Arizona Commerce Authority

We're excited to share that Sandra Watson was recognized among the recipients of the 2026 Ellis Island Medals of Honor last month! The award, recognized by both houses of Congress, celebrates individuals whose achievements and service reflect the spirit of our nation, honoring contributions across business, education, public service, philanthropy, healthcare, media, sports, and national defense.

A full weekend of collaboration in Kaohsiung, Taiwan!
Our Arizona delegation began with visits to the Asia New Bay Area Innovation Hub, Smart Transportation center, National Sun Yet-sen University and Kao‑Ho Hospital, gaining insight into the region’s rapidly expanding innovation and healthcare ecosystems.
In addition, we were proud to join the Sister City Signing Ceremony between Kaohsiung and City of Tucson. The MOU formalizes a growing partnership rooted in shared strengths including innovation, manufacturing, education, and research.
We wrapped our time in Kaohsiung highlighting Arizona’s strong business environment at the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs and connecting with leaders at Advanced Semiconductor Engineering.

Our team spent the day in Kumamoto City, Japan, connecting with local startups, hosting an Arizona Business Seminar, and touring Japan Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing to highlight opportunities across advanced industries.

Thank you to Vice Governor Takeuchi and our partners for the warm welcome and meaningful discussions.

We’re proud to join partners from across the country to officially designate the NNME Southwest regional node. Convened by Arizona Commerce Authority, NNME Southwest brings together 47 members across five states to build a regionally anchored, nationally scalable workforce system.

Partners will align curriculum with employer needs, coordinate career pathways across the semiconductor value chain, and expand access to hands‑on training.

Thank you to all our partners.

We’re excited to kick off a ten-day Asia Trade Mission focused on strengthening ties across key sectors such as semiconductors, innovation, and advanced manufacturing.

The delegation will begin in Tokyo and Kumamoto Prefecture in Japan before heading to Seoul, South Korea. For the final leg, the ACA will be joined by 20 Arizona partners in Taipei and Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, for meetings with government, business, academic, and innovation leaders.

This Memorial Day we honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

Arizona is powering the future of medical innovation — from biotech and medtech to world‑class health care. With leaders like Mayo Clinic, Banner Health, and a thriving startup ecosystem, the state is home to one of the nation’s fastest‑growing bioscience hubs. 🧬🌵

NEW: Arizona wins fourth straight Business Facilities Economic Development Award, recognizing the state’s international leadership with record exports and nation-leading foreign direct investment.
https://www.azcommerce.com/news-events/news/2026/5/economic-development-awards/

Arizona’s future will be built by today’s graduates. Across our universities, community colleges, trade programs, and apprenticeships, the next generation of talent is stepping forward, ready to lead Arizona into its next chapter. Congratulations to the Class of 2026 — your impact starts now.🎓