to offer, from tech and retail to local services and more.

Help Recognize Maricopa’s Impact Makers

This is the first year of the Small Business Impact Awards, and Arizona Ascent Magazine is thrilled to bring the community together to celebrate the remarkable contributions of our local entrepreneurs. Through these awards, we hope to give a well-deserved spotlight to those who are propelling Maricopa County forward, inspiring future generations of business leaders, and fostering a culture of resilience and innovation. If you know a small business that has made a lasting impression on Maricopa County, now is the time to share their story. Nominate a business today and be part of recognizing the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our community forward.

Nominate A Business Today

For questions, reach out to us at info@arizonaascent.com. We can’t wait to celebrate Maricopa County’s incredible small businesses with you.