Arizona’s Leading Early-Stage Pitch Competition is Back
One of Arizona’s most anticipated entrepreneurial events, IdeaFunding is opening its 2026 competition with a new structure designed to better serve startup founders across the state. A flagship event of TENWEST, IdeaFunding continues to provide early-stage companies with mentorship and pitch training and the opportunity to compete for cash prizes and awards. Applications are now […]
Health care, defense, tech and services lead a slow reset after two stalled years
After two uneven years, Tucson enters 2026 with an economic outlook that economists herald as . . . well, modestly improved. Not booming, not buoyant — simply better than 2024 and 2025. Growth is expected to return, though by increments, and business leaders appear more willing to make decisions that were put off during a […]
Carol Stewart Featured in People of Impact
The Tech Parks Arizona team is proud to recognize Carol Stewart, CEO of Tech Parks Arizona, who is featured in Tucson Lifestyle Magazine’s People of Impact issue published today. Carol’s leadership has empowered our team and partners to build one of the most successful university research park ecosystems in North America, driving $2.6B in annual […]
Reimagining the future: The rise of entrepreneurial universities
The University Industry Innovation Network (UIIN) has released a new thought-leadership book highlighting global insights on how universities shape innovation ecosystems. The publication brings together leading voices on building effective, resilient university–industry partnerships. Among them is a contribution from Carol Stewart, Vice President of the University of Arizona and President & CEO of Tech Parks […]
RTA Next Information Session at the UA Tech Park
Join us at the UA Tech Park Event Center on January 27, 2026, for an in-depth information session on RTA Next, the proposed 20-year regional transportation plan that aims to enhance connectivity, safety, efficiency and long-term economic growth across Southern Arizona. Michael J. Ortega, P.E., Executive Director of the Regional Transportation Authority, will provide an […]
Vail Academy and High School Welcomes New Principal, Diane Vargo
Vail Academy and High School proudly announced Diane Vargo as its new principal, following the retirement of longtime leader Dennis Barger. Vargo stepped into the role in May 2025 and brings with her 25 years of experience in the Vail School District. Her journey began in 2000 as a student teacher at Mesquite Elementary School, […]
KVOA Highlights Tech Parks Arizona’s Golden Prospector Merit Award
KVOA recently featured Tech Parks Arizona for receiving the 2025 Golden Prospector Merit Award from the Arizona Association for Economic Development. The segment spotlighted the organization’s long-standing commitment to innovation, economic development, and strong university industry partnerships across its three locations: UA Tech Park at Rita Road, UA Tech Park at The Bridges and the […]
The Refinery at UA Tech Park at The Bridges Achieves LEED Silver Certification
Tech Parks Arizona proudly announces that The Refinery, the flagship building at the University of Arizona (UA) Tech Park at The Bridges, has earned LEED Silver Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. This achievement reflects a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation by Tech Parks Arizona and its development partner, The Boyer Company, one […]
Homecoming at The UA Tech Park
Celebrate the University of Arizona’s Homecoming spirit right here at the UA Tech Park! Date: Wednesday, November 5 Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Location: Innovation Plaza Near Cafe Zona (Building 9040, Spine Entrance) Menu: Hamburger + Chips & Drink Join coworkers and fellow Wildcats for a fun mid-day cookout featuring a $5 […]
Tech Parks Arizona Drives $2.6 Billion Annual Economic Impact
Tech Parks Arizona celebrates a powerful economic legacy, reporting a $2.6 billion annual economic impact. The figure comes from a newly released analysis of 2024 data, the organization’s milestone 30th anniversary year, and conducted by the independent research firm Rounds Consulting Group. Every five years, Tech Parks Arizona undertakes a comprehensive assessment of its three […]