Starting a Business

Turning Ideas Into Opportunity in the Gila Valley

Whether you’re launching a new company, opening a storefront, starting a home-based business, or relocating an existing operation, Graham County offers the resources, partnerships, and support to help you succeed. Local organizations throughout the Gila Valley work together to assist entrepreneurs with business planning, workforce development, site selection, permitting, financing opportunities, and community connections.

From concept to grand opening, business owners have access to a network of partners dedicated to helping businesses grow and thrive in southeastern Arizona.

Start Your Business Journey

Business Planning & Guidance

Local and regional organizations can help entrepreneurs develop business plans, explore funding opportunities, and connect with valuable resources.

Site Selection Assistance

Whether you’re looking for office space, retail storefronts, industrial property, or development land, local partners can help identify opportunities throughout Graham County.

Workforce & Training Resources

Businesses have access to workforce development programs, hiring assistance, and employee training opportunities through local educational and workforce partners.

Local Connections

Networking opportunities, business organizations, and community partnerships help entrepreneurs build relationships and grow their businesses.

Business Resource Partners

Site selection assistance, demographic information, workforce data, business attraction, and expansion resources.

Website: https://grahameconomy.com

Business networking, advocacy, relocation assistance, community connections, and local business support.

Website: https://grahamchamber.org

Workforce training, continuing education, customized employer training, and business development support.

Website: https://www.eac.edu

Hiring assistance, workforce programs, employee recruitment, and workforce development services.

Website: https://arizonaatwork.com

Planning, permitting, development services, and county business resources.

Website: https://www.graham.az.gov

Business licensing, development information, utilities, and local government services.

Website: https://www.saffordaz.gov

Business and development resources for businesses locating within Thatcher.

Website: https://www.thatcheraz.gov

Business resources and community information for entrepreneurs and investors.

Website: https://www.townofpima.com

Why Businesses Choose Graham County

The Gila Valley offers more than opportunity—it offers partners committed to helping businesses succeed. Whether you’re opening your first business, expanding an existing company, or relocating to Graham County, local organizations are ready to help you take the next step.

 
 
Affordable Cost of Doing Business
Skilled Workforce
Quality of Life

Frequently Asked Questions

The best place to begin is by connecting with local partners such as Graham County Economic Development and the Graham County Chamber of Commerce, who can help guide you through available resources and next steps.

Organizations including Eastern Arizona College, Arizona@Work, and regional business support partners can help connect entrepreneurs with planning resources and training opportunities.

Yes. Arizona@Work and Eastern Arizona College offer workforce development, recruitment, and training programs designed to support local employers.

Graham County Economic Development can assist with site selection, available properties, and location opportunities throughout the region.

Requirements vary depending on the type of business and location. Local municipalities and Graham County can provide guidance on permitting and licensing requirements.

Businesses benefit from affordable operating costs, workforce resources, strategic transportation access, available land, and a high quality of life that supports long-term growth.