Global Manufacturing in Arizona: MTD Products at AZIGG Jan 11th

The next AZIGG event is January 11th at ASU-SkySong and will feature the Chandler-based President of MTD Southwest Phil Clouse. MTD Products manufactures well known brands of power equipment like Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt and MTD. Phil will discuss how their manufacturing in Arizona and Nogales beat an alternative plan to manufacture in China.

"Global Manufacturing Can Succeed in Arizona If..."

Phil Clouse - President of MTD Southwest

Arizona International Growth Group

Monday, January 11th, 7:30 - 9:00am

Networking starts at 7:00am

ASU SkySong

Investment: $15 includes coffee and pastries

RSVP Here: www.azigg.com

MTD maintains their global headquarters for handheld products in Chandler, Arizona. The MTD family of brands includes Cub Cadet, Cub Cadet Yanmar, Troy-Bilt, White Outdoor, Yard-Man, Yard Machines, Bolens, Arnold, GardenWay and MTD Pro.

President of MTD Southwest Phil Clouse will be discussing how the Arizona division was able to successfully put together a business case for manufacturing outdoor power equipment in their plant here and in Nogales instead of in China. Many of those success factors can be translated to other manufacturers in Arizona looking to compete and win in the global marketplace. Phil will be joined by Director of Manufacturing Stanton Knight, and he will be sharing his overall perspective on how manufacturing in Arizona can compete.

Phil Clouse has 20 years of diverse manufacturing and management experience with multi-site, multi-functional and P&L oversight in sophisticated, global operations. He has a CPIM certification and MBA from the University of Akron. Before MTD, Phil held senior executive positions at Newell Rubbermaid and The Little Tikes Company

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Dec 7th AZIGG Photos; Next AZIGG Jan 11th

At the December 7th Arizona International Growth Group (AZIGG) event at ASU-SkySong, Haru Yamasaki, CEO of TechBA (Technology Business Accelerators) presented on the new program. Arizona has one of six TechBA locations in the world - joining Madrid, Montreal, Michigan, Silicon Valley and Austin last year.

TechBA is a program supporting top-tier companies based in Mexico so that they can bring their innovative technology, products and services to global markets. TechBA works with companies in Information Technology and Telecommunications, Automotive, Aerospace, Food, Advanced Materials, Alternative Energy, Multimedia, Gaming and Life Sciences.

Picture above: Hector Correa of Orinoco Systems. To his right, Leonardo Hernandez (Grupo Hergo), Haru Yamasaki (TechBA) and Arturo Freydig (ECN Automation). More pictures coming soon to the AZIGG website. All photography at AZIGG is by the best business photographer in Metropolitan Phoenix: Laird Brown of Small Business Photo www.smallbusinessphoto.com

Additional pictures are posted on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=168242&id=699598645&saved#/album.php?aid=168242&id=699598645

The next AZIGG event is January 11th at ASU-SkySong and will feature the President of MTD Products Phil Clouse. MTD Products manufacture high profile power tools like Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt and MTD, and they are based in Chandler. Phil will discuss how their manufacturing in Arizona and Nogales beat an alternative plan to manufacturer in China.

Thank you! All the best, Doug (AZIGG)

AZIGG, Inman, China, Solar and More Dec 2009

This next week is a busy one for internationalists in Arizona. It starts with Admiral Bobby Inman at PCFR with "Inman's View of the World". When he spoke a couple years ago here it was the most extraordinary discussion because he KNOWS the world - the history, the current state and a well-grounded view of the future.

Here is a summary of global info in Arizona courtesy of AZIGG, followed by additional information on Bobby Inman.

Enjoy "Inman's View of the World" December 2nd in PV
Admiral Bobby Inman circles the globe in about an hour. Not to be missed. At Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations www.pcfraz.org

"Hola Arizona: Technology Business Accelerator (TechBA)" at AZIGG 12/7
Haru Yamasaki, CEO of TechBA, is responsible for establishing and growing the Arizona division of TechBA, a program supporting top-tier companies based in Mexico to bring their innovative technology, products and services to global markets. There are 14 companies in the first group based at SkySong. RSVP at www.azigg.com

China Town Hall with Sidney Rittenberg December 8th in Scottsdale
Sidney has known every Chinese leader in the past 50 years. RSVP to Sue (see below) and more info www.wacaz.org

Invest Southwest December 9-11 in Scottsdale
This is the premier capital conference in Arizona, since 1992. Keynote speaker Michael Moe Finding the Next Starbucks and much more. See below.

SRP Announces a New Project, More Solar for the Valley
Salt River Project will build a 20-megawatt photovoltaic facility southeast of Phoenix with Iderdrola Renewables. SRP and Iberdrola have a partnership that extends to the Dry Lake Wind Farm, a 63-megawatt wind farm built on a combination of public and private land. SRP to Build 20-megawatt Solar Facility Near Phoenix


More on the Admiral Inman event December 2nd:

Jules Verne took eighty days to go around the world. Admiral Bobby Inman will make that happen for us in a little less than an hour. His unique encyclopedic eagle's eye view of every hot spot on the planet was sharpened during his domestic and global naval career from 1951 until 1982, and culminated when he served as Director of the National Security Agency, and Deputy Director of Intelligence.

After his retirement from the U.S. Navy with the rank of Admiral, he became Chairman and CEO of the Microelectronics and Computer Technology Corporation (MCC) in Austin, Texas for four years, and then Chairman, President and CEO of Westmark Systems, Inc, a privately owned electronics industry holding company for three years. In addition Admiral Inman also served as Chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas from 1987 through 1990.

He continues to be influential in strategic advisory roles, notably as Chair of the Commission on Improving Security at the U.S. Foreign Installations, following the bombing of the Marine barracks and the April 1983 U.S. embassy bombing in Beirut, Lebanon. His commission's report has been influential in setting security design standards for U.S. Embassies worldwide.

Since 1990, one of Admiral Inman's primary activities has been investing in startup technology companies in the role of Managing Director of Definor Ventures and Limestone Ventures. He is a member of the board of Directors of Massey Energy Company, as well as of several privately held companies, and serves as a Trustee of the American Assembly of the California Institute of Technology. He is an elected Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration.

Admiral Inman graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1950 and from the National War College in 1972. In 1987 he returned to Austin as adjunct professor at his alma mater. In 2001 he was appointed as a tenured professor, holding the Lyndon B. Johnson Centennial Chair in National Policy. Subsequently he served as Interim Dean of the LBJ School of Public Affairs from January to December in 2005, and again was appointed Interim Dean for a second time in 2009.

The Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations is honored to host Admiral Inman whenever he is here in Phoenix. Please Join Us! Cost: $48 for Members, $58 for Non-Members (by 11/30/09 after add $10) PLEASE REGISTER ONLINE at www.pcfraz.org Or call 602-494-4198.

All the best, Doug Bruhnke

Hola! Next AZIGG Event December 7th 7:30am - 9:00am

Hola Arizona: Technology Business Accelerator at AZIGG 12/7

On the morning of December 7th Haru Yamasaki will discuss the Technology Business Accelerator program that is based at ASU SkySong - one of 6 programs like it around the world. We'll be joined by many of the 14 companies that are involved in this unique technology initiative.

