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

 

 

Workforce Community of Practice Series: Future of Workforce in Skilled Trades & Apprenticeshipshttps://www.investinphoenix.com/events/61Workforce Community of Practice Series: Future of Workforce in Skilled Trades & Apprenticeships<div class="ExternalClassCE08BF872179433DABDDDC11F2F64E17"><p>​The Phoenix Workforce Coalition invites you to the next session in its Community of Practice series.<br></p><p>This dynamic session will bring together employers, educators, city leaders and workforce partners to co-design the next phase of Phoenix's skilled trades and apprenticeship talent pipeline.<br></p><p>Together we will:<br></p><p>• Explore emerging trends shaping the skilled trades, including technological innovations and evolving labor market demands <br></p><p>• Learn best practices for expanding and strengthening apprenticeship programs <br></p><p>• Participate in interactive solution sessions to develop cross sector commitments and actionable strategies that support training, recruitment​​ and retention in the trades <br></p><p><a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe-w5oxube1713zxYRXBILyjj0jd2KFHAgwRYl737cDoWBg_g/viewform" target="_blank">The event is FREE - register and secure your spot​</a>. <br></p><p><strong>Mark your calendar for these upcoming Community of Practice sessions:</strong><br></p><p>June 25, 2026 - Healthcare (location TBD)​<br></p></div>4/30/2026 7:00:00 AM4/30/2026 3:30:00 PM<div class="ExternalClass54B6281B6DDA407DB69DB87443F9E626"><p>​8:30-11 a.m.<br></p></div>GateWay Community College - Washington Campus108 N. 40th St., Phoenix, AZ 85034https://maps.app.goo.gl/wYsLD3jHHuynxQWXARegister for this FREE event_selfhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe-w5oxube1713zxYRXBILyjj0jd2KFHAgwRYl737cDoWBg_g/viewform<i class="fa-duotone fa-file-lines"></i>Business & Workforce Development Resources_selfhttps://www.investinphoenix.com/workforce/<i class="fa-duotone fa-globe"></i>Contact Usmailto:business.services@phoenix.gov_selfWorkforce Eventhttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/Events/Attachments/61/Workforce Community of Practice Series april.jpg61

 

 

