WMED Partners with Graham and Greenlee Counties to Launch Incubation Bootcamp

Two funding readiness events in May will set the stage for incubation program in Southeastern Arizona.

A powerful new initiative aimed at nurturing entrepreneurship and small business growth is taking root in Southeastern Arizona. White Mountain Economic Development (WMED), in partnership with the Graham Economic Partnership, covering Graham and Greenlee counties, has officially launched a business incubation program based in Safford that is expected to accelerate the growth of early-stage businesses and stimulate long-term economic opportunity.

At the heart of the effort is a six-month incubation boot camp designed to serve six businesses selected from across the region. The program offers customized coaching, expert mentorship, and structured business development support—culminating in a formal pitch presentation in front of community stakeholders.

“This is about more than just supporting small businesses—it’s about building an entrepreneurial ecosystem that’s homegrown, resilient, and designed to last,” said Donald Laughlin, President and CEO of WMED. “Safford and its surrounding communities are ready for this moment, and we’re honored to be part of helping it take shape.”

The boot camp officially kicks off this spring and will offer each selected business monthly one-on-one coaching to help craft and execute tailored 30-, 60-, and 90-day development plans. These plans address a wide range of business-building essentials—including financial planning, staffing strategies, intellectual property considerations, facility and equipment needs, and pathways to growth.

Graham County, Arizona. Courtesy of Graham County Economic Development.

Each company will also develop a professional pitch deck and prepare to present their business model and growth strategy to a community audience at the conclusion of the program. Additional support from Small Business Development Center (SBDC) counselors and other WMED ecosystem mentors will enhance the experience.

All services and resources of the program will be offered at no-cost, although companies will go through a rigid selection process.

In preparation, WMED is sponsoring a two-part capital raising series this May, designed to equip local entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the funding landscape. Each capital event will feature panels of experts—from CPAs to attorneys and bankers—who will offer real-world insights into the capital-raising process.

These sessions will also help identify promising entrepreneurs who are ready to take the next step by entering the incubation program.

“Southeastern Arizona has everything you need to grow a business—strong infrastructure, access to talent, low cost of doing business, and a community that truly supports entrepreneurship,” said Danny Smith, a board member of the Graham Economic Partnership. “It’s the kind of place where big ideas can take root and succeed.”

“We’re not waiting for the opportunity to come to us—this partnership is allowing us to drive rural economic growth right here in Graham County,” he added.

With program activities now underway, Southeastern Arizona is poised to become a regional example of how targeted support for entrepreneurs can ignite broader economic momentum.

Attendees at WMED-hosted Capital Raising event on May 14th, 2025.

If you’re interested in attending the capital events, the first will be held on May 14th, from Noon to 1:30pm. The second will be held on May 27th, from 11:30am to 1pm. Both will take place at the Graham County General Services Building.

To RSVP, contact Donald Laughlin at (602) 919-3539 or dlaughlin@wmedev.org.