"Hola Arizona: Technology Business Accelerator (TechBA)"
Monday, December 7th, 7:30am - 9:00am
Networking starts at 7:00am
ASU SkySong, Scottsdale (SE Corner Scottsdale/McDowell, 1st Floor)

Haru Yamasaki, CEO of TechBA, is responsible for establishing and growing the Arizona division of TechBA, a program that supports top-tier Mexican companies to bring their innovative technology, products and services to global markets. There are 14 companies going through the program in Arizona. Haru holds a Masters in Science and Technology Policy from University of Sussex, UK and a Bachelor of Industrial Engineering from the National University of Mexico. She has held consulting and internal leadership positions in both private and public organizations across a broad range of industries including health care, government, higher education and petrochemical manufacturing.

Special guests: Tech BA company leaders such as Arturo Freydig of ECN Automation.

TechBA is a program operated by the US - Mexico Foundation for Science. The mission is to find the most innovative technology companies and take them to global markets. To accomplish that, TechBA has branches in the most innovative business ecosystems in the world: Silicon Valley, Austin, Montreal, Madrid, Michigan and Arizona. TechBA works with companies in Information Technology and Telecommunications, Automotive, Aerospace, Food, Advanced Materials, Alternative Energy, Multimedia, Gaming and Life Sciences.

Investment $15 includes coffee and pastries. RSVP: www.azigg.com

Finding and Serving Global Customers from Arizona - AZIGG 11/2

We are pleased to have an expert panel of Phoenix-area business leaders who are growing their companies by finding and serving large global customers. The discussion is Monday, November 2nd.

Jon Enwiller - Executive Director of The AIT Group

"Finding and Serving Global Customers from Arizona"
Monday, November 2nd, 7:30 - 9:00am
Networking starts at 7:00am
ASU SkySong, Scottsdale (SE Corner Scottsdale/McDowell)

Jon Enwiller - Executive Director, The AIT Group
Shashi Jasthi - President and CEO, Solugenix Corporation
Susan Cordts - President and CEO, Adaptive Technologies

Shashi Jasthi - President and CEO of Solugenix Corporation

Moderator: Doug Bruhnke - AZIGG and Growth Nation
Investment $15 includes coffee and pastries
RSVP for 11/2

Susan Cordts - President and CEO of Adaptive Technologies

Join Susan Cordts, Shashi Jasthi and Jon Enwiller on November 2nd at ASU SkySong for our next Arizona International Growth Group event. Thank you. Doug Bruhnke (AZIGG and Growth Nation)

Recap of Rod Miller at AZIGG

Rod Miller of The Jiao Group delivered his 3rd Annual Report Card for International Business in Arizona. You can see his presentation soon at http://www.azigg.com/events.html

A primary theme of Rod's presentation was that Arizona needs to more effectively plan and coordinate efforts to attract Foreign Direct Investment.

Most recent data has Arizona ranked #18 in the US for global trade and #26 for Foreign Direct Investment. If Arizona could improve Foreign Direct Investment to be #18, it would mean 80,000 more jobs with approximate average wages 30% above the current average.

Rod suggested that local group work in a more integrated way, including: The Governor's office, GPEC, AZIGG, Arizona Department of Commerce, ASU and the University of Arizona.

Thanks to Bart Butler for helping with the event. Check out the pictures below from our group photographer Laird Brown (www.smallbusinessphoto.com).

Thank you Rod Miller! Have you heard about his new firm The Jiao Group? Here's more information:

The Jiao Group is a management consulting firm specializing in economic development strategies, public and private partnerships, workforce development strategies, business development solutions, strategic planning, international deal brokering and market penetration approaches. Whether your firm is an organization seeking to work with local government to develop real estate, a small business growing revenues from $5 million to $10 million, a local government building international partnerships for economic development, or a non-profit assessing how to better deliver on your mission regardless of the macroeconomic condition, The Jiao Group can focus, clarify, and assist you in implementing your vision immediately.

Jiao is the Mandarin symbol for interaction and connectivity. We pride ourselves on our high level of interaction with our clients, connectivity to the right resources, balanced thought in our approach to problem-solving, and ability to garner unquestionable results. With The Jiao Group you can rest assured that your vision, dedication, and goals will be earned through specific, actionable plans and strategies built for your success.

The Jiao Group is poised to handle complex situations with skill and leadership. We bring additional perspective and fresh viewpoints gathered from senior level management in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. We want you to be successful and believe that our success is inextricably linked to yours.

Connecting with Global Companies from Phoenix - 11/2

Thanks for Rod Miller for a wonderful AZIGG event on 10/5 - we'll have more information and pictures shortly. Also his presentation will be posted at www.azigg.com soon.

In November we have another interesting international program.

Next AZIGG Event - Monday, November 2nd, 7:30 - 9:00am
"Finding and Serving Global Clients from Arizona"
Panel Discussion Featuring:

• Jon Enwiller, Executive Director of The AIT Group
• Shashi Jasthi, President of Solugenix Corporation
• Susan Cordts, CEO of Adaptive Technologies, Inc (ATi)

Moderator Doug Bruhnke
Doors open 7:00am for Networking
Investment $15 includes coffee and pastries.

Phoenix, Arizona is not known for having its share of large global companies. Jon Enwiller (The AIT Group), Shashi Jasthi (Solugenix Corporation) and Susan Cordts (ATi) discuss successfully finding and serving global customers from the Valley of the Sun on Monday, November 2nd from 7:30am to 9am at ASU SkySong.

RSVP at www.azigg.com
Arizona State University – SkySong, Suite 1391475 N Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale


Jon Enwiller (The AIT Group)
Jon Enwiller is a founding member and Executive Director of The AIT Group. Jon has successfully implemented over 30 Lean implementations in aerospace, automotive and consumer products industries resulting in significant client savings. Clients include DuPont, Exxon Mobil, Siemens, Honeywell, Avery Dennison, Sanofi Aventis, Delphi Automotive and many other global companies.

Prior to founding The AIT Group, Jon was Operations Manager for AlliedSignal Aerospace where he led Lean production implementations in machining areas, assembly and test areas, and supporting administrative process areas, and was part of the initial work to integrate Lean and Six Sigma for AlliedSignal. Jon has an MBA with emphasis in operations management from Arizona State University (ASU) and a BS in mechanical engineering from ASU.

Shashi Jasthi (Solugenix Corporation)
As President and CEO of Solugenix Corporation, Shashi Jasthi is responsible for driving global client and partner value through innovative technology and business solutions. Shashi has over 20 years of experience managing Information Technology and Consulting organizations. He built IT organizations and turned around loss-making acquisitions in Chicago, IL, Phoenix, AZ, Provo, UT, Wellington, New Zealand, and Sydney, Australia. He joined Solugenix in 1992 and after a brief hiatus in early 2000, he came back to lead the company. Solugenix is a global technology services company with major clients in North America and beyond.

Shashi holds an MBA from the University of Chicago in Chicago, IL, an MS in Computer Science from Northwestern University, in Evanston, IL, and a Bachelor of Technology degree in Electronics Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology in Chennai, India.

Susan Cordts (Adaptive Technologies)
Susan Cordts provides the leadership and vision that enables Adaptive Technologies, Inc. to continuously exceed global customer expectations. ATi has been providing expert solutions to customers across industries in the area of advanced analytics and technologies since 2001. Susan’s management and leadership demonstrate a continuous track record of success helping businesses repeatedly achieve their goals. Examples of projects she has led have resulted in increased performance, often times reaching triple digit improvements.

Prior to joining ATi, Susan was CEO and Managing Director of Universal Robot Systems, LLC. She has extensive international business experience and more than 15 years healthcare senior management experience. Susan was responsible for directing the marketing activities of one of the largest cardiovascular programs to all physicians, patients, providers and the community through a campaign of direct marketing and mass media. Her accomplishments also extend to creating one of the top CV programs in the nation for hospitals of like size, while leading market share in North Texas and Southern Oklahoma. She received her AD in Nursing, a BA in Marketing from Midwestern State University, and a Masters in International Management (MIM) from Thunderbird, The Garvin School of International management.

