Phoenix Global Forum 2026https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Hero/DispForm.aspx?ID=32Phoenix Global Forum 2026<div class="ExternalClass7FC934F72E99408C8601649BD5EEA513"><div style="text-align:left;"><p>​Mark your calendar for Phoenix Global Forum 2026, to be held May 13​ in Downtown Phoenix. Discuss emerging industries​, discover the city's vibrant innovation ecosystem,​ and network globally.​ Don't wait, register today.​<br></p></div></div>1Start Herehttps://www.phoenixglobalforum.com/_blank_selfA panel of subject matter experts at Phoenix Global ForumGP0|#41a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da;L0|#041a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da|Home Page;GTSet|#a34b90d3-8600-496b-a17d-9e6a6a91b4a41https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Hero/Attachments/32/phxglobalforum.jpegHero
Pioneering Biosciencehttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Hero/DispForm.aspx?ID=7Pioneering Bioscience<div class="ExternalClass447D24CADB26499F94E446B97C632DF1"><p></p><p>We are transforming the landscape of life sciences and the future of Phoenix. Our business approach stems from planning and investment, making our City the place to be for pioneers committed to collaboration and medical  innovation.​<br></p></div>2Start Here/industries/bioscience-healthcare_self_selfGP0|#41a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da;L0|#041a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da|Home Page;GTSet|#a34b90d3-8600-496b-a17d-9e6a6a91b4a41https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Hero/Attachments/7/AdobeStock_451192308.jpgHero
The Quarterly Newsletterhttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Hero/DispForm.aspx?ID=33The Quarterly Newsletter<div class="ExternalClass5CE5934DDC334B7AA81609D065847422"><p>Catch up on local business news and updates from the fourth quarter of 2025 by reading the latest issue of The Quarterly newsletter. The digital publication is produced four times annually.<br></p></div>3Start Herehttps://www.investinphoenix.com/why-phoenix/business-newsletter_blank_selfThe Phoenix Community and Economic Develop exhibit at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, NV.GP0|#41a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da;L0|#041a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da|Home Page;GTSet|#a34b90d3-8600-496b-a17d-9e6a6a91b4a41https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Hero/Attachments/33/Photo_CED_CES-2026_008.jpgHero
Celebrate 602 Day on June 2https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Hero/DispForm.aspx?ID=34Celebrate 602 Day on June 2<div class="ExternalClass2EDDF28224F54CE1A2EB4EC53240A232">Join the Phoenix community as it celebrates 602 Day annually on June 2nd. The City of Phoenix partners with local businesses and organizations to offer special discounts and deals, and host events and activities that promote community spirit and honor 602 as the City’s most historically significant area code.<br></div>4Discover Morehttps://www.investinphoenix.com/living-here/Area-Code-Day_self_selfGP0|#41a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da;L0|#041a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da|Home Page;GTSet|#a34b90d3-8600-496b-a17d-9e6a6a91b4a41https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Hero/Attachments/34/602-day_HeroImg.jpgHero
Homepage Quotehttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/DynamicPageSections/DispForm.aspx?ID=1Homepage Quote<div class="ExternalClass0F84D237D5924A06A7A76AD69694BEE1"><p>In Phoenix, we welcome economic growth from all over the world. We are now a global center for advanced manufacturing. We lead the nation in life sciences hiring, with cures for cancer and breakthroughs in personalized medicine discovered and delivered here. More people choose Phoenix as their new home than any other U.S. city. This is a city of opportunity and we’re primed and ready for your business to succeed here​.<br></p></div>10_selfGP0|#41a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da;L0|#041a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da|Home Page;GTSet|#a34b90d3-8600-496b-a17d-9e6a6a91b4a4NoMayor Kate Gallego, City of PhoenixHot
