Quote Of The Day

"Passion, creativity, and resilience are the most crucial skills in business. If you've got those, you're ready to embark on the journey." - Jo Malone

Many women entrepreneurs in Phoenix associate debt with stress and uncertainty, often avoiding it entirely or postponing business growth.

Yet, local mission-driven lenders show that strategic debt, when used wisely, can unlock new levels of business freedom.

The difference between “good” and “bad” debt is crucial.

Structured, affordable loans tied directly to business growth—such as expanding operations or upgrading equipment—are considered good debt.

By contrast, high-interest debt without a clear plan can quickly become a burden.

Hasmik Chilingaryan, owner of Kabob Grill N Go, is one example of how support from groups like Prestamos Women’s Business Center turned financial uncertainty into opportunity during the pandemic.

Experts advise borrowing specifically for growth, partnering with inclusive lenders, and being open about business challenges to secure better terms.

With trusted organizations such as Prestamos WBC and Growth Partners Arizona, Phoenix women are reframing debt as a path toward business stability and expansion.

Tip of The Day

Know your worth and don't be afraid to negotiate for what you deserve in business deals and partnerships.

Your skills, ideas, and time are valuable, so be confident in advocating for yourself.

Interesting Facts

Phoenix stands out nationally for women-owned businesses, but many local women of color still struggle to secure the funding they need.

Nearly 35% of Latina entrepreneurs cite poor credit as their biggest challenge, much higher than among white women, and most women of color report consistently receiving less capital than they request.

Despite these hurdles, business leaders like Nik Fields of Chic Chef 77 and Erica Jerido of Retail Therapy AZ push forward—often using personal funds, crowdfunding, and local support to grow and recover from setbacks.

New initiatives—including the SEDI Grant, Prestamos Women’s Business Center, and NAWBO Phoenix certification programs—help bridge these gaps, offering grants, mentorship, and crucial certifications.

By supporting targeted resources and celebrating resilient founders, Phoenix is building a more equitable, dynamic business community.

🍂 Crispy Delicata & Pomegranate Salad with Ginger-Tahini Drizzle

Why It Works:

This vibrant fall salad pairs roasted delicata squash—known for its edible skin and sweet, nutty flavor—with fresh pomegranate arils, peppery arugula, and crunchy roasted chickpeas. A light ginger-tahini drizzle ties everything together with creamy brightness, no heaviness needed.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium delicata squash (sliced into half-moons)
  
  

• 1 cup arugula or baby kale
  
  

• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
  
  

• 1/2 cup roasted chickpeas (or toasted pepitas)
  
  

• 2 tbsp olive oil
  
  

• Salt & pepper to taste

Ginger-Tahini Dressing:

• 2 tbsp tahini
  
  

• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  
  

• 1 tsp grated ginger
  
  

• 1 tsp maple syrup
  
  

• Water to thin

How to Make:

1. Roast delicata squash at 400°F with olive oil, salt, and pepper for 20–25 minutes until golden.
   
   

2. In a bowl, toss arugula, pomegranate seeds, and roasted chickpeas.
   
   

3. Whisk dressing ingredients until smooth.
   
   

Add warm squash to the greens and drizzle with dressing.

Many Phoenix women entrepreneurs start their businesses by relying on personal savings, credit cards, or retirement funds—a high-stakes approach that provides control but carries major risks.

The journey of Megan Greenwood, founder of Greenwood Brewing on Roosevelt Row, highlights these challenges.

After beginning with a small home-brew kit, she raised $68,000 on Kickstarter to fund her brewery, showing both determination and the limits of self-financing.

Nearly 46% of Arizona firms are run by women, yet many still struggle to secure funding from traditional banks.

The barrier is even steeper for Latina entrepreneurs, with 35% citing poor credit as their main obstacle.

However, local organizations like Prestamos Women’s Business Center and Growth Partners Arizona offer community-focused lending and support, reducing the need for risky self-funding.

New initiatives—such as the Visible Sisters Initiative—are making resources more accessible, helping women in Phoenix grow their businesses with confidence.

Secret Little Hack

Invest in networking and building relationships with other women entrepreneurs.

Connect with them online or in person to share advice, support, and resources.

Collaborating with like-minded women can help you grow your business and navigate challenges more effectively.

Securing business funding remains a significant challenge for many women entrepreneurs in Phoenix.

Stephanie Vasquez, owner of Fair Trade Café, struggled to access relief funds during the pandemic, but her strong relationship with the National Bank of Arizona proved pivotal, highlighting the value of solid banking connections.

Collateral and personal credit are critical factors — without sufficient assets or a strong credit history, loan approval chances drop dramatically.

Hidden fees and complicated requirements can confuse business owners, making preparation essential.

Groups like SCORE Greater Phoenix urge entrepreneurs to present a clean financial package and clear three-year projections to lenders.

New support programs, such as the Arizona Microbusiness Loan Program and the Arizona Loan Guarantee Program, launched in 2024, offer funding opportunities and educational resources for local startups.

With early relationship-building and careful planning, Phoenix’s women founders can better navigate the path to business growth.