February 2025
Letter From The Editor
Arizona’s rise to 6th place in the 2024 U-Haul Growth Index highlights its growing appeal for businesses and residents. This momentum brings both opportunities and challenges, and at Arizona Ascent Magazine, we are committed to exploring the factors shaping our state’s future and the individuals driving change.
One significant force behind Arizona’s growth is the impact of Opportunity Zones. These designated areas are fostering investment and revitalizing communities. I spoke with Tommy Dobczyk, development director of the Buckeye OZ Fund, about how these programs are transforming neighborhoods and creating new pathways for economic development.
Arizona’s creative industry is also making waves. While many filmmakers traditionally head to Los Angeles or New York, more are discovering the advantages of working here. Filmmaker Quintana, drawn by the state’s tax incentives and deep talent pool, sees Arizona as an emerging hub for productions of all sizes. With its diverse landscapes and skilled workforce, Arizona is proving to be an attractive destination for creative professionals.
These stories reflect a common theme: Arizona is a place of growth, innovation, and opportunity. Whether in business, real estate, or the arts, the state continues to rise as a center of success. As always, Arizona Ascent Magazine remains dedicated to sharing the insights that matter most and celebrating the people shaping our future.
-Jaki Underwood, Editor-in-Chief
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Featured Article
Arizona’s Economic Balancing Act: Growth, Challenges, and Future Potential
Arizona is emerging as one of the nation’s most attractive destinations for both businesses and residents, evidenced by its rise to 6th place in the 2024 U-Haul Growth Index, up from 8th in 2023 (U-Haul, 2025). This shift reflects a growing influx of newcomers, driven by the state’s economic advantages, but also underscores the complex dynamics that come with rapid expansion.