Let TeamPHX Be Your Conciergehttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/DynamicPageSections/DispForm.aspx?ID=2Let TeamPHX Be Your Concierge<div class="ExternalClass1D1C06B8A562492CBA8AE403A2CB4BA0"><p></p><p>​Business Solutions made easy – contact TeamPHX, your dedicated team of business professionals. Our Concierge Services provide a one-stop solution for navigating City departments, expanding operations, and making community connections. Let us be your guide so that you can concentrate on what matters most – your business growth!​​<br></p></div>20Discover Morehttps://www.investinphoenix.com/grow-expand/business-resources_blank_blankCoworkers helping each otherGP0|#41a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da;L0|#041a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da|Home Page;GTSet|#a34b90d3-8600-496b-a17d-9e6a6a91b4a4https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/DynamicPageSections/Attachments/2/TeamPHXRED.jpgColorblockLeftRedBlueBlockLeft
Phoenix Bioscience Corehttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Links/DispForm.aspx?ID=3Phoenix Bioscience Core20https://phoenixbiosciencecore.com/_blankGP0|#41a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da;L0|#041a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da|Home Page;GTSet|#a34b90d3-8600-496b-a17d-9e6a6a91b4a4Logoshttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Links/Attachments/3/PBC Logo 2022-Black.jpgCED-LinksLogo
Arizona @ Workhttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Links/DispForm.aspx?ID=7Arizona @ Work22https://arizonaatwork.com_blankGP0|#41a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da;L0|#041a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da|Home Page;GTSet|#a34b90d3-8600-496b-a17d-9e6a6a91b4a4Logoshttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Links/Attachments/7/LOGO 20210326 Arizona@Work.jpgCED-LinksLogo
Phoenix Sister Citieshttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Links/DispForm.aspx?ID=4Phoenix Sister Cities24https://www.phoenixsistercities.org_blankGP0|#41a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da;L0|#041a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da|Home Page;GTSet|#a34b90d3-8600-496b-a17d-9e6a6a91b4a4Logoshttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Links/Attachments/4/PhoenixSisterCities.pngCED-LinksLogo
Film Phoenixhttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Links/DispForm.aspx?ID=6Film Phoenix26/industries/film_blankGP0|#41a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da;L0|#041a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da|Home Page;GTSet|#a34b90d3-8600-496b-a17d-9e6a6a91b4a4Logoshttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Links/Attachments/6/50th-FilmPHX Logo-Horizontal-Web-BW.pngCED-LinksLogo
The Future is Phoenixhttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Links/DispForm.aspx?ID=101The Future is Phoenix28https://www.investinphoenix.com/why-phoenix/the-future-is-phoenix_blankGP0|#41a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da;L0|#041a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da|Home Page;GTSet|#a34b90d3-8600-496b-a17d-9e6a6a91b4a4https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Links/Attachments/101/logo-the-future-is-phoenix-black-green.jpgCED-LinksLogo
Phoenix’s Talent Toolkithttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/DynamicPageSections/DispForm.aspx?ID=18Phoenix’s Talent Toolkit<div class="ExternalClassC36519DAA96E4B41B02E6C73E1865AEE"><p>We help companies build competitive teams by leveraging pipelines of upskilled talent, targeted recruiting events, and integrated education partners. Companies can tap Phoenix's workforce ecosystem to secure personnel equipped to sharpen competencies and accelerate strategic priorities.​<br></p></div>30Discover Morehttps://www.investinphoenix.com/workforce_self_selfStaff trainingGP0|#41a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da;L0|#041a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da|Home Page;GTSet|#a34b90d3-8600-496b-a17d-9e6a6a91b4a4https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/DynamicPageSections/Attachments/18/TalentGREEN.jpgColorblockRightGreenBlueBlockRight
