Quote Of The Day

"Success doesn't come from what you do occasionally, it comes from what you do consistently." - Marie Forleo

Real success stories are lighting the way for women entrepreneurs across Phoenix.

Megan Greenwood transformed Greenwood Brewing from a homegrown project into a major brand, now found in over 400 Arizona stores.

Erica Jerido started Retail Therapy AZ as a mobile shop and expanded to four locations with the help of crowdfunding and grants.

Stephanie Vasquez weathered the pandemic at Fair Trade Café with a strong banker partnership, then launched Amor Collective to uplift Latina founders.

Denied relief at first, Hasmik Chilingaryan secured CDFI funding for Kabob Grill N Go and now thrives with support from Prestamos.

Nik Fields relied on her finance background to self-fund Chic Chef 77, creating Arizona’s first Black-owned wine bar and expanding her brand.

Phoenix women are proving there’s no single route to business growth.

Their journeys—through self-funding, community backing, and creative financing—underscore one truth: persistence pays off.

Tip of The Day

Prioritize self-care and make time for yourself every day.

This could include exercise, meditation, journaling, or any activity that helps you relax and recharge.

Taking care of your well-being is essential for maintaining productivity and creativity in your business.

Families nationwide are reimagining what it means to thrive, with wellness now extending beyond diet and fitness to the very spaces they call home.

There’s a growing shift toward non-toxic living, where households are closely examining their cookware, cleaning supplies, and everyday products for safety and health impacts.

This conscious movement has fueled demand for safer air fryers, toxin-free containers, and sustainable goods, transforming how communities approach overall well-being.

Local markets and community efforts are central, turning routine shopping into learning opportunities about eco-friendly practices and reusable products.

Building a healthy home is a journey of small, informed choices—each step supporting not only individual households but the entire neighborhood’s resilience.

As more families embrace these habits, the benefits ripple outward, shaping healthier, cleaner, and more vibrant communities for generations ahead.

Interesting Facts

Imposter syndrome—persistent self-doubt despite clear accomplishments—continues to challenge many women entrepreneurs in Phoenix.

This psychological barrier can be just as limiting as financial hurdles, impacting confidence during funding pitches and negotiations.

Local support organizations, including Prestamos Women’s Business Center and NAWBO Phoenix, report that many women founders regularly struggle with feelings of being a “fraud.”

Strategies to overcome these challenges include reframing rejection as feedback, rehearsing pitches with experienced mentors, and drawing strength from personal expertise.

Active engagement in networks such as Fresh Start Women’s Foundation fosters belonging and confidence.

Success stories, like Stephanie Vasquez of Fair Trade Café, highlight the power of mentorship and preparation in transforming self-doubt into advocacy.

Upcoming events—such as the Women Entrepreneurs & Leadership Summit and the Her Write to Rise Mentorship Day—provide valuable opportunities for growth, learning, and connection.

With robust community resources, Phoenix women entrepreneurs can confidently navigate and overcome imposter syndrome.

🥗 Warm Delicata Squash & Fig Salad with Maple-Dijon Dressing

Why it’s unique:
Instead of the usual butternut or acorn squash, this salad features roasted delicata squash — no peeling required! Paired with fresh figs, baby arugula, walnuts, and goat cheese, it strikes a perfect balance between sweet, savory, and earthy.

🍁 Ingredients

• 1 delicata squash, sliced into rings
  
  

• 6–8 fresh figs, halved
  
  

• 4 cups baby arugula (or mixed greens)
  
  

• ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese
  
  

• ¼ cup toasted walnuts or pecans
  
  

• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
  

• Pinch of sea salt & black pepper
  
  

Maple-Dijon Dressing:

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  
  

• 1 tbsp maple syrup
  
  

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  
  

• 3 tbsp olive oil
  
  

• Salt & pepper to taste

🔥 Instructions

1. Roast the Squash:
   Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Toss delicata rings in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
   
   

2. Make the Dressing:
   Whisk all dressing ingredients until emulsified.
   
   

3. Assemble:
   On a large platter, layer arugula, warm squash, figs, and nuts. Drizzle with dressing. Finish with goat cheese crumbles.
   
   

4. Serve Warm or Room Temp — it holds up beautifully.

🌟 Optional Additions

• Add grilled chicken or lentils for protein
  
  

Sub pears or roasted grapes if figs are unavailable

Grants offer vital, debt-free funding that can propel women-owned businesses in Phoenix to new heights.

From monthly awards and scholarships to major one-time grants, several opportunities stand out for Valley entrepreneurs.

The Amber Grant for Women provides $10,000 each month, spotlighting founder stories over strict financials.

Socially and economically disadvantaged businesses can access $5,000–$10,000 through the SEDI Business Supportive Grant from the Black Chamber of Arizona, which also offers critical consulting and membership benefits.

The Fresh Start Women’s Foundation Scholarships empower women with tuition support and practical business training through PVCC, helping graduates launch with confidence.

Local First Arizona periodically rolls out sizable grants, many reserved for women and minority-owned firms to strengthen local economies.

The WFSA FORGE Grant, launching in 2025, delivers $65,000 in unrestricted funding to BIWOC-led ventures statewide.

Inspiring founders like Erica Jerido are transforming grit and community grants into standout businesses across Phoenix.

Secret Little Hack

Outsource tasks that are not within your expertise or passion to focus on what truly matters for your business.

Autumn’s brilliant colors create the ideal backdrop for a memorable fall getaway.

Prepare for fluctuating temperatures by embracing layered clothing, such as a lightweight waterproof jacket and sturdy walking shoes.

For those chasing peak foliage, use prediction tools and book your stay early in places like Vermont, Oregon, or the Smoky Mountains to enjoy the best color displays.

Autumn brims with festive celebrations, including the enchanting Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, providing unforgettable local experiences.

Take advantage of post-summer off-season deals for budget-friendly trips.

Pack thoughtfully—essentials like a reusable water bottle and a soft scarf will enhance comfort without weighing you down.

Don’t forget your camera or extra phone storage to capture autumn’s soft golden light and vibrant landscapes.

Let yourself savor the scenic drives and unique local culture that make fall journeys truly special.