The Evolving Role of Networking in the East Valley, AZ
- Kate Mayeski
- Jun 14
- 7 min read
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.
Over the past year, I’ve grown my business by immersing myself in the East Valley’s local networks—from Chambers to curated events—and I've seen which ones are evolving and which are lagging.
Since Phoenix consistently ranks among the top U.S. cities for economic growth, it’s a good time to step back as business owners and ask: what’s working, what’s outdated, and where do we go from here?
Chambers of Commerce: Still Relevant, But in Need of a Refresh
As a member of the Gilbert, Mesa, and Apache Junction Chambers and someone active in groups like Above Par Network (APN) and a frequent flyer at Accelerent, I’ve seen the full spectrum—what’s working, what needs work. Chambers have long been about community and connection. But the old model of in-person-only events and email blasts doesn’t always land in today’s tech-savvy landscape.
Take Gilbert, for example. The CATALYST program is a smart partnership between the Chamber and the Town's Office of Economic Development.
“Chambers of commerce serve as a collective representation of the local economy—membership-based, membership-driven, and grounded in the belief that we are stronger when we work together. We work every day to support small business owners—connecting them to resources, building relationships, and helping them stay informed on issues that impact their growth.” — Sarah Watts (Gilbert Chamber of Commerce)
This kind of alignment between business and local government is the direction we need to be heading.
The Rise of Specialized Business Networks
Unlike traditional groups, APN and Accelerent are leaner, purpose-driven, and curated for real momentum. APN keeps things relaxed but intentional. Accelerent is designed for high-level introductions and strategic growth.
“APN is different from traditional networking groups in a lot of ways. First, our membership cost is just a third—or even a quarter—of what others charge. There’s no BS with mandatory attendance, point systems, or assigned activities. Our members show up because they genuinely value building relationships, not just chasing transactions. The vibe is welcoming, fun, and inspires real momentum—you can feel the difference the moment you walk in.” — Frank Stirpe (Above Par Network)
“We provide Accelerent Partners with environments like Executive & Producer Roundtables, Subgroups, Workshops, Open Houses along with our ever-popular Executive Lunches and the Accelerent Breakfast Series. All of these environments allow our Partners to develop relationships and generate new business opportunities that fuel the growth of the middle market business community in Phoenix Market and throughout Arizona.” — Scott Crites (Accelerent)
These aren’t your typical networking events. They’re built for impact.
Advocacy, Education & Visibility: Where Chambers Still Shine
While I still walk into the occasional event and it's 90% middle-aged white guys, I’m seeing more diversity across the board. That’s a win.
Chambers still bring serious value in areas like policy advocacy and community engagement. The East Valley Chamber of Commerce Alliance (EVCCA) represents over 5,500 businesses and gives us a louder voice at the state level. Localized groups like the East Valley Hispanic Chamber and Apache Junction Chamber are doing important work in tourism, community outreach, and cultural representation.
“The Apache Junction Area Chamber of Commerce plays a vital role in the local community by promoting, developing, and uniting the business community in and around Apache Junction, Gold Canyon, and East Mesa to accomplish economic growth, and enhance the overall quality of life in the region.” — Mary Ann Przybylski (Apache Junction Chamber of Commerce)
Visibility matters. But if it only reaches those in the room, we’re missing out. Social media has to be part of the play.
Training, Tech & Tools: The Digital Shift We Need to Embrace
Let’s be real—most member portals are outdated. I’d love to see a unified East Valley platform to manage events, directories, and resources more seamlessly.
Many of these orgs host events on AI, SEO, and tech trends—but aren’t applying those tools to their own operations. The credibility gap is real.
There are bright spots: Gilbert's HUUB and Mesa's Business Builder platforms are making digital access easier. The Arizona Business One Stop is another win—a one-stop shop for registering and managing your business.
But let’s ask the real question: do these platforms serve real needs, or are they just tech for tech’s sake?
Networking That Fits Your Life & Budget
Money matters. So does your time.
Before writing a check, ask where that money’s going. Are they reinvesting in the group? Are you actually getting value?
If you're a service provider, ask the hard questions: are they already working with someone? Is a trade-for-exposure deal really worth your time?