Ranked #1 for Manufacturing Growthhttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/DynamicPageSections/DispForm.aspx?ID=509Ranked #1 for Manufacturing Growth<div class="ExternalClassCC9C352ABC0E42ACBFEB8C247D737CAF"><div><div><div class="flex gap-0.5" style="box-sizing:border-box;border-width:0px;border-style:solid;display:flex;"><button class="contents" style="border-width:0px;font-family:inherit;font-size:16px;font-weight:inherit;line-height:inherit;color:inherit;margin:0px;padding:0px;background-color:transparent;background-image:none;cursor:pointer;display:contents;"></button><br>​<p>​<br></p><p>Phoenix ranked first for projected manufacturing job gains by Newmark Group. The report analyzed manufacturing jobs announced, labor pool, and energy costs. Phoenix leads among large metros for manufacturing growth. The Newmark report highlights growth in automotive, biomanufacturing, digitalization, and energy production.<br></p><div><br>​<br></div><p><br></p></div></div></div></div>32See Morehttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Documents/Manufacturing-Momentum_Part-Two_January-2024_Secured.pdf_blank_selfPhoenix Industrial GrowthGP0|#41a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da;L0|#041a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da|Home Page;GTSet|#a34b90d3-8600-496b-a17d-9e6a6a91b4a4https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/DynamicPageSections/Attachments/509/Phoenix-Industrial1.jpgImageLeftBlockLeft
Accelerate Your Businesshttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/DynamicPageSections/DispForm.aspx?ID=378Accelerate Your Business<div class="ExternalClass94672768CFBC40D19BC1DBCF74DBF456"><p></p><p>Tap into robust resources that will allow you to sharpen operations and grow strategically. Our regional support includes financing vehicles, facility modernization incentives, workforce services, and so much more. Phoenix empowers executives with the solutions to optimize ventures now and into the future so decision-makers can propel their organization's advancement.​<br></p></div>35Learn Morehttps://www.investinphoenix.com/grow-expand/state-local-programs_self_selfGP0|#41a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da;L0|#041a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da|Home Page;GTSet|#a34b90d3-8600-496b-a17d-9e6a6a91b4a4https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/DynamicPageSections/Attachments/378/AccelerateBiz.jpgImageRightBlockRight
TSMChttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Hero/DispForm.aspx?ID=22TSMC<div class="ExternalClass7DA3DD5CDA104EB1AC4D831C6E9C45C9"><p>TSMC: Historic U.S. Greenfield FDI​ has signifanctly expanded into Phoenix, creating a full semiconductor supply chain ecosystem. Producing 60% of the world's chips, TSMC delivers top performance for smartphones, cars, satellites, defense systems, and more.<br></p></div>50See Phase One/why-phoenix/success-stories/tsmc_self_selfGP0|#41a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da;L0|#041a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da|Home Page;GTSet|#a34b90d3-8600-496b-a17d-9e6a6a91b4a42https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Hero/Attachments/22/TSMC-BottomHero1.jpegHero
PetSmarthttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Hero/DispForm.aspx?ID=23PetSmart<div class="ExternalClassF3AE658D1F784129863B26CB755514C9"><p>​PetSmart has revolutionized the pet supply industry. With pet companionship growing, PetSmart sees the valley as pivotal to it's continued growth.<br></p></div>51Start Here/why-phoenix/success-stories/petsmart_self_selfGP0|#41a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da;L0|#041a9ade5-c6dd-4fde-b0e5-5e7e8ca254da|Home Page;GTSet|#a34b90d3-8600-496b-a17d-9e6a6a91b4a42https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Hero/Attachments/23/PetSmartBanner.jpgHero

 

 

 

 

City of Phoenix Celebrates Grand Opening of United Foods International Manufacturing Facility https://www.investinphoenix.com/news/82City of Phoenix Celebrates Grand Opening of United Foods International Manufacturing Facility <div class="ExternalClass599954E260604258AE26A93E712CF55D"><p class="p1" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";color:#000000;"><strong>​PHOENIX, Ariz. </strong>– The City of Phoenix joined United Foods International (UFI), local leaders, and regional partners today to celebrate the grand opening of UFI’s new 126,000-square-foot manufacturing facility at the Envision Dobbins 202 West Industrial Park. The new facility strengthens Phoenix’s position as a leading hub for manufacturing and distribution while creating new jobs and expanding production capacity in the region. <br></p><p class="p2" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";min-height:15px;color:#000000;"><br></p><p class="p1" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";color:#000000;">"Phoenix continues to be a top destination for global companies looking to grow,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said. "United Foods International’s decision showcases the growing strength of Japanese investment in our city and reflects the global confidence in Phoenix for the future.” </p><p