This week on In The Know with Andy Taylor, guest Randy Graf highlighted the exciting growth and opportunities happening at the Green Valley Sahuarita Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber recently welcomed ten new members ranging from local entrepreneurs and service providers to established companies, demonstrating the wide variety of businesses that make up its 400+ member network. Randy shared the Chamber’s goal of reaching 500 members and explained why membership is invaluable for marketing, networking, and gaining access to resources that support both small and large businesses.
Randy also introduced listeners to the Chamber’s new Elevate SGV Leadership Program, a 3½-month initiative designed to prepare future civic and business leaders through community-based learning. Seventeen participants are enrolled in the inaugural session, covering everything from healthcare and government to nonprofit engagement. Alongside this, the Chamber is fostering women-owned businesses with its newly launched Women’s Business Cohort, which quickly filled two groups due to overwhelming interest.
Education and workforce development were another major focus. Randy discussed the Elevate Education Arizona Workforce Development program, created in partnership with the Sahuarita Unified School District, the Phoenix Chamber Foundation, and local business leaders. This initiative places career coaches in high schools, giving juniors and seniors hands-on guidance, internships, and access to high-demand career paths — including opportunities to graduate high school with college credits or workforce credentials.
Finally, Randy previewed the upcoming State of the Town Luncheon, organized by the Chamber and set for next month at the Desert Diamond Casino Diamond Center. With more than 420 registered attendees already, the event will feature a business showcase and updates from the mayor on Sahuarita’s growth and future plans. Randy emphasized that whether you are a home-based startup, a nonprofit, or a Fortune 500 company, the Chamber offers tools, resources, and connections to help businesses thrive in Southern Arizona.