MEET STARTUP
TUCSON
Transforming Southern Arizona’s economy through entrepreneurship and innovation.
ABOUT STARTUP TUCSON
Startup Tucson is a nonprofit working to transform the Southern Arizona economy through entrepreneurship and innovation. We focus our direct programs — Learn, Build, and Grow — on founders building innovative ventures with the intention to grow, while playing a broader role connecting Southern Arizona's wider entrepreneurial community.
Through accessible programs, mentorship, and community connection, we reduce barriers to success for founders of all backgrounds. We believe entrepreneurship empowers individuals and communities to reach their full potential when opportunities are accessible and equitable.
Founded in 2012, Startup Tucson sits at the frontier of grassroots economic development and has been vital to the rapid growth of our region's creative and entrepreneurial community. In 2024–2025, we directly engaged more than 2,000 entrepreneurs and ecosystem supporters through our programs and events.
Our Entrepreneurs are Diverse and Driven:
OUR MISSION, VISION & VALUES
MISSION
Working to transform the region’s economy through entrepreneurship and innovation.
VISION
We imagine a Tucson known nationwide as an ideal place to start and grow a business.
GOALS
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Increase the number, quality, and diversity of startups and entrepreneurs.
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Change the narrative of Southern Arizona as a top place for innovators.
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Be recognized as a trusted connector within Southern Arizona's entrepreneurship community.
VALUES
Optimism. Inclusivity. Customer-Centric. Collaborative. Relationship-Focused.
OUR IMPACT
Entrepreneurship changes lives and strengthens communities.
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Each year, Startup Tucson helps founders grow stronger, more sustainable businesses.
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These business create jobs, bring revenue to our community and support future generations.
2025–2026 Impact Highlights​​
$9.9M
capital raised
110+ new jobs created
36% of founders saw revenue growth
$34 million
in revenue
300+ founders
supported
60
active
mentors
STARTUP TUCSON STAFF
Liz Pocock
Chief Executive Officer
Megan Finck
Director of Programs & Events
PROGRAM PARTNERS
Keneshia Raymond
Anita Chavarin
OUR BOARD
Gina Catalano, Chairwoman
Founder, Venture Solutions, LLC and
Co-founder, La Suprema Works & Events
Serving since February 2023
Fletcher McCusker
Chief Executive Officer, UA Venture Capital
Serving since July 2014
Andrew More, Secretary
Venture Capitalist
Serving since February 2023
Gabrielle Morlock
Associate, Snell & Wilmer
Serving since March 2024
David Smallhouse, Treasurer
Managing Director, Miramar Ventures
Serving since December 2013
Cristie Street
Senior Vice President & COO
Southern Arizona Leadership Council
Serving Since July 2025
OUR HISTORY & EVOLUTION
Founded in 2012 on the heels of Tucson’s first Startup Weekend, Startup Tucson quickly became the advocate, educator, and connector for entrepreneurs across Southern Arizona.
We’ve grown from a volunteer initiative to an award-winning regional organization with hundreds of founders in our network.
2014
2015
2012
2019
2020-21
2022-24
2025
& Beyond
Founded by volunteer entrepreneurs after Tucson’s first Startup Weekend.
Received first federal funding through the SBA ScaleUp Program.
Launched the TENWEST Impact Festival.
Named Copper Cactus Nonprofit of the Year.
Received EDA and USDA awards; pivoted to virtual support during COVID.
Expanded programs countywide; opened Launch Lab & Media Studio.
Launching Startup Tucson 3.0 and new Learn–Build–Grow model.
MAJOR GRANTS & PROJECTS
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2025 OneAZ Legacy Grant
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2024 Rooted Relative Fund Partner
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2022 EDA Build Back Better Finalist
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Multiple SBA, USDA & EDA awardees
AWARDS
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2021 SBA National Super Connector
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2021 Copper Cactus Innovation Award
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2019 Copper Cactus Nonprofit of the Year
Startup Tucson is able to provide free or low-cost services to entrepreneurs thanks to the generous support of our organizational sponsors
Presenting Sponsor of TENWEST
Connie Hillman
Family Foundation