Rod Miller at AZIGG on October 5th

Rodrick Miller returns to AZIGG for the 3rd year to tell us what's really happening with global trade and how business owners in Arizona can benefit. He will deliver a report cards on how Arizona is doing with Foreign Direct Investment and global commerce.

Rodrick Miller
Managing Partner, The Jiao Group

Raising Arizona - Growing Globally
An International Report Card

Monday, October 5th, 7:30am - 9:00am
Networking starts at 7:00am
ASU-SkySong, Scottsdale
Investment $15 RSVP
www.azigg.com



All the best, Doug Bruhnke (AZIGG)

Thank you - US Asia Expo Arizona

Thank you to everyone who participated in the US-Asia Expo Arizona. We featured a litany of top notch speakers including CEO Shashi Jasthi of Solugenix Corporation and Andy Bogdanoff of Remington Financial Group.

Here is a wrap-up by Max Jarman of the Arizona Republic:

http://www.azcentral.com/business/articles/2009/09/18/20090918biz-expo0919.html

And some initial comments about the Expo held September 17-18th in Scottsdale:

"Thank you for including me in the Arizona-Asia Expo! It was a remarkable program, and the organizers deserve enormous credit. I thought it represented a milestone in Phoenix’s evolution." - Dee Harris, President of Arizona Angels

"I had a wonderful trip, this conference is a very successful one, thank you for your great effort. Thank you very much for having me in the conference, if there is anything that I can be of helpful in the future, please do not hesitate to let me know." - Dr. Lin Yang, President of YL International, Shanghai

"The US-Asia Expo Arizona was a highly successful program...I believe that this event will foster friendship, commerce and profit for many Arizona citizens whether they were in attendance today or not...Thank you all!” - Greg Marks, President of Intramedia Solutions

"Great event. I can always count on meeting a diverse group of area leaders and the last two days didn't disappoint." - Paul Kingsley, Principal at Kingsley Law

"Thanks to the US-Asia Arizona Expo I am planning to move my business to Arizona within two years." - Lanny Louie, Owner, ICG Connect

"I am very impressed with the solar-energy technology, and I see opportunities to invest. I would like to see more collaboration between US and Chinese Companies." - Zhu XinYuan, President of Renhe New Technnology Company, Zhonglu, China

All the best, Doug Bruhnke

US-Asia Expo Arizona Final Agenda

Welcome to the US-Asia Expo Arizona Thursday, September 17.

11:30 - 12:30 Registration and Exhibitor Tables
Location: Camelback Inn- Cholla and Sunshine Rooms
Presentations and Panel Discussions through 4:45pm

12:30 pm - 1:00 pm Expo Opening Ceremony
Emcees- John Adam and Doug Bruhnke
Welcome - City of Phoenix
Special Introduction - Barry Broome, GPEC
Recap - Sept 6-8 China Mission: Don Cardon, AZ Commerce
Recap - Sept 10-12 LA Forum: Brent Barker, Strata Capital

1:00 pm - 1:55 pm "Growing Global Commerce to/from Arizona"
Glenn Hamer, Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Barry Broome, Greater Phoenix Economic Council
Steve Zylstra, Arizona Technology Council
Don Cardon, Arizona Department of Commerce
Moderator: Susan Shultz, Oakbridge/SSA & The Board Institute

Special Contributors:
Dennis Cornelius, Cornelius, Korte & Shum
Dr. Lin Yang, YL International & GPITA

1:55 pm - 2:40 pm "Learning from Arizona's Global Business Leaders"
Shashi Jasthi, Solugenix Corporation
Kiyoko Toyama, NKK Switches
Frank Neville, Thunderbird Global School of Management
Eric Nielsen, US Commercial Service
Moderator: Haru Yamasaki, Technology Business Accelerators

2:40 pm - 2:55 pm Break

2:55 pm - 3:50 pm "Investing in Successful Global Commerce"
Terree Wasley, ASU Technopolis and Invest Southwest
Dee Harris, Arizona Angels
Andy Bogdanoff, Remington Financial Group
Jay St. Clair, Windstone Capital Partners
Moderator: Chet S. Ross, SCORE Arizona

3:50 pm - 4:40 pm "Legal Implications for Going Global"
Karen Dickinson, Quarles & Brady, LLP
Brett Johnson, Snell & Wilmer, LLP
Ezequiel Hernandez, Fragomen, LLP
Steve Beaver, TPI Composites
Moderator: Ed Bull, Burch & Cracchiolo, P.A.

4:45 Expo Ends

5:30pm - 8:00pm VIP Networking

US-Asia Expo Arizona
The Expo is presented by Arizona Asia Commission and will feature the top business, investment and community leaders in the Valley. More: http://www.azigg.com/events_pages/200909-event.html

Expo Chairman Level Sponsor
Hypercom

Expo CEO Level Sponsors
First American Stock Transfer
EIGHT, Arizona's PBS KAET TV
Interstate Bank Developers
Focus One Entertainment
Growth Nation

Expo Presidential Level Sponsors
RSM McGladrey
Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy, LLP
Snell & Wilmer, LLP
Strata Capital Group
Laird Brown Photography

Program Sponsors
P.F. Chang's

Expo Partners
Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC)
US Commercial Service
Arizona District Export Council
Arizona International Growth Group (AZIGG)
Thunderbird School of Global Management
City of Phoenix
City of Scottsdale
Arizona Department of Commerce
Arizona Technology Council
Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations
World Affairs Council of Arizona
The John Adam Show
Networking Phoenix.com
Greater Phoenix SCORE

Exhibitors
Alpha Group Administrators
Arizona State University
EIGHT – Arizona’s PBS, KAET TV
First American Stock Transfer
Focus One Entertainment
Fragomen, Del Reg, Bernsen & Loewy, LLP
Go1099.com
Greater Phoenix SCORE
Hypercom
ICG Connect
Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations
Rowpar Pharmaceuticals
RSM McGladrey
Singapore
Sonoran Bank
TechBA
The Social Media Bible
US Commercial Service
US Distressed Debt Fund
Vietnam Trade Office
World Affairs Council of Arizona

All the best, Doug (Growth Nation and AZIGG)

China and India at the US-Asia Expo Arizona Sept 17-18

Focusing on the ever-growing India and China markets as key sources of new capital for Arizona economic expansion, the US-Asia Expo Arizona will be held on Thursday and Friday September 17-18, at the Camelback Inn in Scottsdale.

In cooperation with local organizations and businesses for the exchange of ideas and the development of global business opportunities and strategies, the US-Asia Expo Arizona points out the Valley of the Sun to Asian investors as the most attractive and effective location to do business in the United States.

The Expo also presents an opportunity to business owners in Arizona who are either looking to grow globally or would like to take advantage of business coming to the State. Arizona is competitive in aviation and aerospace technology, biotechnology, renewable energy, energy conservation, and environmental protection and offers targeted incentives and a business friendly operating environment.

Early this week, an U.S.-China Economic and Trade Cooperation Forum was held in Phoenix with over 200 government officials and business representatives from China and the U.S., revealing China as Arizona's third largest trading partner ($1.2 billion in 2008), with electrical machinery, aerospace products, optics and cotton headed out.