Do your homework. Check their socials and engagement. You might get more traction promoting through your own channels.
“Advance Champion Supply finds great value in belonging to multiple networking organizations. Time spent in the Mesa, Gilbert and Chandler Chambers of Commerce provides great value to our business in the relationships that are cultivated that result in customers and the efforts of the Chambers in their advocacy work on behalf of the local business community and interaction with elected officials.” — Kevin De Rosa (Advance Champion Supply)
Time Cost of Networking:
60 min meeting
40 min travel
3x per week = 5+ hrs= 6.5 full weeks/year
You could spend that time cold-calling, creating content, training, or building your team.
Some groups are just social hangouts. That’s fine if that’s what you’re looking for. But know the difference. Read the room.
Shop around before you commit. Visit different events. Make sure the energy, the people, and the structure match your goals.
Free and low-cost networking opportunities pop up on Alignable, Eventbrite, and LinkedIn. These can be a great way to test the waters.
And yes, big events like the Phoenix Global Forum and other conferences can be expensive. But if you’re strategic, they can also be game-changers.
Let’s Tweak the Referral Group Format
Most weekly groups follow a formula: intros, commercials, maybe a talk. I prefer groups that go deeper.
Save the pitches for when new people join. Use the rest of the time to talk business, challenges, and real solutions. That’s how trust is built.
Being liked doesn’t mean someone’s the right vendor. Being in a room doesn’t mean it’s the right room. Discernment matters.
Give new members a chance to present early. Let long-timers rotate in later. A small tweak that can make a big difference in inclusivity.
Community-Driven Hubs Making a Difference
Shout out to local gems like The Studios @ Mesa City Center, Beanchain Coffee, and Superior Enterprise Center. These spaces prove that local innovation can drive serious growth.
Whether it’s Beanchain’s grassroots coworking vibe or the workforce-focused model at Superior Enterprise Center, these hubs offer real value to real people.
More Resources Worth Knowing About
There are so many resources out there that it can feel like noise. Here are just a few that are worth a second glance:
Many are free or discounted. But it still takes time to find the right fit.
Shared Opportunity: Technology and Tools to Support Small Business
In-person matters. But we’re in a digital world. Podcasts, YouTube, and good old-fashioned books can move you forward, too.
My current go-to: Diary of a CEO by Steven Bartlett. And I’ll always recommend Tribe of Mentors by Tim Ferriss.
Chambers and networking groups aren’t just support systems—they’re also competing for our attention. They need to know what makes them stand out.
Many of the business owners who need these tools most don’t have the bandwidth to access them. How do we lower that barrier?
Whether it’s chambers sending text reminders, APN posting LinkedIn spotlights, or Accelerent using smart CRMs—the tech is there. We just need to use it.
The Power of Collective Growth
If there’s no seat at the table, build your own. But don’t just make noise—fill a gap.
Your network is your net worth. So be thoughtful about how and where you show up.
“Running a small business takes grit, but you don’t have to do it alone. We are here to connect, support, and cheer on our local businesses because their success is Chandler’s success.” — Terri Kimble (Chandler Chamber of Commerce)
Instead of debating which model is best, let’s ask how to blend the best of each: Chamber advocacy, APN's vibe, Accelerent's strategy.
Collaboration is the way forward. Let’s stop competing for attention and start sharing the spotlight.
Let’s (actually) Connect
If you're passionate about supporting small businesses or simply want to explore how better networking can drive real growth in your community, I'd love to chat.
I’m Kate Mayeski, founder of Maverick May Solutions. Through our blog, podcast, and community partnerships, we help Arizona’s entrepreneurs, small businesses, and even non-profits amplify their voice.
📩 Get in touch or visit mavmay.com to learn more about partnership opportunities, sponsorships, and how we can help your brand grow while doing good for the local economy.
Let’s build something remarkable—together. More Resources & Links (not an exhaustive, but an I-am-exhausted-compiling-it list)
Here are links to specialized chambers and networking groups in Arizona:
Here are direct links to the local municipalities and towns referenced throughout:
Additional support organizations and tools:
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