Arizona European Entrepreneurship Award

The Arizona–European Young Entrepreneur Award recognizes outstanding founders building innovative, scalable companies in Arizona while maintaining meaningful connections to the European ecosystem. Finalists and the winner are selected by an independent Awardee Committee composed of leaders from business, academia, and the European Chamber community.

Join the Next Generation of European‑Connected Founders

Join the inaugural Arizona–European Young Entrepreneur Award Ceremony—an invite‑only evening spotlighting innovation, impact, and transatlantic entrepreneurship.

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Eligibility Requirements

Nomination process: You can apply for yourself or for someone else.
Applicant must be under 40 years of age
Applicants must demonstrate clear European ties (citizenship, dual nationality, heritage, or trade/investment activities) – European ties include UK, Switzerland, and other non-EU countries
The applicant’s company must be headquartered in Arizona.

Evaluation Criteria

Innovation: Uniqueness and creativity of the business model
Viability and Scalability: Demonstrated growth potential and market traction
Arizona Integration: Relevance and active participation in Arizona's business ecosystem
Positive Impact: Significant contributions to local communities and the environment
European Connection: Meaningful ties to the European continent

Award Ceremony and Recognition

Finalists will be honored at an exclusive ceremony on 02/12/2026 at the Irish Cultural Center in downtown Phoenix, Arizona. During this high-profile event, the winner will be officially announced in the presence of Arizona’s leading business figures and representatives of the European diplomatic community.

The occasion offers a unique platform to gain recognition, support, and strategic connections that can significantly shape the future of your business.

Co-Organized By

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Program

6:00 PM

Official start time – Networking reception

6:30 PM

Master of Ceremony: Ciara Wittkowski, Director of Operations, Irish Cultural Center

• Welcome remarks by Irish Cultural Center Representative

• Remarks by Arizona Commerce Authority Representative
• Remarks by Christine Mackay, President & CEO, Greater Phoenix Economic Council
• Presentation of the initiative and Awardee Committee by Massimo Sommacampagna, Arizona Italian Chamber of Commerce
• Awardee Announcement & Award Presentation
• Check presentation by SRP, Award Sponsor
• Awardee acceptance remarks
• Sponsor recognition

7:15 PM

Networking reception resumes

8:00 PM

Event concludes

Christine Mackay to Deliver Remarks at the Arizona European Entrepreneurship Award

We are pleased to announce that Christine Mackay, President & CEO of Greater Phoenix Economic Council, will be giving remarks at the Arizona European Entrepreneurship Award. Christine Mackay, President & CEO, Greater Phoenix Economic Council With nearly three decades of economic development experience, Christine Mackay began service with the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) as President & CEO in October 2025 after serving as the City of Phoenix Community and Economic D