Celebrating a Milestone

On May 12, 2025, The CATALYST Business Resource Center in Downtown Gilbert opened its doors to the community with a vibrant and engaging inaugural open house. The event welcomed approximately 40 guests who explored the newly renovated space, interacted with local sponsors and vendors, and participated in interactive activities designed to showcase the center's offerings.

The open house featured nine local sponsors and vendors, each presenting their unique products and services. Attendees received a "passport" to guide them through the event; collecting signatures from each vendor made them eligible for a drawing to win a basket filled with delightful prizes. Adding an element of surprise, two golden tickets were hidden within the Business Resource Center, and the lucky finders were awarded generous gift certificates to local businesses.

Melanie Nemetz, Real Estate Agent, was one of the participating sponsors and shared her enthusiasm:

"Participating as a vendor at The CATALYST's inaugural open house on May 12, 2025, was an incredibly rewarding experience. The energy, organization, and community engagement exceeded my expectations. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with attendees and fellow vendors alike. I'm grateful to have been part of such a dynamic event and look forward to future collaborations."

The CATALYST is a collaborative initiative between the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the Town of Gilbert's Office of Economic Development. Located at 119 N. Gilbert Road, Suite 102, this comprehensive business resource center is designed to support entrepreneurs and small businesses at every stage of their journey—from initial ideation to growth and eventual transition.

The center offers a variety of resources and services, including:

• Professional Development and Training: Workshops, webinars, and seminars led by industry experts to enhance business skills.
• Onsite Resources: Facilities such as an Audio and Advice Room, Content Creation Suite, Consultation Corner, and Virtual Meeting Room, all equipped to support various business needs.
• Mentorship Matching: Connecting businesses with experienced local mentors for personalized guidance in areas like marketing, finance, and operations.
• Gilbert HUUB Platform: An online community offering on-demand business tips, expert consultations, and a booking portal for services.

The establishment of The CATALYST is the culmination of years of collaboration and input from the local business community. It serves as a centralized hub, simplifying access to essential tools, training, and mentorship for Gilbert's entrepreneurs and small businesses.

The success of the inaugural open house marks just the beginning for The CATALYST. With a calendar of upcoming events and workshops, the center is poised to become a cornerstone for business development in Gilbert. Entrepreneurs and small business owners are encouraged to engage with The CATALYST's offerings, whether through attending events, utilizing onsite resources, or connecting via the Gilbert HUUB platform.

For more information about The CATALYST and to explore available resources, visit www.catalystgilbert.com