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
Nationally Recognized Healthcare and Business Leaders Convene in Phoenix for Screening of The M Factor 2.0: Before the Pausehttps://www.investinphoenix.com/news/79Nationally Recognized Healthcare and Business Leaders Convene in Phoenix for Screening of The M Factor 2.0: Before the Pause<div class="ExternalClass32AD9B383A8C4CB48937721EAEE0C21B"><p>​PHOENIX, Ariz. – On February 24, healthcare executives, physicians, investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers will gather in Phoenix for a special screening of the documentary film <em>The M Factor 2.0: Before the Pause</em>, followed by a high-level panel discussion exploring the intersection of medicine, technology, workplace policy, and women's health innovation. </p><p>The screening will be held at the Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave., from 5-8 p.m., and is sponsored by the City of Phoenix, HonorHealth, Southwest Medical Imaging (SMIL), BTAC Capital, Arizona State University Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, and The Pause Technologies. The documentary premieres on PBS on March 19.<br></p><p>Building on the global success of the original <em>The M Factor</em> documentary - which was screened internationally and reached millions through digital downloads - <em>The M Factor 2.0: Before the Pause</em> turns its focus to perimenopause, the critical and often overlooked years leading into menopause. The film examines systemic gaps in research, funding, and clinical education, while highlighting the leaders and innovations working to reshape the future of care.</p><p>Perimenopause - the hormonal transition that can begin in a woman's late 30s or early 40s and last up to a decade - affects millions of women during their peak earning and leadership years. Yet it remains one of the least understood and least supported phases of women's health. Research shows that up to 80–90% of women experience symptoms such as sleep disruption, anxiety, cognitive changes, metabolic shifts, and increased cardiovascular risk. In the U.S. alone, menopause-related symptoms are associated with an estimated $1.8 billion annually in lost work productivity, with total workplace and healthcare costs exceeding $26 billion per year, according to findings published in <em>Mayo Clinic Proceedings</em>.</p><p>These numbers underscore a growing national reality: midlife women's health is not only a clinical issue - it is an economic and workforce imperative.</p><p>The film features Susan Sly, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Pause Technologies, headquartered in Phoenix. Voted one of the top women in the world in real-time artificial intelligence, Sly is credited in the film as an AI Ethicist, where she addresses the urgent need for trustworthy and inclusive AI systems in women's healthcare.<br></p><p>"I am grateful to be featured in this film addressing why we cannot build trustworthy AI on faulty or incomplete data," Sly said. "When women are underrepresented in the datasets driving healthcare innovation, the technology itself becomes biased by design. Advancing women's health through AI isn't just a technical challenge, it is my life's mission to ensure these systems are accurate, inclusive, and built to serve women at every stage of life."</p><p>Among the innovations highlighted in the documentary is The Pause app, which leverages clinically informed artificial intelligence to help women interpret symptom patterns, understand potential risk factors, and prepare for more informed conversations with their healthcare providers. In an increasingly crowded digital health landscape, the platform represents a new standard: combining medical oversight with AI-driven clarity to move women from uncertainty to confident action.</p><p>"As a clinician, I work with women every day who are navigating perimenopause and menopause with symptoms that significantly affect their health, cognition, and quality of life," Dr. Mia Chorney, DNP, FNP-BC, MSCP, Co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of The Pause Technologies, said. "These transitions are frequently under-recognized and under-treated in clinical practice. Supporting <em>The M Factor 2</em> is about translating what I see in the exam room into broader awareness, better education, and more effective care for women."</p><p>Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said: "Leaders such as Susan Sly and Dr. Mia Chorney are changing the future of care with The Pause Technologies, a Phoenix-based company revolutionizing women's health through innovative, science-backed, and accessible tools designed to improve their well-being. Thanks to pioneering companies like The Pause, Phoenix is shining bright on the international stage for advancements in biosciences and health care, and we're proud to support their work."<br></p><p>The evening will feature a post-film panel moderated by Greg Barr, Editor at Large of the Phoenix Business Journal, with speakers including:<br></p><ul><li><p>Kim Post, DNP, Chief Operating Officer, HonorHealth<br></p></li><li><p>Megan Stuff, Chief Operating Officer, Southwest Medical Imaging (SMIL)</p></li><li><p>Tammy McLeod, PhD, President and Chief Executive Officer, Flinn Foundation<br></p></li><li><p>Dr. Mia Chorney, DNP, FNP-BC, MSCP, Co-founder and Chief Medical Officer, The Pause Technologies</p></li><li><p>Jennifer Simone, MD, Women's Service Line Chair, Honor Health Network</p></li><li><p>Dr. Katherine (Kathy) Kenny, DNP, RN, ANP-BC, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, Arizona State University Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation</p></li><li><p>Dr. John Shufeldt, MD, JD, MBA, FACEP, Distinguished Professor of Practice, Arizona State University; Emergency Physician and Healthcare Entrepreneur<br></p></li><li><p>Melissa Lamson, Executive Vice President for Venture Development and Innovation Strategy, Arizona Commerce Authority<br></p></li><li><p>Dr. Mitzi Krockover, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Woman Centered, LLC; Managing Director, Golden Seeds<br></p></li></ul><p>Together, these leaders will examine how healthcare systems, employers, investors, and policymakers can better support women navigating one of the most biologically complex and professionally demanding stages of life.</p><p>"Like many women, throughout my life I have taken on many roles - a mom, nurse, and healthcare executive," Kim Post, DNP, Chief Operating Officer at HonorHealth, said. "I've seen firsthand how women's midlife health is often overlooked, especially during menopause transitions. That's why we're proud to support The M Factor 2 and help spark honest conversations that empower women to understand their bodies and advocate for their health. Women's health is community health."</p><p>Judith Karshmer, PhD, PMHCNS-BC, FAAN, Dean and Professor at the Arizona State University Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, said: "For too long, menopause has been treated as something women should simply endure rather than understand and manage with proper care and support. By sponsoring this film, we reinforce our commitment to women's health, evidence-based education, and open conversations that lead to better outcomes."<br></p><p>"As a woman in my 40s, this is one of the most demanding seasons of life," Megan Stuff, Chief Operating Officer of SMIL, said. "Yet so many women navigate this stage without enough education or support. I'm proud to stand behind a film that moves this conversation forward."</p><p><strong>Media Contact:</strong><br><a href="mailto:hello@thepause.ai">hello@thepause.ai​</a><br></p></div>The documentary film The M Factor 2.0: Before the Pausehttps://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/News/Attachments/79/Featured-The-M-Factor-2-Before-The-Pause-Exclusive-Screening.jpg2/20/2026 8:54:03 PM

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