“The State’s ever-increasing role in the global economy sends a message to the world that Arizona means economic opportunity and high-tech innovation,” said Donald E. Cardon, Director of the Arizona Department of Commerce, at the Forum. “Significant opportunity exists in the international ties and investment taking shape.”

The US-Asia Expo Arizona looks to collaborate on important business issues and merge thousands of known strategic alliances with Asian entrepreneurs, business owners and investors from 45 countries.

The US-Asia Expo Arizona is presented by Arizona International Growth Group (AZIGG) and will feature business, investment and community leaders including Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon, Barry Broome (Greater Phoenix Economic Council, GPEC), Don Cardon (Arizona Department of Commerce) and Glenn Hamer (Arizona Chamber).

"In cooperation with GPEC and other entities working hard to build business in Arizona, we expect the US-Asia Expo Arizona to help business here grow globally and benefit from Asian companies investing in Arizona," said Doug Bruhnke, Founder/President of Arizona International Growth Group.


When: September 17th and 18th (Thursday and Friday)
Where: Camelback Inn, 5402 East Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale (Az)

For more information:
http://www.azigg.com/events_pages/200909-event.html

Contact: Growth Nation
Doug Bruhnke
CEO, Growth Nation and President, AZIGG

US Asia Expo Confirmed Speakers

We welcome the best and brightest business and community leaders to the US-Asia Expo Arizona on September 17-18 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Info at http://www.azigg.com/events_pages/200909-event.html

Confirmed speakers are:

Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane
Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon
Dana Garmany, CEO at Troon Golf
Barry Broome, President/CEO at GPEC
Scarlett Spring, EVP/COO at GPEC
Glenn Hamer, President/CEO at Arizona Chamber
Steve Zylstra, President/CEO at Arizona Technology Council
Don Cardon, President/CEO at Arizona Department of Commerce
Shashi Jasthi, CEO at Solugenix Corporation
Kiyoko Toyama, President at NKK Switches
Mahasen Samaravijaya, CEO at GVR Technologies
Ed Bull, President at Burch & Cracchiolo P.A.
Karen Dickinson, Partner at Quarles & Brady
Andrew Bogdanoff, Founder/Chairman at Remington Financial Group
Norman E. Clarke, Founder/Sr Managing Partner at Windstone Capital Partners
Dee Harris, Managing Director at Arizona Angels
Daniel T. Shum, Partner at Cornelius Korte Shum
Chet S. Ross, Chairman at SCORE Arizona
John Adam, Media Personality at The John Adam Show
Doug Bruhnke, CEO at Growth Nation and President at AZIGG
Susan Shultz, President, The Board Institute
Eric Nielsen, US Commercial Service
Haru Yamasaki, CEO at TechBA
Terree Wasley, ASU Technopolis and Invest Southwest
Steve Beaver, General Counsel at TPI Composites
Raymond C. Wiley, Aide Solar

Arizona doesn't border an ocean, and so we have to try a little harder to be global.

All the best, Doug (AZIGG and Growth Nation)

US Asia Expo Arizona Near-Final Agenda

The US-Asia Expo Arizona September 17-18 in Scottsdale, Arizona will offer expert information and high-level connections to help business owners grow their company – globally or locally. The Expo will feature the top global business and community leaders in Arizona along with an exhibition of global companies and organizations. Register at www.usasiaexpoarizona.com.

Thursday, September 17th Program

7:00 am - 9:00 am
9/17 Enterprise Network Executive Forum Breakfast
Arizona Business Goes Global
Location: Marriott Camelback Inn Golf Resort, Scottsdale

Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane
Dana Garmany – CEO of Troon Golf
Scarlett Spring – EVP and COO of GPEC
Raymond C. Wiley – Director of Aide Solar
Doug Bruhnke – CEO of Growth Nation
Sign-up at http://www.en.org/. $65


12:30pm – 4:45pm
US-Asia Expo Arizona Meeting. $55
Location: Camelback Inn – Cholla and Sunshine Rooms

12:30 pm - 1:00 pm
Welcome and Opening Ceremony
Emcees – John Adam and Doug Bruhnke
Opening – Mayor Phil Gordon, Barry Broome (GPEC)
Welcome Guests, Consulates, Dignitaries, Ambassadors, Speakers
Recap of Sept 6-8 China Mission: Don Cardon, AZ Commerce
Recap of Sept 10-12 LA Expo: Brent Barker, Strata Capital

1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
“Growing Global Commerce to Benefit Arizona”
Glenn Hamer, Arizona Chamber
Barry Broome, GPEC
Steve Zylstra, Arizona Technology Council
Daniel Shum, CKS Partners
Susan Shultz, Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations

2:00 pm – 2:50 pm
“Learning from Global CEO’s in Arizona”
Shashi Jasthi, Solugenix Corporation
Kiyoko Toyama, NKK Switches
Mahasen Samaravijaya, GVR Technologies
Eric Nielsen, US Commercial Service
Haru Yamasaki, Technology Business Accelerators (TechBA)

2:50 pm - 3:05 pm
Break

3:05 pm – 4:05 pm
“Investment Sources for Arizona’s Global Success”
Terree Wasley, ASU Technopolis and Invest Southwest
Dee Harris, Arizona Angels
Andy Bogdanoff, Remington Financial Group
Norman E. Clarke, Windstone Capital Partners
Chet S. Ross, SCORE Arizona and Greater Phoenix SCORE

4:05 pm – 4:45 pm
“Legal Implications for Going Global”
Karen Dickinson, Quarles & Brady
Steve Beaver, TPI Composites
Ed Bull, Burch & Cracchiolo, P.A.

4:45 pm
End Expo Meeting


5:30 pm - 8.00 pm
Global VIP Networking
Location: Camelback Inn – Cholla and Sunshine Rooms
Networking with Very Special Guests

8:00 pm
End VIP Networking


Friday, September 18th Program

7:30 am - 10:00 am
9/18 Global Recap Breakfast
Location: Camelback Inn – Cholla and Sunshine Rooms

o Recap the Expo
o Discuss Next Steps with Global Business in Arizona
o Formulate Questions for Governor Jan Brewer’s 9/22 Talk
o Plan for the Next US-Asia Expo February 24 - 25, 2010

10:00 am
End 9/18 Global Breakfast

All the best, Doug Bruhnke (AZIGG and Growth Nation)

US Asia Expo Arizona Overview

The US-Asia Expo Arizona September 17-18 in Scottsdale, Arizona will put business owners in Arizona in touch with the resources, leaders and organizations they need to grow their business.

Attendees will gain from new ideas and connections to grow globally and grow locally (from global business and companies coming to Arizona).

INFO HERE: http://www.azigg.com/events_pages/200909-event.html

This special event will be held on Thursday and Friday September 17-18, 2009 at the Camelback Inn in Scottsdale. The US-Asia Expo Arizona is presented by Arizona Asia Commission and Arizona International Growth Group (AZIGG) and will feature business, investment and community leaders including Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon, Barry Broome (Greater Phoenix Economic Council, GPEC), Don Cardon (Arizona Department of Commerce) and Glenn Hamer (Arizona Chamber).

Check out the confirmed speakers on the website – it may be the most distinguished group of local leaders ever assembled to speak on global business in Arizona.

Primary Expo Events
Thursday, 9/17/09 7:00 – 9:00am 9/17 Enterprise Network Breakfast $65
Thursday, 9/17/09 12:30 – 5:00pm US-Asia Expo Arizona Main Program $55
Thursday, 9/17/09 5:30 – 8:00pm Global VIP Networking $55
Friday, 9/18/09 7:30 – 10:00am 9/18 Global Recap Breakfast $40

More info at www.azigg.com.