class="p1" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";color:#000000;">UFI leadership emphasized the strategic advantages that led to the company’s decision to expand in Phoenix. </p><p class="p2" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";min-height:15px;color:#000000;"><br></p><p class="p1" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";color:#000000;">“Phoenix offers everything we need to grow. A strong workforce, a strategic location, and a business environment that supports long term success,” said Take Shimura, President, UFI. “This facility allows us to expand our production and distribution capabilities while continuing to deliver high quality products. We are grateful to the City of Phoenix, the State of Arizona, and our partners for helping bring this project to life.” </p><p class="p2" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";min-height:15px;color:#000000;"><br></p><p class="p1" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";color:#000000;">The state-of-the-art facility will allow UFI to double its liquid production in Arizona and expand its capabilities to meet growing demand for custom food ingredient solutions. The new facility will be capable of processing 8 million gallons of liquid products annually, increasing the total liquid production capability in Arizona to over 13 million gallons per year. Once fully operational, the facility is expected to employ up to 100 people. City leaders pointed to the broader impact of manufacturing investments like UFI. </p><p class="p2" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";min-height:15px;color:#000000;"><br></p><p class="p1" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";color:#000000;">“Projects like this are the result of strong partnerships and intentional planning,” said Ryan Touhill, Director of the City of Phoenix Community and Economic Development Department. “Manufacturing continues to play a critical role in Phoenix’s economic growth, and investments like UFI’s create quality jobs and long-term opportunity for our residents.” </p><p class="p2" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";min-height:15px;color:#000000;"><br></p><p class="p1" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";color:#000000;">“Japan has emerged as one of Greater Phoenix’s key international partners, and the expansion of UFI’s Phoenix presence has been built over several years of collaboration and partnership,” said Greater Phoenix Economic Council President & CEO Christine Mackay. “Since 2021, UFI has experienced first-hand how Greater Phoenix’s operating ecosystem is beneficial to manufacturing and distribution operations; this second facility will help the company continue to expand its U.S. activity." </p><p class="p1" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";color:#000000;"> </p><p class="p1" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";color:#000000;">“We’re proud to celebrate the grand opening of United Foods International’s new facility in Phoenix, showcasing Arizona’s attractiveness for global companies and advanced manufacturing,” said Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. “Arizona and Japan share a commitment to innovation, advanced manufacturing, and economic growth, and UFI’s new facility highlights that successful international collaboration.” </p><p class="p2" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";min-height:15px;color:#000000;"><br></p><p class="p1" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";color:#000000;">UFI’s investment adds to the continued momentum of Phoenix’s manufacturing sector, which spans food production, advanced manufacturing, and logistics. The grand opening event included remarks from UFI leadership and city officials, followed by a ceremonial ribbon cutting and facility tours. <br></p><p class="p1" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";color:#000000;"><br></p><div><strong>Media Contact:</strong></div><div>Athena Sanchez, Senior Public Information Officer</div><div>Phoenix Community and Economic Development Department</div><div>602-621-0507 (call/text)</div><div>Athena.Sanchez@phoenix.gov​</div><p class="p1" style="margin:0px;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-feature-settings:normal;font-stretch:normal;font-size:13px;line-height:normal;font-family:"helvetica neue";color:#000000;"><br></p></div>Group shot of UFI, City and Wilmeng leaders. https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/News/Attachments/82/20260507_211429270_iOS.jpg5/7/2026 10:52:36 PM
