May 2024

I am delighted to share an exciting development in Mesa’s entrepreneurial landscape: Mesa Business Builder (MBB) @ The Studios opens May 23. This state-of-the-art facility, located at 59 East 1st Street in Downtown Mesa, promises to be a cornerstone of innovation and collaboration for our thriving business community.

MBB @ The Studios is more than just a venue; it is a testament to Mesa’s commitment to fostering growth and prosperity for businesses of all sizes. Spearheaded by the City of Mesa Office of Economic Development, this initiative aims to provide entrepreneurs, businesses, and organizations with the resources they need to succeed in our dynamic business landscape.

At MBB @ The Studios, entrepreneurs will have access to cutting-edge technology tools, including a computer lab, a podcast studio, gaming/app development zones, and an AR/VR studio, empowering them to bring their ideas to life like never before. Additionally, our modern, multi-use venue offers free training, collaboration space, and networking opportunities, creating a culture of learning and innovation.

MBB @ The Studios is also a solution for employers or industry associations needing technology or a location to train or upskill prospective employees or incumbent workers. The facility is contemporary and offers quality meeting space for interviews or product presentations, too. All free!

Please stop by to tour and celebrate the grand opening of MBB @ The Studios on May 23, 2024, 3-5:30 PM. This event will be an excellent opportunity to explore our facilities, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and learn more about the FREE resources available to you. Together, let’s build a stronger, more resilient Mesa.

Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to seeing you at the open house!

Learn more about The Studios at MBBtheStudios.com.

Unlock the Power of Job Connect Mesa: Your Ultimate Recruitment Partner

Attention Employers and Hiring Managers! Prepare to revolutionize your recruitment efforts with the introduction of Job Connect Mesa (JobConnectMesa.com), the ultimate game-changer. Powered by Pipeline AZ, Job Connect Mesa transcends the conventional job board, emerging as your FREE premier recruitment and talent development ally.

Discover the unparalleled benefits of Job Connect Mesa during an exclusive unveiling session. In just 45 minutes, participants will:

• Forge Better Connections: Job Connect seamlessly links jobseekers with local resources and employers, streamlining the process for employers to engage with potential hires and teams dedicated to their success.

• Enjoy Simplicity and Ease: Designed with user-friendliness as a top priority, Job Connect Mesa ensures a straightforward experience for all users.

• Experience an All-in-One Solution: Job Connect Mesa unites local businesses, educators, and non-profit partners under one unified platform. From recruitment to training and career planning, everything you need is conveniently accessible in a single location.

Ready to explore the possibilities? Select a date and time for a demonstration and onboarding session with your hiring managers:

• Monday, May 19, 11 AM
• Thursday, May 23, 10 AM
• Tuesday, May 28, 3 PM
• Thursday, May 30, 10 AM

Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your recruitment strategy with Job Connect Mesa. Reserve your spot today by reaching out to Bryan.Smith@mesaaz.gov.

Kelley Keffer, Mesa Office of Economic Development project manager, recognized as a Top 100 Influencer in Local Government

The City of Mesa Office of Economic Development congratulates Kelley Keffer who has been recognized as a Top 100 Influencer in Local Government by Engaging Leaders in Local Government (ELGL). Every year, ELGL honors outstanding professionals who serve towns, cities, counties, and districts and provide a positive impact on the broader community of local government professionals. 

The recognition honors people who make a difference in their communities and the larger local government network, and who demonstrate ELGL values of joy, creativity, connection, dependability, and equity through their work and public activities.

ELGL is a professional association with members who work for and with local governments throughout the United States. ELGL is focused on all levels of local government, from analysts to mayors, librarians to planners, and everyone in between. ELGL’s mission is to engage the brightest minds in local government by providing education and networking opportunities to public servants. elgl.org/top-influencers-2024 

Mesa Business Builder launches podcast series to help Mesa’s small businesses

Mesa Business Builder, a program of the City of Mesa Office of Economic Development, has launched the podcast series “Know Before You Grow” targeting entrepreneurs and small businesses looking for more information on how to do business in Mesa.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and Mesa’s Office of Economic Development has enhanced our focus on helping start-ups and small companies grow,” stated Mesa Economic Development Director Jaye O’Donnell. “This podcast series is a direct response to the challenges individuals face when opening or growing a business. Our new podcast series provides invaluable insights, tips, and strategies to help entrepreneurs and small business owners navigate starting and growing a successful venture.”

Expert guests share their wisdom and real-world experiences to equip small businesses with the knowledge they need to succeed. Subscribe now and stay tuned each week for new episodes at https://lnkd.in/gntYB69p.

For questions and comments, contact Kelley Keffer at Kelley.Keffer@mesaaz.gov. 

You’re Invited: The Presentation Academy for Business with Tim Koegel

Most people are not natural presenters; it takes time to get comfortable presenting to groups and leading meetings. Elevate your presentation game and master the art of communication at The Presentation Academy for Business, presented by the City of Mesa Office of Economic Development and Mesa Business Builder. 

Join us on June 4, 2024, at The Post, located at 26 North Macdonald, Mesa, AZ 85201, for an evening of transformative learning with renowned presentation coach Tim Koegel.

Tim Koegel, a New York Times and Wall Street Journal best-selling author, brings more than 20 years of experience coaching top executives and business leaders worldwide. At The Presentation Academy, Koegel will share insights on delivering engaging, dynamic sales presentations, meetings, keynote addresses, and inspirational talks.

The event schedule is as follows:

4:00 PM – Check-in and Networking, Complimentary Food and Beverage
5:00 PM – Presentation by Tim Koegel
6:00 PM – Networking
6:30 PM – Conclusion

Seating is limited and the program is FREE, so register now to secure your spot at this exclusive event: Event Registration Link.

Tim Koegel’s impressive clientele includes business giants such as Cisco Systems, Xerox, ExxonMobil, Forbes, Jones Lang LaSalle, and Deloitte. With his expertise, he has conducted CEO boot camps nationally and helped prepare executives for IPO roadshows and funding presentations.

You’re Invited: Next Level Workforce Development Forum by Mark Perna

Join us for an evening of insight and innovation at the “Next Level Workforce Development Forum” sponsored by the City of Mesa, Mesa Chamber of Commerce, SRP, and Google Fiber. Mark your calendars for Thursday, June 20, 2024, at the Mesa Convention Center, Building B, starting at 4 PM. Discover fresh approaches to education, training, and workforce development and their profound impact on our future at the community level.

Mark Perna, Founder and CEO of TFS Results with more than 25 years of research on generational dynamics, is a renowned expert in understanding what drives each generation. As a keynote speaker, he delivers more than 70 dynamic presentations annually across North America, inspiring audiences with actionable strategies to unlock passion, purpose, and performance.

Perna’s bestselling book, “Answering Why: Unleashing Passion, Purpose, and Performance in Younger Generations,” has earned critical acclaim, winning eight national awards, including the prestigious Nautilus Book Award. Come and learn about the ‘Education with Purpose & Employment with Passion (EWP)” movement, fostering collaboration among educators, employers, economic developers, and community leaders.

Following the forum, enjoy complimentary food and refreshments, networking, and further discussion.

Registration required. Reserve your spot today!