Who should attend the US-Asia Expo Arizona:

1. Arizona business owners and leaders interested to learn how to grow globally or to benefit from global business coming to Arizona.
2. Business owners of Asia-based companies attending the Los Angeles US-Asia Business Forum Sept 10-12.
3. Sponsoring companies in Arizona who seek to gain from global commerce between Arizona and Asia (and other countries).
4. Expert speakers to address the audience of business and community leaders for discussions that increase commerce for Arizona companies.

All the best, Doug Bruhnke

US Asia Expo Arizona Sept 17-18

The US-Asia Investment and Business Expo Arizona will be held on Thursday and Friday September 17-18, 2009 at the Camelback Inn in Scottsdale, Arizona.

The US-Asia Expo Arizona is presented by Arizona International Growth Group (AZIGG) and will feature Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon and leaders from Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC), Arizona Department of Commerce, Arizona Chamber and global business and investment experts from across Arizona.

Primary Expo Events
Thursday, 9/17/09 7:00 – 9:00am Enterprise Network Executive Forum breakfast.
Thursday, 9/17/09 12:30 – 5:00pm US-Asia Expo Arizona main program.
Thursday, 9/17/09 5:30 – 8:00pm Global VIP Networking.
Friday, 9/18/09 7:30 – 10:00am Global Recap Breakfast

REGISTER NOW at http://www.azigg.com/events_pages/200909-event.html

Who should attend the US-Asia Expo Arizona:

1. Business owners of Asia-based companies who are attending the Los Angeles US-Asia Business Forum Sept 9-13.
2. Arizona business owners who are interested to learn about and engage in global business.
3. Arizona community leaders who are looking to support global growth and partnerships.
4. Sponsoring companies in Arizona who seek to gain from commerce between Arizona, Asia and the world.
5. Expert speakers to address the audience of business and community leaders for discussions that increase commerce.

All the best, Doug

Doug Bruhnke, AZIGG (Arizona International Growth Group)

Update on US-Asia Expo Arizona Sept 17-18

The US-Asia Expo Arizona will be held Thursday and Friday Sept 17-18. It is presented by Arizona International Growth Group (AZIGG) and will feature Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon, Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane, GPEC, Arizona Chamber, Thunderbird and dozens of Arizona organizations and business VIP’s.
Visit www.azigg.com for more information.


US-Asia Expo Arizona Event Summary

Thursday, 9/17/09 7:00 – 9:00am: Enterprise Network Executive Forum breakfast.
Thursday, 9/17/09 12:30 – 5:00pm: US-Asia Expo Arizona main program.
Thursday, 9/17/09 5:30 – 8:00pm: Global VIP Networking.
Friday, 9/18/09 7:30 – 10:00am: Global Recap Breakfast

US-Asia Expo Arizona Event Details

The US-Asia Expo Arizona will be held at the Camelback Inn on September 17th and 18th with an exhibition of global companies and presentations by local investment and business leaders on topics important to overseas visitors and local business owners.

Events include the Executive Forum breakfast from 7 – 9am, the US-Asia Expo from 12:30 to 5pm, the Global VIP Networking from 5:30 to 8pm, and the Global Recap Breakfast from 7:30 – 10:00am on Friday the 18th.

Who should attend the US-Asia Expo Arizona:

1. Business owners of Asia-based companies who are attending the Los Angeles US-Asia Business Forum Sept 9-13.


2. Arizona business owners who are interested to learn about and engage in global business.


3. Arizona community leaders who are looking to support global growth and partnerships.


4. Sponsoring companies in Arizona who seek to gain from commerce between Arizona, Asia and the world.
   
5. Expert speakers to address the audience of business and community leaders for discussions that increase commerce.

US-Asia Expo Arizona Agenda

Thursday, Sept 17th, 7:30 – 9:00
Enterprise Network Executive Forum

Marriott Camelback Inn Golf Resort, Scottsdale

Introduction by Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane
Dana Garmany – CEO of Troon Golf
Scarlett Spring – EVP and COO of GPECAdditional Special Guest CEO’s
Moderator Doug Bruhnke, CEO of Growth Nation

“Arizona Grows Globally and Welcomes International Companies”
$55 members of EN. Sign-up at http://www.en.org/

Thursday, Sept 17th, 12:30 – 5:00
US-Asia Expo Arizona

Camelback Inn – Cholla and Sunshine Rooms

$55 for the Expo only
$55 for the VIP Networking only
$90 for the Expo + VIP Networking together
$40 for the Global Recap Breakfast only
$125 for the Expo + VIP Networking + Global Recap Breakfast on 18th.

Sign-up at http://www.azigg.com/events_pages/200909-event.html

12:30 – 1:00
Welcome and Opening Ceremony

Emcees – John Adams and Doug Bruhnke

Opening – Mayor Phil Gordon, Barry Broome, Others

Welcome Asia Guests, Consulates, Dignitaries
Recap of Sept 6-8 China Mission & Sept 9-13 LA Expo

Series of Global Panels Throughout the Afternoon

1:00 – 2:00
“Thinking Strategically About AZ’s Global Future”

2:00 – 3:00
“What We Can Learn from Companies Already Here”

3:00 – 3:20
Break

3:20 – 4:00
“Legal Implications for Going Global”

4:00 – 5:00
“Making Your Global Investment in Arizona"

5:00 – 5:30
Close the Expo and Transition to VIP Networking



5:30 – 8:00
Global VIP Networking

Camelback Inn – Cholla and Sunshine Rooms
Special Guests and Announcements

Friday, Sept 18th, 7:30 – 10:00
Global Recap Breakfast

Camelback Inn – room to be announced

Expo planning team, members of AZIGG and other local global leaders
Formulate questions for Governor Jan Brewer’s talk on 9/22
Planning for next US-Asia Expo Arizona in February, 2010

Sign-up at http://www.azigg.com/events_pages/200909-event.html

Confirmed Speakers for September 17-18
Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane
Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon
Dana Garmany, CEO at Troon Golf
Barry Broome, President/CEO at GPEC
Scarlett Spring, EVP/COO at GPEC
Glenn Hamer, President/CEO at Arizona Chamber
Steve Zylstra, President/CEO at Arizona Technology Council
Shashi Jasthi, CEO at Solugenix Corporation
Kiyoko Toyama, President at NKK Switches
Mahasen Samaravijaya, CEO at GVR Technologies
Ed Bull, President at Burch & Cracchiolo P.A.
Karen Dickinson, Partner at Quarles & Brady
Andrew Bogdanoff, Founder/Chairman at Remington Financial Group
Norman E. Clarke, Founder/Sr Managing Partner at Windstone Capital Partners
Dee Harris, Managing Director at Arizona Angels
Daniel T. Shum, Partner at Cornelius Korte Shum
Chet S. Ross, Chairman at SCORE Arizona
John Adam, Media Personality at The John Adam Show
Doug Bruhnke, CEO at Growth Nation and President at AZIGG

All the best, Doug

AZIGG Continues to Grow - New Logo

We're pleased to announce the new logo for the Arizona International Growth Group (AZIGG). Many thanks to our friends at Affordable Image for their designing prowess and continued support of the Arizona business community. If you run a business near Phoenix, Arizona, Mike Shoun and Lisa Minzey at Affordable Image should be on your speed dial.

Thank you to the global business community's support of AZIGG. Let's keep raising the water level and the bar for global business in Arizona.

