September 8, 2026

OneAZ Community Foundation, AZHCC Expand Capital Readiness Opportunities for Arizona Entrepreneurs

Backed by a $125,000 OneAZ Community Foundation Legacy Grant and led by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (AZHCC), the six-week program equips Arizona microbusiness owners with the technical assistance and resources needed to grow and access capital.

September 8, 2026 By Katherine C.

PHOENIX (September 3, 2026) – The OneAZ Community Foundation and Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (AZHCC) today announced the launch of the next cohort of the Capital Readiness Program (CRP), a six-week program that empowers Arizona microbusiness owners with the tools, training, resources and connections needed to access capital and accelerate growth. Funded through a $125,000 Legacy Grant over three years awarded by the OneAZ Community Foundation earlier this year, the program reflects a shared commitment to creating greater economic opportunity for small business owners across Arizona. 

"Small businesses are the backbone of Arizona's economy, and we're proud to support entrepreneurs as they take the next step in growing their businesses," said Robert Raygoza, Executive Director of the OneAZ Community Foundation. "Through our Legacy Grant partnership with the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, we're helping business owners build the skills, confidence and connections needed to access capital and create long-term success. This program is an investment in Arizona entrepreneurs and the communities they serve." 

 “I believe this program will transform entrepreneurs into profitable business owners that will create sustainable jobs and a strong workforce”, said Kaaren-Lyn Graves, Executive Director of the AZHCC’s Capital Readiness Program. 

The Capital Readiness Program is a six-week, cohort-based initiative designed to help microbusinesses with annual revenues under $50,000 build a stronger foundation for growth. Through a partnership between OneAZ and the AZHCC, participants receive access to resources and support focused on: 

  • Building business capacity and operational readiness 
  • Improving access to capital and financial resources 
  • Expanding professional networks and mentorship opportunities 
  • Developing strategies for sustainable business growth 

As a trusted financial partner, OneAZ Credit Union co-facilitates program workshops alongside the AZHCC, equipping entrepreneurs with the tools and confidence needed to move their businesses forward. 

The program will culminate in a pitch-style graduation event hosted at OneAZ Credit Union’s headquarters, where participants will present their businesses, share key learnings and celebrate their progress. Graduates will receive a laptop and seed funding to support their continued growth and success. Together, OneAZ and AZHCC are investing in Arizona entrepreneurs and strengthening the small businesses that drive economic opportunity and community prosperity throughout the state.

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About OneAZ Credit Union

OneAZ Credit Union is the trusted financial partner to 250,000 Arizonans, with 26 branches and $4.4 billion in assets. Serving Arizona for 75 years, OneAZ exists to improve the lives of members, associates and the communities it serves. OneAZ has been recognized as one of the best financial institutions in the state by Forbes and Newsweek, named among the state’s Most Admired Companies, and honored as the nation’s #1 Healthiest Workplace by Healthiest Employers. Headquartered in Phoenix and founded in 1951, OneAZ is one of Arizona’s largest credit unions. Unlock your potential at OneAZcu.com.

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