AZ CAP seeks to address disparities in equity capital access through a two-pronged approach – by bridging the social capital gap that many entrepreneurs from under resourced backgrounds face and by expanding decision making power beyond current and traditional equity investment institutions.

AZ CAP will grow a local funder base in Arizona, and by activating a new generation of investors through peer-led investor groups (which include non-traditional investors and interest in non-traditional founders), they will level the field for those that traditional capital overlooks. AZ CAP will directly engage at least 750 individuals via trainings and one-on-one technical assistance, including entrepreneurs, investors, and workshop participants. Another 750 will be reached via partner networks, networking events and other outreach efforts.

In 2025, the Nasdaq Foundation and its partners advanced strategic, scalable solutions to empower economic opportunity and strengthen a more inclusive and resilient financial system. Read the report here: https://www.nasdaq.com/nasdaq-purpose