All the best, Doug

Doug Bruhnke

President, AZIGG

US Asia Investment and Business Expo Sept 17-18

“Arizona International Week” in Phoenix is brought to you by AZIGG and dozens of local business and educational organizations. It will run September 17th through September 22nd.

The US-Asia Investment and Business Expo coming to Los Angeles has been extended to Phoenix on Thursday and Friday Sept 17-18. It will be presented by Arizona Asia Commission and AZIGG at the Phoenix Convention Center, hosted by Mayor Phil Gordon and GPEC.

The week will kick off with a breakfast at Enterprise Network (EN) on September 17th (www.en.org). The event will spotlight international economic development and feature local international business success stories.

Governor Jan Brewer will present the 6th annual "PCFR International State of the State" hosted by PCFR and supported by AZIGG for lunch on the 22nd at the Arizona Biltmore.

Also on September 22nd, Arizona's own Lon Safko, world-famous author of the best-selling 'Social Media Bible' will cap the week's events with a "The Social Media Conference - Where the Best of Education Meets the Best of Business" at East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) in Mesa. This social media event will also feature Tom Horne, State Superintendent of Public Instruction for Arizona and many special guests.

All the best, Doug

Doug Bruhnke - President/Founder AZIGG; CEO/Founder Growth Nation

Sustainability in Arizona Discussed at AZIGG

Thank you to Sue and Tony Makridis for hosting AZIGG August 3rd at Greekfest - the best Greek restaurant in Phoenix by far. Ask my wife (her maiden name is Stamos, related to John Stamos).

The event was sold out and we completely filled the restaurant. Our speakers were magnificent. Thank you to Bob Shatz and his team from ITDC (Innovative Technology Development Center, http://www.inno-tech.org/) for their wonderful contributions and their ongoing efforts to grow the Sustainability sector in Arizona.

Also special thanks to Dee Harris (Arizona Angels) and Chet S. Ross (Greater Phoenix SCORE and SCORE Arizona) for contributing their views of the investment in Arizona around Sustainability, Green Tech and technology.

Thanks also to all our attendees. And sorry for all those who signed-up in the last 2 weeks to find out that we were full. Next month we'll be back in larger venues to be able to accommodate all of you.

Our next event is the US-Asia Investment and Business Expo Sept 17-18. It will start on the 17th morning with a breakfast at Enterprise Network. It's all part of Arizona International Week.

Watch for more pictures and event information at www.azigg.com.

All the best, Doug

Doug Bruhnke, President/Founder of AZIGG

Arizona International Week in Metro Phoenix September 17-22

Arizona International Week is coming to Phoenix and will run from September 17th through September 22nd. There are several key events planned that are designed to help companies in Arizona and from Asia grow globally.

The week will kick-off on Thursday, September 17th at 7:30am with a breakfast in Scottsdale at Enterprise Network www.en.org that celebrates international economic development and will feature key economic development and business resources.

Then on Sept 17-18 the US Asia Investment and Business Expo (US Asia Expo Arizona) will be in Phoenix after a week-long run in Los Angeles. For our Asia visitors, in between events we have information for you to enjoy the best Arizona has to offer - including the Grand Canyon, golf and our world-class resorts.

The US Asia Expo Arizona is presented by AZIGG at Camelback Inn and will feature dozens of local organizations, dozens of business and political dignitaries and hundreds of companies from Arizona and Asia. Here's a preview: http://www.fosaac.tv/us-asia-expo-2009.htm

Arizona International Week will be capstoned by two significant international, business and education events on Tuesday, September 22nd.

At lunch on September 22nd Governor Jan Brewer will present the 6th annual "International State of the State" hosted by PCFR and supported by AZIGG on the 22nd. Governor Brewer's presentation will be a the Biltmore Resort.

Also on September 22nd and running all day, Arizona's own Lon Safko, world-famous author of the best-selling 'Social Media Bible' will present "The Social Media Conference - Where the Best of Education Meets the Best of Business" at East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) in Mesa.

The global social media event will feature a live feed from the Governor's lunch presentation. Other business and education leaders will be attending including Tom Horne, Superintendent of Public Education in Arizona.

Watch these websites for more information, along with our partners' websites.

www.azigg.com

http://www.azigg.com/events_pages/200909-event.html

All the best, Doug

Arizona International Growth Group (AZIGG)

Growth Nation

ps...the AZIGG event 8/3 at Greekfest is sold out. You may visit www.azigg.com to add your name to the waiting list. We'll have a full announcement of Arizona International Week then.

AZIGG August 3rd: Nurturing Sustainability in Arizona

Next AZIGG Event

Monday, August 3rd 11:30am – 1:00pm
"Nurturing Sustainability in Arizona”
Bob Shatz, Ron Richman & Richard McKinney – ITDC (Tucson)
Dee Harris – Arizona Angels

$27 Includes Lunch (Greek Specialties). RSVP Here: www.azigg.com

After a successful investment career in New York and Tokyo, Bob Shatz wanted to live in Tucson and make a difference. So he went about researching what industries to work in and to grow. His conclusion: Sustainability. Today his work with Ron Richman, Richard McKinney and the team at ITDC (www.inno-tech.org) is an Arizona success story that few below Ina Road know about. Now you will.

Bob, Ron and Richard will be joined by the one and only Dee Harris, long-team leader of the of Arizona Angels Investor Network. Dee is the definitive knowledge source for tech investing in Arizona.

Also joining the discussion will be Chet Ross - Director, SCORE Arizona District. Chet will update us on recent funding developments for small businesses including SBA and ARC loans.

Bob Shatz - Innovative Technologies Development Center
Bob is CFO at ITDC. He has been involved in alternative finance research and sales for the past 25 years. Fluent in Japanese, he became the first foreign analyst to be trained in Tokyo at Nomura Research Institute and sent to sell Japanese debt and equity research to institutional investors in the US.

After setting sales records and nurturing a $5 billion joint venture, he was promoted to top management of Nomura and played an instrumental role in facilitating the first mortage-backed securities mutual fund between Japanese investors and Trust Company of the West ($750 million). Bob retired to Tucson to raise his family and look for interesting investment opportunities in sustainable ventures.

Dee Harris - Arizona Angels Investor Network
Dee has held a senior leadership position at Arizona Angels (www.arizonaangels.com) since 2002. He has 25 years of legal and regulatory experience and 7 years of investment banking experience. Dee was Chairman, Arizona Bio Industry Association and served on the Arizona Bioscience Road Map Committee. Among his many prestigious prior roles, Dee was formerly the Director of Securities for the Arizona Corporation Commission in addition to being President of the North American Securities Administrators Association and Director of Enforcement of the Michigan Corporation and Securities Bureau. Dee has been serving on the Executive Commitee for Invest Southwest www.investsouthwest.org.

Ron Richman - ITDC and University of Arizona
Ron is CEO at ITDC and Co-Director of Arid Lands Bioenergy Institute at the University of Arizona. He has over 30 years of strategy, business development, marketing and technology transfer experience at IBM. Ron has many accomplishments in his leadership roles for the Service Provider, e-Business, e-Intrastructure and Industrial Sectors.

Richard McKinney - ITDC
Richard is COO of ITDC and his leadership experience includes supply chain management, manufacturing and general management. His past company experience includes Teledyne Divisions of Water Pik, Metal Forming, Aero-Cal, CB, Casting Services and Rodney Metals. Richard was President/CEO of IMI/Timet Castings.

All the best, Doug

Arizona International Growth Group (AZIGG)

Arizona Dept of Commerce Faces Catastrophic Cuts

AZIGG is an important partner of the Arizona Department of Commerce. We wanted to provide you with an important budget update. This content is supplied by the Arizona Dept of Commerce.

