The InnovationHub @ GoodyearAZ, a cornerstone for entrepreneurial growth in the West Valley, celebrates a decade of fostering successful business endeavors. According to the City of Goodyear Economic Development, the Hub has been pivotal in equipping both nascent and established business owners with the tools necessary for their ventures to flourish.
Launched on February 22, 2014, the InnovationHub marked its 10th anniversary this year with a move to the second floor of the Georgia T. Lord Library at Goodyear Civic Square at GSQ, and the simultaneous unveiling of a new logo and color scheme. This milestone, as highlighted in an article published by the City of Goodyear Economic Development, reflects the center's commitment to reducing barriers to business ownership for entrepreneurs in the southwest valley, giving them the preparedness to avoid becoming just another statistic in the startup failure rates.
Not one to turn down a bright idea, the Hub offers entrepreneurs and small business owners not only coaching and consultations but also technical assistance and free programs. The City of Goodyear Economic Development notes the Hub's role in helping hundreds of small business veterans and rookies alike through its comprehensive service portfolio.
The Hub's Business Basics course, formerly known as Startup School, has been a crowd-puller since 2014. With nearly 500 entrepreneurs under its belt and 22 completed cohorts, participants are schooled in everything from identifying customers to structuring their businesses—as per the City of Goodyear Economic Development. Access to this education has been absolutely gratis, emphasizing the Hub's orientation toward accessible business education for all.
InnovationHub has buttressed its educational offerings with the introduction of Business Builders in 2017, monthly workshops teeming with guest speakers aimed at beefing up an entrepreneur's business and leadership IQ. The City of Goodyear Economic Development applauds these sessions for providing valuable opportunities to network and to gain insights into key areas like marketing strategies and financial literacy.
One-on-one mentoring is another handsome feature of the InnovationHub. Every Saturday morning, Future business moguls can book time with a mentor either from the Hub’s own pool or from Greater Phoenix SCORE mentors, according to the Hub’s official website. This guidance can sway the unwary entrepreneur away from common pitfalls and steer them on the path toward success.
Also available is a private conference room that the Hub offers — free of charge — to entrepreneurs seeking a professional space to cultivate their business aspirations. The City of Goodyear Economic Development encourages business owners to reach out to the business development manager to learn more about utilizing the space. An open seating area within the Hub is available as well, ready for use without the need for a reservation during regular library hours.
For more information on the InnovationHub, the Goodyear Economic Development team is ready to take your call or email, as provided on their website. Claire Bruns, the Business Development Manager for InnovationHub, offers direct assistance for any questions regarding their services or the city of Goodyear.