Calling Local Businesses: Registration Open for 602 Dayhttps://www.investinphoenix.com/news/81Calling Local Businesses: Registration Open for 602 Day<div class="ExternalClass366630E65948460FA5CFE904697B4703"><div>Join the Phoenix community in celebrating the third annual 602 Day on June 2, 2026! Local businesses and organizations are invited to participate and honor the City’s most iconic and historic area code with special events, deals or discounts.<br></div><div><br></div><div>The event continues to grow significantly year-over-year. The inaugural 602 Day in 2024 included more than 100 businesses, and in 2025, more than 250 entities celebrated 602 Day. Each year, participants saw increased sales and foot traffic – some record setting – during early June. </div><div><br></div><h2>Get Involved</h2><div>Businesses are welcome to celebrate 602 Day in the way that works best for them! Some examples include: </div><div><ul><li>Offering $6.02 specials, 6.02% discounts, or 602-themed items</li><li>Hosting 602 Day activities or events </li><li>Sharing community love on social media</li></ul></div><div><br></div><div>Register at 602Day.com by May 15, 2026 to be featured on the official website, interactive map and marketing campaign.</div><div><br></div><div>Celebrate Phoenix’s unique culture and community spirit on 602 Day. Questions? Contact 602Day@Phoenix.gov. <br></div><div><br></div><div>​Media Contact:<br></div><div>Athena Sanchez, Senior Public Information Officer</div><div>Phoenix Community and Economic Development Department</div><div>602-621-0507 (call/text)​</div><div>Athena.Sanchez@phoenix.gov<br></div><p><br></p></div>Man carrying two drinks in a restaurant. https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/News/Attachments/81/phoenix coqui.jpg4/17/2026 11:06:05 PM
Phoenix Startup Gravitrex Wins Global Innovation Prize at Venture Café’s Pitch2Tokyo Grand Finalhttps://www.investinphoenix.com/news/80Phoenix Startup Gravitrex Wins Global Innovation Prize at Venture Café’s Pitch2Tokyo Grand Final<div class="ExternalClassF53DE3049CD6473A8FF15C85A1A4DB37"><div><strong>​PHOENIX, 27 February 2026:</strong> Phoenix-based startup Gravitrex has secured a major victory on the global stage, bringing home the Japan Prize from the Venture Café Pitch2Tokyo Grand Final. <br></div><div><br></div><div>Representing Venture Café Phoenix, Gravitrex co-founder Kira Burns triumphed over international competition at Venture Café Global Institute’s flagship Global Gathering 2026, held in Tokyo on February 19. The gathering attracted more than 1,200 policymakers, corporate leaders, and innovators from across the globe.</div><div><br></div><div>Gravitrex impressed the judging panel with its breakthrough walking-assist device. The company develops mobility rehabilitation technology that restores walking ability after illness or injury. Their patented mechanical solutions are scalable, cost-effective, and specifically designed to make rehabilitation more accessible to aging adults, stroke patients, and individuals with neurological conditions worldwide.<br></div><div>This major international victory builds on domestic momentum in the US for the Arizona startup. Gravitrex also recently won the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) ALI Shark Tank competition, where it stood out to judges for its creativity, clinical impact, and real-world potential to transform how physical therapists deliver care and improve patient outcomes. The startup has received support from the Arizona-based Partnership for Economic Innovation’s WearTech Applied Research Center, getting critical funding and resources to accelerate the product’s research timeline and path to commercialization.</div><div><br></div><div> “Gaining global recognition at Venture Café’s Pitch2Tokyo Grand Final right on the heels of our APTA Shark Tank win  is incredible validation for the impact Gravitrex can have on patients worldwide,” said Kira Burns, Co-founder and CEO of Gravitrex. “We’re especially honored to receive this recognition from Japan, a global leader in assistive technology. Pitch2Tokyo and the CIC network now provide the bridge to take our innovation global—accelerating the momentum that started in Arizona.”<br></div><div><br></div><div>"Phoenix is building real momentum in biotech, and being in the heart of the Phoenix Bio Core gives us a front-row seat to that growth," added Alex Koupal, Event and Experience Director at Venture Café Phoenix. "While Venture Café Phoenix supports innovation across industries, we’re excited to see leaders like Kira representing the strength of our ecosystem on the global stage—from Phoenix to Tokyo."