During this unprecedented time of financial hardship for the state, when Arizona is facing a budget deficit of roughly $4 billion, the budget released by Governor Brewer on June 1st reflects a commitment to the health and welfare of Arizona’s business community, while continuing to be sensitive to the financial realities of our state.

The Arizona State Legislature recently passed a budget that slates Commerce for a $2 million general fund reduction as well as additional line item reductions. This cut would be crippling to Commerce and would mean an immediate ceasing of many programs vital to the business of Arizona and our ability to recover from this economic downtown.

In fact, the Legislature's reductions result in over a 50% reduction in staff and resources, including those from business attraction, community development, innovation and technology, and tax credit programs. This essential “shut-down” of services would mean that Arizona is the ONLY state in the country without a state level business attraction team dedicated to recruiting companies and creating jobs.

In stark contrast, although the Governor’s budget requires Commerce to forego $2 million, the managerial constraints of funds are removed and the $2 million comes from various funding streams, not just the general fund. This flexibility allows Commerce to continue to staff and fund its important programs. Also included in the Governor’s budget is a requirement that Commerce continue to look for cost-savings by renegotiating existing contracts, continue vacancy savings and begin to reduce its reliance on the General Fund.

The Governor’s budget also streamlines and modernizes the agency. Specifically, under the direction of the new Director, Don Cardon, Commerce will look at its internal processes and programs to ensure that they are in line with the mission of Commerce – to spur and grow economic development for all of Arizona. The Executive budget also lays out a plan for long term fiscal planning and stability.

In total, the Executive budget proposes over $1 billion in spending cuts, maximum utilization of federal stimulus funds, including those for the State Energy Office housed in Commerce, and a temporary one percent sales tax increase. This sales tax increase is expected to garner approximately $1 billion in additional revenue, that when paired with other fiscal tactics, not budgetary gimmicks, will help Arizona recover.

As a key stakeholder, we ask for your support of the Governor’s budget proposal as this process moves forward. The timing of your support is crucial, as there are only a few days left before the beginning of the fiscal year.

For additional information on the impact of the Governor’s budget to the State of Arizona, please visit: http://www.governor.state.az.us/ and click on the “Building a Better Arizona” link.

Also, if you are interested in contacting your legislator, please visit the Arizona Legislature’s website at : http://www.azleg.gov/MemberRoster.asp for contact information. If you are unsure of your elected officials, you can easily find your legislators by visiting the Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission website at: http://azredistricting.org/mapping/default2.asp?tname=Interim.2009.Legislative.Map&service=ircmaps&Layer4=on&Layer1=on&action=zoomin&ActiveLayer=16
As always, thank you for your continued support of the Arizona Department of Commerce. We look forward to working with you during these rough times and for the future ahead.

Kerri Morey
Director of Public Policy
Arizona Department of Commerce
602-771-1175


Karla Castro Teixeira
Arizona Department of Commerce
International Business Development Manager
International Trade and Investment Division
1700 W. Washington Street, Suite 220
Phoenix, Arizona 85007

AZIGG June 26th Event at D'Backs

Homerun Networking Event - AZIGG and the D'Backs - June 26th

Annual networking event with Cullen Maxey, SVP, Corporate Partnerships and Marketing, Arizona Diamondbacks. Watch the D'Backs play the Anaheim Angels with 200 new friends. Investment $55.

Thanks to Michael Swiczsz of the Phoenix CEO-CFO Group. In cooperations with CEO-CFO Group, ACG-Arizona and AZIGG.

Annual Networking with the Diamondbacks

All the best, Doug

Doug Bruhnke - Growth Nation and AZIGG

Grow Globally Using the Internet - AZIGG June 1st at ASU SkySong

AZIGG in June Presents:

Panel Discussion
"Grow Globally Using the Internet'

Omar Sayed - Founder and CEO of Succeed Corporation

Lon Safko - Entrepreneur & Author, The Social Media Bible

Vijay Kapoor - Founder and CEO of TCC247
Robert Wilkinson - Founder and CEO of Abacus 24/7

Monday, June 1st, 7:30am - 9:00am
Location: ASU SkySong, 1475 N Scottsdale Road, 1st Floor (SE Corner)
(Southeast corner of Scottsdale and McDowell)

Moderator: Doug Bruhnke - CEO of Growth Nation & President of AZIGG
Investment $15 includes coffee and juice

Omar Sayed (Succeed Corporation), Lon Safko (The Social Media Bible), Vijay Kapoor (TCC247) and Robert Wilkinson (Abacus 24/7) are four of the top experts in the US on web marketing for your business. They'll be at ASU - SkySong to discuss growing business online, and answering your questions. For early sign-up: www.azigg.com

All the best, Doug

Doug Bruhnke

AZIGG and Growth Nation

Scottsdale, AZ USA

Green Events with Global Implications in Arizona

Arizona Competes Globally, in Green Workshops
Scottsdale-based Green Street Development is turning the desert green. They're offering 2-hour Green Remodel Workshops at Arizona's first LEED-certified single-family remodel in Phoenix. For more info and to sign-up: http://www.greenstreetdev.com/green-remodel-workshop/. The Workshops are offered to professionals May 12, May 14 and June 9, and to homeowners June 11.

Arizona Competes Globally, in Solar Decathlon
The University of Arizona's Solar Decathlon Team was elected by the US Department of Energy to compete in the 2009 Solar Decathlon. The competition is a showcase for sustainable architecture, with the goal of increasing awareness in the general public of the immense opportunities for solar powered innovation, applicable today for a reduced, if not carbon-neutral, way of living. Congrats U of A, and more info here: http://www.uasolardecathlon.com/

All the best, Doug

Doug Bruhnke
AZIGG and Growth Nation
Scottsdale, AZ USA

AZIGG Draws Overflow Crowd for Solar

At AZIGG on Monday, our expert panel sent a uniform message: call your legislators and city officials to get them to support Arizona business initiatives in solar, NOW. See these links for more info. Thanks Chris.

http://www.gpec.org/News_-_Events-Renewable-energy-news-updates.aspx

http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/1179/campaign.jsp?campaign_KEY=26947

Special thanks to John Balfour (PerfectPower), Patrick O'Grady (Phoenix Business Journal) and Chris Camacho (GPEC) for great information.

The event was sold out and standing room only. Thanks to Glenn Hamer (Arizona Chamber), Chet Ross (SCORE) and Steve Zylstra (AZ Tech Council) for their contributions.

Thanks to Lon Safko for the pictures and sharing the launch of The Social Media Bible at AZIGG. Watch for Lon at our next AZIGG on June 1st that discusses growing your business globally on the internet.

Thanks to Bart Butler, Julie Vasquez and Maria Gryskiewicz for helping with the event. Watch for more pics from our group photographer Laird Brown (www.smallbusinessphoto.com).

All the best, Doug

AZIGG and Growth Nation
Scottsdale, Arizona

Arizona's Solar Energy Future at AZIGG May 4th

Arizona International Growth Group (AZIGG)

Features a Panel Discussion...

"Global Solar in Arizona: The Future's So Bright, If..."

