The CATALYST Gilbert's Business Resource Center
Gilbert Office of Economic Development has launched the National Business Survey to secure valuable input and feedback on the priorities of Gilbert’s business community. The survey is conducted every two years to gauge the economic health and business needs in the Town and is designed to provide comprehensive feedback across six core indicators including: community amenities, business climate, employment opportunities and workforce support, workforce readiness, business growth and governance.TAKE SURVEY
The CATALYST is a comprehensive technical assistance and resource center designed to support Gilbert businesses at every stage of their lifecycle, from initial ideation to eventual exit. Presented in partnership between the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce Foundation and Gilbert's Office of Economic Development, the CATALYST serves as a centralized point of access, seamlessly connecting businesses with the vast array of programs, services, and expertise available through various regional entities. Whether you're an entrepreneur with a fresh idea or an established business looking to scale or transition, The CATALYST provides the tools, guidance, and support you need to navigate the complexities of business growth and development.
Programs and services focus on one or more of these pillars:
- Professional Development
- Business Basics
- Business Startup
- Business Growth
- Leadership and Management
Not sure where to start? Complete this intake form on the Gilbert HUUB platform and share what kind of support you are looking for, and we will connect you with resources.
Programs and Services
Training, Education, and Technical Assistance
The CATALYST is committed to empowering Gilbert businesses by offering a continuous series of workshops, webinars, and seminars, all led by industry experts with specialized knowledge in various fields.
- Workshops—These in-person sessions are designed to support businesses, from startups to established enterprises, at every stage of their journey. Businesses can gain valuable insights into the latest trends, strategies, and best practices by participating in these sessions.
Click here to view and register for upcoming workshops hosted in person at The CATALYST.
- Gilbert HUUB—This free platform is a town-wide online community and resource center for small businesses brought together by the Town of Gilbert. Packed with free on-demand business tips from local experts and a 24/7 booking portal to hire the experts on your own time, you will never feel stuck again.
Join HUUB today!
Onsite Resources
The CATALYST is a space designed to support Gilbert businesses and makes available the use of these resources:
- Audio and Advice Room— This versatile multi-purpose audio and advice room is ideal for hosting podcasts, recording audio content, or holding private consultations.The layout is intimate yet functional, comfortably seating up to four people around a central table. Gilbert businesses can reserve this room for various purposes, offering a quiet, well-equipped space that adapts to their needs.
COMING SOON! The Audio and Advice room will be equipped with professional-grade podcasting equipment, including high-quality microphones, headphones, and soundproofing to ensure clear, crisp recordings.
- Content Creation Suite — COMING SOON! The content creation suite is a dynamic space that empowers Gilbert businesses to produce high-quality audio, photo, and video content. This suite offers a versatile environment with natural lighting and all the essential resources and equipment needed to bring creative projects to life. This room provides physical resources and equipment for businesses to create audio, photo, and video content.
- Consultation Corner— This room is a flexible workspace designed to host consultations offered by our resource partners and experts. Gilbert businesses needing a temporary office environment may reserve each desk by the hour. The room provides a quiet and productive setting for solo work or small group collaboration, accommodating up to four guests. Users must provide their own equipment.
- Virtual Meeting Room —The Virtual Meeting Room is a dedicated, quiet, and private space for Gilbert businesses to conduct virtual meetings seamlessly. It is perfect for video conferences, remote team meetings, or virtual consultations, offering a distraction-free environment that ensures professionalism and focus.
COMING SOON! The Virtual Meeting Room will be enhanced to include soundproofing to block out external noise, creating a serene setting ideal for clear communication. A high-definition webcam, a large, wall-mounted monitor, and a microphone and speaker system ensure that both audio input and output are crisp and clear, allowing for smooth conversations without any technical hitches.
Mentorship Matching
The CATALYST provides a unique service that connects businesses with local industry professionals who are matched based on specific needs and interests. By tapping into a diverse network of experienced mentors, the program ensures that participants receive personalized guidance on a wide range of topics relevant to their growth and development. The CATALYST maintains an extensive database of mentors, each offering expertise and support across various areas, including marketing, finance, operations, and more. This matching service is free of charge, making it an accessible resource for businesses seeking to enhance their capabilities and achieve their goals with the help of seasoned professionals.
Looking for a business mentor? Complete this form and a representative will get in touch!
Become a mentor! Do you have expertise on a topic or profession? Complete this form to be added to our database.
Consultative Services
The CATALYST commits space for one-on-one consultations from experts representing resource partners, including:
- SCORE - SCORE can help you start, grow or successfully exit a business. Small business owners who receive three or more hours of mentoring report higher revenues and increased growth. All consultations are free of charge. Learn more.
To reserve your session, contact Gregory Gaines at (949)-572-7700 or email gregory.gaines@scorevolunteer.org.
- Small Business Development Center - The Maricopa SBDC plays a vital role in Arizona’s economic development by assisting entrepreneurs in every stage of the business life cycle. SBDC offers business counseling provided at no cost, training, and business research; the Maricopa SBDC also provides a comprehensive array of specialized services for qualifying businesses looking to accelerate market growth, including Growth Acceleration, International Trade, and Government Contracting. Learn more.
To reserve your session, contact George Kimble at george.kimble@domail.maricopa.edu.
- Ask the Expert Office Hours—COMING SOON! These Office Hours will be published on our events calendar and will feature onsite one-on-one and group consultative sessions delivered by experts on a variety of topics. Drop in during the published time to meet with the expert onsite.
Not sure where to start? Complete this intake form on the Gilbert HUUB platform and share what kind of support you are looking for, and we will connect you with resources.
Questions? Contact Nikki Cost at (480) 941-6329 or nikki@gilbertchamber.com