Black entrepreneurs in Arizona can build their business skills through a program offered by Local First Arizona. 

The We Rise accelerator is a free program for Black entrepreneurs who have some experience running a business and need help with growth. 

Applications are being accepted through Thursday, June 30. Online classes will meet twice a month and cover topics like finance, business models, strategic plans and networking. Outside of class, participants are expected to spend two to four hours a week completing assignments.

Local First recruits Black business owners and professionals as mentors to work with participants.

A 2020 study by consulting firm McKinsey & Company said building supportive ecosystems could be critical to reducing the Black-white wealth gap while increasing the nation's gross domestic product. 

In 2013, Local First launched the Fuerza Local Business Accelerator program for Spanish-preferred business owners.