One year ago, in September 2024, we cut the ribbon on a bold new vision for Gilbert’s entrepreneurs and dreamers: The CATALYST. In partnership with the Town of Gilbert’s Office of Economic Development, the Gilbert Chamber Foundation launched this one-of-a-kind business resource center to empower local business owners, innovators, and residents with the tools, knowledge, and connections they need to thrive.
In just twelve short months, The CATALYST has become a vibrant hub where ideas spark, collaborations form, and growth takes root. Here’s a glimpse at what we’ve accomplished together in year one:
Podcasts with Purpose – Dozens of stories have been recorded in our thoughtfully appointed podcast studio, amplifying the voices of entrepreneurs and community leaders.
Entrepreneurial Spaces – From the virtual meeting room to the content creation suite, local business owners have found professional, accessible places to pitch, plan, and produce.
Workshops that Work – We’ve hosted countless workshops, covering everything from customer service to marketing essentials—helping entrepreneurs sharpen their skills and expand their networks.
Mentorship & Expertise – Through the consultation corner, our community has logged countless hours of one-on-one support, gaining clarity and confidence in their next steps.
Behind each of these milestones are the people who dared to show up—business owners in the ideation stage, community members pursuing a dream, and neighbors curious to explore new opportunities. Their stories remind us why a space like The CATALYST is so vital.
What Our Community Is Saying
The best way to measure success is through the voices of those who have walked through our doors:
“This space is an incredible resource for business owners in Gilbert…I left my first workshop with several actionable takeaways and connections with like-minded entrepreneurs.”
“I find the CATALYST a great tool for my business and its promotion. I work remotely and do not have a brick-and-mortar business in which to pitch prospects, so the space offers me a professional and business-friendly environment. The best part is these resources are available at a no-cost basis, which further encourages its use.”
“The workshop was jam packed with information. I felt like it was time well spent.
“Love the CATALYST. Great resource. Thank you.”
Why Gilbert Needs The CATALYST
Gilbert is one of the fastest-growing communities in the country. With growth comes opportunity—but also the challenge of ensuring that entrepreneurs and small business owners have the support they need to succeed. A community like ours thrives when innovation isn’t limited to those with the most resources, but when everyone has access to guidance, mentorship, and tools that can turn ideas into action.
The CATALYST embodies this belief. It’s more than a building—it’s a promise that in Gilbert, no entrepreneur must walk alone. It’s a space where creativity meets connection, where learning fuels confidence, and where business dreams can take root and grow strong.
As we celebrate this first anniversary, we are filled with gratitude—for our partners at the Town of Gilbert’s Office of Economic Development, for our Chamber Foundation team, and most of all, for the business owners and residents who have made The CATALYST come alive with energy and purpose.
Here’s to year one—and to the many milestones, stories, and successes yet to come.