</div><div><br></div><div>A centerpiece of the organization's annual summit, the Pitch2Tokyo competition is akin to a World Cup of innovation. The final saw 18 regional startup champions from cities across North America, Europe, and Asia fly in to pitch their groundbreaking companies live on stage. </div><div><br></div><div>“The incredible crowd and energy at our Global Gathering shows that when local innovation communities connect, a huge reservoir of potential is unlocked,” said Nathan Plummer, Co-Executive Director of the Venture Café Global Institute. “Innovation may start in a single city, but it requires global connection to truly change the world. Our Pitch2Tokyo winners and finalists aren’t just building companies; they’re answering some of the world’s most critical calls to action, and we’re thrilled to be a launchpad as they expand their reach."</div><div><br></div><div>As a prize winner, Gravitrex will be awarded the CIC Prize, enabling the Arizona startup to leverage CIC's world-class global network of workspaces, laboratories, and innovation campuses to rapidly scale its impact. </div><div><br></div><div>Alongside Kira Burns's Japan Prize victory for Gravitrex, the Pitch2Tokyo CIC Grand Prize was awarded to Yasmin Baba of UK health-tech company Amilis,representing Venture Café London, for its advanced clinical infrastructure platform for gynecologists — unifying diagnostics, imaging, and treatment — to address the female health gap and improve patient outcomes.</div><div><br></div><div>Founded in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 2009, Venture Café is a leading innovation ecosystem activator dedicated to building thriving communities with deep local roots and broad global reach. It has successfully activated 24 innovation ecosystems across the world, including its thriving hub in downtown Phoenix.</div><div><br></div><div style="text-align:center;">​###<br></div><div><br></div><div>Images for Media Use: <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1J5RDUfzkX_R_mElRIP2GB8VERCLbSER0">Download Pitch2Tokyo Phoenix - for Media</a><br></div><div><br></div><div>About Gravitrex: Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Gravitrex is a pioneering medical technology company developing advanced mobility rehabilitation solutions. Designed to restore walking ability after illness or injury, its scalable, cost-effective mechanical devices transform how physical therapists deliver care and improve real-world patient outcomes for aging adults, stroke patients, and individuals with neurological conditions: <a href="https://www.gravitrex.com/">gravitrex.com</a></div><div><br></div><div>About Venture Café Phoenix:</div><div>Venture Café Phoenix connects creators, entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators to make things happen. Through collaborative programming and its signature Gatherings, it serves as a vital hub for Arizona's rapidly growing innovation ecosystem: <a href="https://venturecafephoenix.org./">venturecafephoenix.org. </a><br></div><div><br></div><div>About Venture Café Global Institute: Founded in 2009, Venture Café Global Institute is a leading innovation ecosystem activator on a mission to build thriving communities with local roots and global reach. Through its signature Thursday Gatherings, Venture Café connects more than 100,000 startup founders, investors, researchers and other innovators every year in cities across the globe. Its mission is simple and powerful: connecting innovators to make things happen: <a href="https://venturecafeglobal.org/">venturecafeglobal.org/</a><br></div><div><br></div><div>About Venture Café Global Gathering: A landmark annual event uniting innovation ecosystems from around the world. It brings together startups, investors, corporate leaders, and policymakers to build a global innovation community and foster cross-border collaboration in critical sectors. Global Gathering 2026, hosted at CIC Tokyo, Toranomon Hills Forum and Glass Rock, was anchored by the theme of ‘Collective Impact’. The event was made possible by the support of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government:<a href="https://venturecafeglobal.org/global-gathering-2026/"> venturecafeglobal.org/global-gathering-2026/</a><br></div><div>​<br></div><p><br></p></div>Kara Burns, a woman, accepting her award. https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/News/Attachments/80/gravitix.jpg3/4/2026 6:54:04 PM

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