From Coffee Shops to Skyscrapers: The Story of Arizona’s Economic Rise
- Kate Mayeski
- Jun 23
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 24
By Kate Mayeski
Transparency Note: This article is not sponsored or supported by any organizations, companies, or public agencies mentioned. Everything shared here is based on my research and experiences.
Why “Follow the Builders” Beats “Follow the Money” Every Time
Want to predict a region's economic future? Don’t just follow the money—follow the infrastructure builders.
What “Economic Development” Really Means for Your Community
Economic development isn't just a buzzword for policymakers or something for city planners to toss around. At its core, it's the practice of improving a community’s quality of life through strategic investments in business growth, workforce development, infrastructure, housing, and innovation.
According to the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), it's about creating the conditions where businesses and communities can thrive. It’s how towns turn into thriving cities—and how cities stay livable for everyone, not just the few.
Arizona’s Power Players: How ACA, GPEC & AAED Drive Inclusive Prosperity
In Arizona, economic development includes everything from attracting major employers to ensuring small businesses have the support they need to grow. Organizations like Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) and Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) lead efforts to build a diversified economy. It means advocating for housing that teachers and first responders can actually afford, and creating job training programs that connect students with local industries, often in partnership with the Maricopa Community Colleges. When done right, it’s what keeps your favorite coffee shop in business, your roads drivable, and your kids employed after graduation.
And here's the thing—economic development affects everyone. Whether you’re a small business owner, a renter worried about rising costs, or just someone who wants your kids to be able to stay in Arizona long-term, you’ve got skin in the game.
If you're searching for insights on Arizona economic development strategy, local government infrastructure planning, or community-focused economic growth, this post has you covered.
Last week, I attended two powerhouse presentations from Arizona-based economic development leaders: Katie Hurst from the Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED), and Michael Martella from the Town of Gilbert. Their talks unpacked what real economic investment looks like—from policy to placemaking to inclusive growth.
Katie Hurst’s Blueprint: “Economic Development Is the Money Behind Quality of Life”
Revitalizing AAED Post-COVID
Katie doesn’t call herself an economic developer, but her leadership in Arizona’s innovation and co-working ecosystems positions her squarely in the field. Her insights into supporting equitable economic development in Arizona were some of the most grounded I’ve heard.
As CEO of AAED, Katie has revitalized the association post-COVID, turning it into the connective tissue linking rural and urban economic initiatives. AAED's role is to support economic developers through professional development and knowledge-sharing, which includes certification, advocacy, and more. Other groups, such as GPEC and ACA, also advocate and assist economic developers and are critical components of the overall ecosystem.
Balancing Tourism Growth with Resident Needs
Her phrase "economic development is the money behind quality of life" stuck with me. Katie also challenged the room with a powerful observation: "We're bringing in a lot of tourism, and that can make residents feel left out." That tension—between attracting outsiders and investing in locals—was a recurring theme. She said, "Economic development means thinking about the full picture, including things like childcare, housing, etc."
The Critical Role of Housing Access
From business retention and expansion (BRE) to workforce alignment, she emphasized the need for deeper investment in housing access. "How do we incentivize builders and investors to get behind affordable housing to support future growth?" she asked. It’s a question Arizona must answer if we want to build a resilient, inclusive future. She framed economic vitality in Arizona as something built through long-term systems, not short-term wins.
Katie emphasized, "Arts and tourism aren’t the cherry on top—they’re part of the pie." That line reframed how we view cultural and creative sectors—not as extras, but as engines.
Gilbert’s Playbook with Michael Martella: Small-Town Vibes, Big-City Results
While Katie covered the statewide landscape, Michael zoomed in on what city-level economic development in Arizona really looks like. His work in Gilbert is grounded, responsive, and deeply resident-focused.
Streamlining Permitting for Local Shops
He shared, "We’re not trying to be flashy—we’re trying to be effective. That means helping a local shop figure out permitting is just as important as landing a new HQ."
Heritage District Revitalization & Small Business Support
From revitalizing Gilbert’s Heritage District to launching free small business support programs, Michael's team models how municipal government can be a catalyst for growth.
Sustainable Growth Through “Green Gilbert”
Initiatives like job training scholarships with local colleges such as Mesa Community College or Chandler-Gilbert Community College, commercial and residential water audits, and the "Green Gilbert" program (which delivers actual cost savings) reflect an intentional, systems-based approach to sustainable economic growth in the Phoenix East Valley.
He added, "Economic development isn’t just about jobs—it’s about helping people stay in their community and thrive there." That nuance is what sets his team’s work apart.
I asked Michael what he thinks has been the secret sauce behind Gilbert’s ability to maintain its unique small-town feel without stunting economic growth. His answer? "Gilbert is a 30-year overnight success." He emphasized that it all comes back to intentionality and leadership. "We’ve had a continuity of vision in our leadership—from council to staff to community members—that’s allowed us to grow without losing who we are."
The Future of Arizona’s Economy: How You Can Get Involved
Katie and Michael’s work reflects a shift away from chasing splashy headlines and toward building resilient systems. Arizona faces big challenges—affordable housing, infrastructure gaps, and urban-rural alignment. But this kind of strategic, behind-the-scenes leadership gives me hope.
If you care about Arizona’s future economy, get to know your local economic developers. Their work might not be viral, but it’s vital—and it’s shaping the Arizona we’re all building together.
Want to collaborate? At Maverick May Solutions, we support economic development storytelling, event coverage, and campaigns that uplift Arizona’s small businesses and nonprofits. Whether you’re looking for direct partnership or sponsorship, let’s connect: kate@mavmay.com.
Comments