The Minority and Small Business Alliance of Southern Arizona was established as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in February 2009.

Welcome to the Minority & Small Business Alliance of Southern Arizona


Through an extensive network of partnerships representing a cross-section of the community from public and private businesses, governmental agencies and organizations, the Minority and Small Business Alliance provides educational workshops and programs, providing information, resources, business development, mentoring and access to programs and services. All of this to assist with increasing the economic power, success and growth of Small Businesses throughout Southern Arizona.

Carlotta Flores – 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient
In addition to the workshops offered by the Minority and Small Business Alliance, we will be recognizing outstanding small businesses in Southern Arizona in the following areas:​

CONSTRUCTION | EXPORTING | MANUFACTURING RETAIL | SERVICES SUPPLIER/DISTRIBUTION | TECHNOLOGY

MSBA also awards $1,000 – $3,000 scholarships to minority and disadvantaged students attending either the University of Arizona or Pima Community College. To date, more than $121,000 in scholarships has been awarded to 96 students. Funds are collected during our Live Auction/Raffle during the Awards program.

UPCOMING EVENTS

LEARN. COLLABORATE. GROW.

Upcoming Events

Alliance Members


Lydia Aranda (Chair)

Andrew Volendesta (Co-Chair)

Michael Boreale

Ricardo Carlo

Maria Larios

Lydia Duron-Kari

Rich Pesqueira

Mark Stine

Carmen Arroyo

Veronica Ruiz-Ronquillo

Jo Anne Arvizu

George Medina

Special Thanks to our 2022 sponsors

your Support Helps make this event possible


Platinum Sponsorship

Gold Sponsorship

Advocate Sponsorship

Friendship Sponsorship

Check out our testimonials


“The Minority and Small Business Alliance scholarship award has provided funding to assist in the completion of my graduate certificate. The funding reduced the burden of student loans as my academic scholarship from the University of Arizona expired upon completion of my undergraduate degree. This scholarship helped to purchase required books and study materials needed to further my education. I have been able to complete my program and begin to study for the Certified Public Accountant exam with the help of this award. I would like to thank the Minority and Small Business Alliance for awarding this scholarship and assisting in my success!”

— Zachary Fleming, 2018 MSBA Award Recipient

“Being part of web development team has been rewarding because we are making it easier for small businesses to find support and grow.”

— Walter Gonzalo, Volunteer