Arizona’s approach to innovation and economic growth draws interest from Missouri policymakers

PHOENIX—The Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Goldwater Institute today hosted a delegation of Missouri policymakers for a discussion focused on economic competitiveness, innovation, and pro-growth policy. The meeting comes on the heels of the Chamber’s recent launch of the AZ AI Leadership Initiative, which is focused on strengthening Arizona’s leadership in emerging technologies and the broader digital economy.

The discussion brought together Arizona legislative leaders, policy experts, and partners from the Arizona Commerce Authority to share insights on how Arizona has built a competitive environment for emerging industries and long-term economic growth. 

The conversation highlighted the policy decisions and public-private partnerships that have helped position Arizona as a leader in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, aerospace, autonomous systems, and emerging technologies. 

“Arizona’s growth didn’t happen by accident,” said Courtney Coolidge, executive vice president of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry. “It reflects deliberate policy choices that prioritize certainty, competitiveness, and a regulatory environment where businesses can invest, innovate, and scale. We were glad to share what’s working with leaders from Missouri.” 

Participants included Arizona House Speaker Steve Montenegro, Majority Leader Michael Carbone, Rep. Jeff Weninger, Rep. Justin Wilmeth, Sen. T.J. Shope, and Sen. Frank Carroll, who discussed how Arizona has aligned policy, infrastructure, and economic development to support growth across industries. 

“Arizona has made a conscious decision to lead on innovation rather than wait for other states to set the pace,” said Speaker Montenegro. “That kind of alignment and forward-looking policy environment allows industries to grow and scale here.” 

“Arizona’s success in attracting major investment is tied directly to our focus on advanced manufacturing, infrastructure, and supply chain strength,” said Majority Leader Carbone. “Those fundamentals are critical to sustaining long-term economic momentum.” 

“Companies are looking for certainty,” said Rep. Weninger. “Arizona’s predictable regulatory environment and competitive tax structure give businesses the confidence to invest and expand.” 

Arizona policymakers also emphasized the importance of ensuring growth reaches all parts of the state. 

“We’ve been intentional about making sure economic development isn’t concentrated in one region,” said Sen. Shope. “Infrastructure, water, and land use policies all play a role in supporting growth across Arizona, including in rural communities.” 

As new industries continue to emerge, lawmakers highlighted the importance of maintaining flexibility in how policy is developed. 

“Arizona continues to attract new and emerging industries by staying focused on innovation and targeted economic development,” said Sen. Carroll. “That approach is helping position the state for the next phase of economic expansion.” 

“We’ve taken a thoughtful approach to emerging technologies by avoiding premature regulation,” said Rep. Wilmeth. “That flexibility allows innovation to develop while still ensuring appropriate oversight.” 

The discussion also explored how elements of Arizona’s policy framework can be adapted in other states and how collaboration across state lines can help strengthen the broader U.S. economy. 

“As emerging technologies continue to reshape industries, policy certainty and deregulation matter more than ever,” said Victor Riches, president and CEO of the Goldwater Institute. “Arizona needs to ensure an environment where innovation can move forward.” 

Participating from the Missouri delegation were state Sen. Travis Fitzwater, Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern, Sen. Karla May, Sen. Barbara Anne Washington, Sen. Jamie Burger, policy advisor for Governor Kehoe, Johnathan Shifflett, and representatives from the Missouri Chamber of Commerce, Karen Buschmann and Jared Hankinson.  

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