• John Balfour - President of PerfectPower
• Patrick O'Grady - Reporter for Phoenix Business Journal
• Chris Camacho - VP of Business Development for GPEC
  
  

Monday, May 4th, 7:30am - 9:00am

Location: ASU SkySong, 1475 N Scottsdale Road, 1st Floor (SE Corner)
(Southeast corner of Scottsdale and McDowell)
Moderator: Doug Bruhnke - CEO of Growth Nation & President of AZIGG
Investment $10 includes coffee and juice

John Balfour (Perfect Power), Patrick O'Grady (Phoenix Business Journal) and Chris Camacho (Greater Phoenix Economic Council) each understand the dynamics of the solar industry in Arizona. Together they can speak to the realities, challenges, opportunities, possibilities and probabilities of solar. We're in a critical phase on the future of green in Arizona, and this month we'll be discussing what it takes to win, and if we can.

Please RSVP: www.azigg.com

John Balfour - BS, MEP, Ph.D. and LEED Accredited Professional

John is the president of PerfectPower Inc. which he founded in 1998. PerfectPower was developed out of "The Energy Doctor" an active solar and energy consulting firm which he founded in 1977 and trademarked since 1981. PerfectPower is the most award-winning Solar Company in North America and is the only solar company in the US to win a Better Business Bureau "Business Ethics Award". John has two degrees from ASU including a BS in Science in Political Science (1977) and a Masters of Architecture in the Masters of Environmental Planning (MEP) Program (1982), which was ASU's solar program in the 1970's and 1980's. In 1992, he received a Ph.D. in Management funded by the Daimler Benz Corporation. John has been an active proponent of the application of high performance PV systems (systems that perform well in desert regions like Arizona) and aesthetically pleasing PV design and installations. As a result, PerfectPower is the only US solar company that designs for performance in high temperature locations.

Chris Camacho - Vice President of Business Development

Chris is Vice President of Business Development for the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC), focusing on GPEC's business attraction efforts in emerging technology and international economic development. He is former president and CEO of the Greater Yuma Economic Development Corporation (GYEDC). During his three and a half year tenure there, GYEDC helped with the location of 35 companies to Greater Yuma representing the creation of over 3,500 new manufacturing and service jobs and $450 million in new capital investment.

Chris has also served as a financial incentives consultant for Madison County, Illinois, and a research associate for the TheAlliance, an economic development partnership in Metro St. Louis. He attended Southern Illinois University where he earned a master's degree in Public Administration and Public Policy and studied psychology and business administration as an undergraduate.

Patrick O'Grady - Technology Reporter

Patrick covers technology, manufacturing and sustainability for the Phoenix Business Journal. He has been in the Valley for 13 years and has covered a range of issues throughout the years including growth and economic development. His latest focus has been on, among other things, the burgeoning solar industry in the Valley and Arizona and its attempts to ramp up to provide another area of growth for the state.

All the best, Doug

Doug Bruhnke

AZIGG

Growth Nation

Scottsdale, AZ

AZIGG Global Funding Panel Delivered to Full House at ASU SkySong

AZIGG Panel on Global Financing - April 2009 at ASU SkySong

Photography by Laird Brown (www.smallbusinessphoto.com)

Four experts who understand every angle of finding financing for global business delivered information to a full house at SkySong.

Norman E. Clarke of Windstone Capital covered options through private capital groups for an existing business.

Havana-born and now Phoenix's own Carlos Emmermann spoke on financing your business through international sales and provided information on the Export Import Bank.

Chet Ross provided financing information for entrepreneurs and small businesses. Chet leads SCORE in Arizona and is in his own right an extraordinary business resource for entrepreneurs and small businesses as they look to grow globally.

Tucson-based Sy Rotter has over 30 years experience in Washington and globally with for-profit and non-profit international financing. Sy provided additional financing information from this panel containing over 100 years of global funding experience.

All the best, Doug

Doug Bruhnke
President, AZIGG
Scottsdale, AZ USA

Funding Your Global Growth at AZIGG April 6th

NEXT EVENT for AZIGG:

Monday, April 6th morning 7:30am – 9:00am

”Funding Your Global Growth”

Expert Panel:
Norm E. Clark - Founder & Sr. Managing Partner, Windstone Capital
Carlos Emmermann - Banking Consultant & Advisor to Sonoran Bank
Chet S. Ross - Director SCORE Arizona District & Chair Greater Phoenix SCORE
Sy Rotter - Founder & President of Washington Liason Office LLC

Location: ASU SkySong, 1475 N Scottsdale Road

(SE Corner Scottsdale and McDowell in Scottsdale)

$10 at the door, includes coffee, water and juice
RSVP: www.azigg.com

These four experts understand every angle on finding financing for your business. The idea for this funding panel was inspired by Havana-born and now Phoenix’s own Carlos Emmermann, who will speak on financing your business through international sales. Norm Clark of Windstone Capital will cover mergers and acquisitions and many more financing options if you have an existing business. Chet Ross leads SCORE in Arizona and is in his own right an extraordinary business resource for entrepreneurs and small businesses as they look to grow globally. Finally Tucson-based Sy Rotter has on his own over 30 years experience in Washington and globally with for-profit and non-profit international financing.

Norm E. Clarke

Norm has 25 years experience in global telecommunications, electronics, software and venture capital financing. He moved to Phoenix with Three-Five Systems (TFS) where he led sales and marketing, assisted on the Company's public offering and established the Company's Motorola account. TFS went from $6 million to $120 million in sales and was the fastest growing company on Wall Street for two consecutive years. He later went on as a senior executive in several different venture capital backed companies, including President of Capdata Systems Inc. Norm has been an active member of Arizona's venture capital community for the past 18 years including 4 years as a partner with the venture capital firm Blackwater Capital Group. He is credited with numerous private financings and several public offerings.

Carlos Emmermann
Carlos leads Emmermann and Associates LLC, which is an Arizona-based international trade and finance consulting firm that helps small and mid-size companies succeed in international business. Areas of expertise include accessing U.S. export credit agency programs to obtain pre- and post-export working capital financing to help businesses grow international sales, using trade finance tools to mitigate foreign payment risks, performing due diligence on foreign clients, assessing country economic and political conditions that may impact the business environment, and helping companies develop and implement international business strategies.

Chet S. Ross
Chet Ross leads SCORE in Arizona. He is a former corporate CEO and retired US Navy Commander. He has 37 years of senior executive global business experience in manufacturing, marketing and operations. He is a director of Micro Industries, LLC and serves on the advisory board of New Micro Holdings, LLC, Service West Delivery Services, Elixir Interactive and Create-A-Flag, LLC. He retired from the Navy with the rank of Commander, following 18 years of air reserve duty and 3½ years active duty. Because SCORE is partially funded by the SBA, Chet is connected to current funding opportunities from the US Stimulus Package.

Sy Rotter
Sy has more than thirty years of experience in international and domestic economic and social development programs, as staff, consultant and administrator. His international financial experience has included the U.S. Government’s Foreign Aid program, non-government organizations, development-focused foundations and Owner/President of the Washington Liaison Office, LLC based in Tucson.

All the best, Doug

Arizona International Growth Group

Chairman Jeff Morhet Delivers at AZIGG

Photography by Laird Brown (www.smallbusinessphotos.com)

Jeff Morhet, Chairman and CEO of Scottsdale-based InNexus Biotechnology (www.ixsbio.com) provided an outstanding presentation to a full house at Jobing.com on March 3rd on how to grow a biotech firm globally.

If you missed it, in an answer to the question about how limiting is it that Arizona doesn't have a built-out VC community, Jeff answered, "Money finds good ideas". He used InNexus as an example of an Arizona-based company that has been funded from funding sources outside Arizona.

Thank you, Jeff!

All the best, Doug Bruhnke

AZIGG - Arizona International Growth Group