April 2024

Cover Story

Capital Ideas: How Different Types of Funding Can Grow Business

Prominently visible on buildings around town are names that demonstrate the strength and depth of the financial sector here — serving a business community equally strong and varied. We connected with select members of that sector to present an … [More]

Features

Let’s Make Layoffs Rare Again

The layoff news just keeps on coming. Many of the job cuts being reported are in the tech sector, but the hatchet is also hitting industries from air travel to healthcare to music. Nobody loves mass layoffs, but their increasing frequency seems to … [More]

Implementing Vacation Time Enhances Business Operations

One crucial element of running a restaurant is valuing our employees’ work-life balance. At Dolce Vita, I have made the decision to close every Monday and for a week each summer to give my staff a day of rest as well as a true vacation. Many business … [More]

Thriving in the Fast Lane: Essential Healthy Habits for Young Professionals to Beat Hustle Culture

The hustle-and-grind culture is widespread, especially in the United States, and while one needs to work to get ahead, a constant go-go-go schedule isn’t healthy for anyone. In the long run, no matter how good someone is at what they do, the … [More]

What’s In and What’s Out: Workplace Trends for a Changing Workforce

Hybrid is here to stay. As more companies relocate to the Phoenix metro area, focus will be less on how many people come into the office and more on how the office can support individual needs. To evolve with changing demands and earn people’s … [More]

Wildflower’s Nourishing Impact

In the bustling landscape of corporate ventures, Wildflower emerges as a beacon of responsibility, rooted in a commitment to serve not only great food but also the broader community. Founded in November 1996, Wildflower, a family-owned business, has … [More]

Nurturing Leadership: Strategies for Building Leaders within Your Organization

"Great leaders don't create followers, they create more leaders." —Tom Peters Within the bustling corridors of modern organizations, the cultivation of effective leadership isn't just desirable — it's imperative. Great leaders aren't born; they … [More]

Roundtable

Catering Company Succeeds with Environmental Consciousness

More than 30 years in the hospitality business in Arizona means Steve Short has seen and experienced a lot, including the global pandemic, micro … [More]

Economy

Forecasting: Four Things We’re Watching for Phoenix Businesses in 2024

Right now, Phoenix businesses are navigating a unique landscape that is growing with a swelling population and booming industries while facing … [More]

Legal

Legal Implications of the Shipping Disruptions in the Red Sea

Houthi rebel attacks on cargo ships in the Red Sea have caused major supply chain disruptions since the attacks began in November 2023. To date, there … [More]

Nonprofit

Strong Culture of Philanthropy = Financial Success

You know you have a strong culture of philanthropy when the athletic director says his top priority is funding the science building. Or when local … [More]

From the Top

Levi Conlow: Leading the E-Bike Industry

The Lectric eBikes XP 3.0 is the most popular e-bike in America. Based in Phoenix, the company has sold more than 400,000 e-bikes in less than five years, and sells the most popular cargo e-bike and … [More]

By The Numbers

Boredom: What Force at Work?

The issue of workplace boredom is more pervasive than many might realize. According to Forbes, boredom at work is not just a minor inconvenience; it's a serious problem that can lead to depression, … [More]

Startups

Greenwood Brewing Taps the Female Beer Market

Greenwood Brewing is a woman-owned and -operated microbrewery with a taproom, brewery and beer garden located in Downtown Phoenix. The company makes more than 20 products in its Downtown Phoenix … [More]

Hillside Candle Makes Scents of Memories

Hillside Candle is a candle company focused on fragrance, memories and family. “We offer a carefully curated selection of luxurious scents created from the knowledge my dad gained from his time as … [More]

Healthcare

From Crisis to Care: How Arizona Businesses Can Lead with Timely Access to Mental Healthcare

The U.S. is facing an increasingly urgent mental health crisis that’s affecting nearly every aspect of daily life — including the workplace. While mental health issues have been escalating for several decades, the crisis has reached epidemic … [More]

Technology

AI Can Advance Workplace Gender Equity

It's essential to approach artificial intelligence with a critical eye, recognizing its potential to both challenge and reinforce societal biases. “As we integrate AI into the workplace, continuous efforts must be made to make sure these technologies … [More]

Semi Insights

Supporting Disrupted ASIC Programs amidst Foundry Consolidations

The microelectronics supply chain has seen its share of challenges in recent years, while efforts to ensure its stability in the U.S. are unprecedented. One way that companies ensure semiconductor supply continuity is by developing their own … [More]

$8.5 Billion Boost: Arizona’s Role in the Semiconductor Surge

In a significant move aimed at revitalizing America's technological prowess and manufacturing might, the Biden-Harris Administration, alongside Intel Corporation, has unveiled a preliminary agreement that could redefine the landscape of semiconductor … [More]

CRE

Expanding Boundaries into the West Valley

All eyes are on the West Valley and for good reason. Communities like Surprise, Glendale and Buckeye continue to attract development and media buzz. From talk of smart cities to bringing more industry to the area, growth continues to climb. In fact, … [More]

Managing Common Plumbing Issues within Commercial Buildings

Commercial buildings are active areas where numerous people rely on efficient plumbing systems for daily operations, from washing hands to using the bathroom. However, like any complex system, the plumbing in the building is susceptible to many … [More]

Briefs

A New Buzz on Coffee

Better Buzz Coffee Roasters chose Phoenix to establish its first outpost from its home territory of San Diego. “It’s the most asked-for location,” Amanda Cameron, VP of marketing, shared as she helped ready the first of several planned Phoenix-area … [More]

AZ Power Wash Pros Introduces Eco-Friendly Technology

In the last decade, the power washing industry has witnessed remarkable technological advancements that have not only enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of cleaning processes but also significantly contributed to environmental … [More]

WHPDA and Gila River Indian Community Break Ground on New Convenience Store

At the end of 2023, the Wild Horse Pass Development Authority and the Gila River Indian Community broke ground on Sacaton Market, which will feature a convenience store and fuel station on the southeast corner of South Ocotillo Drive and Bluebird … [More]