The 13th annual Small Business Woman of the Year awards recently concluded at Eastern Arizona College, underscoring the vital role women entrepreneurs play in fueling the regional economy. The ceremony, hosted by the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), celebrated the perseverance and innovation of business leaders across Graham and Greenlee counties, reinforcing the importance of localized economic empowerment.
Candice Garcia, the owner of Candice’s Creations, and Brandi Bodine, co-owner of Stage Stop, Mt. Graham Market, and 3-Way, took home the top honors, each receiving a $2,000 prize. These awards, supported by partners including Freeport-McMoRan and the United Way, highlight how targeted financial support and community recognition can sustain small businesses that serve as the backbone of their local neighborhoods.
## Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Digital and Educational Tools
While the event focused on regional brick-and-mortar success, it also shed light on how modern business development programs are evolving. Corey Cranford, a certified business analyst with the SBDC, noted that today’s entrepreneurs must be more than just business owners; they are innovators who require access to high-level training to navigate economic challenges.
The “DreamBuilder” program, a cornerstone of this support system, provides aspiring entrepreneurs with specialized education in business planning, marketing, and financial management. This digital-first approach to mentorship allows business owners to access global-standard business practices locally. By leveraging such educational frameworks, entrepreneurs like Garcia have been able to scale their operations—specifically in service-oriented sectors like catering and retail—while maintaining deep ties to the community.
## The Interplay of Community and Economic Development
The ceremony underscored a shift in how modern organizations, such as the United Way and corporate partners like Freeport-McMoRan, view their impact. Paola Vergera, a manager at the Freeport-McMoRan Central Analytical Service Center, emphasized that the strength of a regional economy is tethered to its small business health.
In an era where remote work and digital platforms are changing the landscape of commerce, these local organizations are prioritizing “human-centric” technology—using data and analytical tools not just for corporate gain, but to identify gaps in local services. By providing the infrastructure for women to succeed, these organizations ensure that local economies remain resilient against larger market fluctuations. The integration of these tech-enabled resources allows small businesses to operate with the efficiency of larger corporations while preserving the personal touch that local consumers value.
## Recognizing Resilience in an Evolving Market
The event also featured the recognition of eight finalists across diverse sectors, including healthcare, accounting, and creative services. These businesses exemplify how modern entrepreneurs are adapting to changing consumer habits—such as the rise of digital marketing, e-commerce, and specialized wellness services—to remain relevant.
Graham County Supervisor Clay Mack, who presented a proclamation declaring October as National Women’s Small Business Month, highlighted the inherent challenges of entrepreneurship. He noted that the ability to navigate periods of instability, such as those faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, is a testament to the digital and operational agility of modern small business owners.
As the SBDC continues to refine its support programs, the focus remains on equipping women leaders with the tools needed for long-term growth. Whether through digital bookkeeping, advanced inventory management systems, or community-based networking platforms, the emphasis on professional development remains the primary driver of success in the Gila Valley and beyond. By honoring these contributions, the region not only celebrates past achievements but sets a blueprint for future economic sustainability.
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