March 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.

Angie Herrera joins Mesa Office of Economic Development as a Marketing Communications Specialist

In March 2024, the City of Mesa Office of Economic Development hired Angie Herrera to serve as a Marketing Communications Specialist. 

Angie, a Northern Nevada native, ventured to Arizona with a solid foundation in marketing demonstrating her expertise across diverse industries, ranging from healthcare to sports. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from the University of Nevada, Reno, and an MBA from Western Governors University.

Throughout her career, Angie has played a pivotal role in managing all facets of marketing campaigns, showcasing her strategic skills and creative flair.

Now, as she embarks on a new chapter, Angie is eager to bring her talents and passions to the City of Mesa promoting small business development, entrepreneurship, business licensing, and Mesa’s Asian District. BIO 

Mesa College Promise Program expands to eligible adult learners

As program enrollment begins, Mesa College Promise is expanding to cover two years of tuition and fees at Mesa Community College (MCC) for eligible Mesa residents who are 24 years or older. The successful program Mesa Mayor John Giles launched in 2021 as a public and private partnership with MCC and the corporate sector eliminates one of the top attainment barriers for adult learners, allowing many in the community to upskill or reskill at no cost. Applications to the Mesa College Promise program are being accepted online for the 2024-2025 academic year for eligible 2024 Mesa high school graduates and newly eligible adults.

With the expansion announcement, Mesa College Promise is now open to any resident of Mesa who meets the following requirements:

• Demonstrating financial need through FAFSA completion and supporting documentation
• Earned a high school diploma or GED
• Not previously attended college or some college/no degree
• Enrolling at MCC in a minimum of 6 credits as a degree or certificate-seeking student in an eligible program of study

One of the first Promise Programs in the state, Mesa College Promise welcomed the first group of 88 students to MCC in the fall 2021 semester, 201 students in fall 2022 and approximately 200 Promise students in fall 2023. More than 70% of the students are the first in their families to attend college.

Mesa College Promise scholars greatly appreciate the financial support made possible through the generosity of individual and organizational philanthropic contributions. Additionally, students value the services participation in the program affords them access to ensure their academic success.

Mesa College Promise supports the Achieve60 statewide attainment goal that at least 60% of all Arizona adults have a high-value workforce certification or college degree by 2030. A recent statewide survey shows 86% of residents support that goal.

More than $760,000 of government and business private match funds have been donated to Mesa College Promise since its inception. Google has donated $100,000 for the program’s expansion to include newly eligible adults.

Full details about Mesa College Promise and the application link are available at mesacc.edu/mesa-promise.

Visit Mesa launches new podcast with Mesa native, Academy Award Winner Troy Kotsur 

Visit Mesa, the destination marketing organization for Arizona’s third-largest city, launched its new podcast entitled City Limitless® – The Podcast on February 1. The first episode featured Troy Kotsur, who is born and raised in Mesa, and is the first Deaf male actor to win an Academy Award.

The interview-style, audio- and video-recorded podcast focuses on insightful discussions and entertaining stories that define Mesa’s city boundaries and beyond. Each episode focuses on a different aspect of the City Limitless experience – arts, culture, events, entertainment, food, outdoor adventure, and more. The podcast is the latest venture by Visit Mesa to further enhance the destination’s storytelling platforms.

Episode one features the inspiring story of Troy Kotsur who grew up in Mesa, Arizona, and faced a challenge not many encounter: navigating life as a Deaf individual. He turned this hurdle into a springboard, leading him to become the first Deaf male actor to win an Academy Award for his supporting role in the film “CODA.” Kotsur returned to Mesa for the screening of his heartfelt short film, “To My Father,” at the 2023 Mesa Film Festival, which depicts his journey to winning the Oscar and his father’s inspiring influence on him, despite a tragic accident. The interview explores Kotsur’s experience growing up Deaf, the profound impact of his father losing the ability to sign with him, and his ascent to the ultimate level of success in Hollywood.

“It’s extremely special screening this film in my hometown,” said Troy Kotsur in the first episode of City Limitless – The Podcast. “I am here to celebrate, and there are so many community members that know about my history and my father’s history. This is where I grew up.”

Episodes two and three are also out now. The second episode highlights Arizona Film and Digital Media Director Matthew Earl Jones while episode three recaps the largest craft beverage and food festival held in Mesa. Future episodes will spotlight Professional Bull Riding World Finalist Judd Mortensen, coverage of the first TikTok music event “In the Mix” and more.

City Limitless – The Podcast is available on all major podcast streaming services, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, as well as Visit Mesa’s YouTube channel and website. VisitMesa.com