History
Science Foundation Arizona (SFAz) was created in 2006 through the collaboration of three statewide CEO business organizations: Flagstaff 40, Greater Phoenix Leadership and the Southern Arizona Leadership Council to help diversify the Arizona economy with strategic research and development investments. The operating entity of SFAz was put in place in January 2007 with the hiring of the appropriate technical staff.
| Science Foundation Arizona is a 501(C)(3) non-profit that represents a public-private partnership unique for Arizona. The CEO groups are funding operating costs through 2012, enabling public and philanthropic funds to be used exclusively for investing in Arizona's future. |
Funding History
- In June 2006, the Arizona Governor and State Legislature appropriated $35 million to Science Foundation Arizona through the Arizona 21st Century Competitive Initiative Fund. The goal is to develop the necessary resources for Arizona to become globally competitive in science and engineering.
- In June 2007, the State Legislature approved a four-year commitment to Science Foundation Arizona for an additional $100 million to be matched by the private sector, making the total investment for innovation and growth $235 million through 2012.
- SFAz continues to play a pivotal role in delivering and managing an investment strategy in purpose-driven innovation and research to spur greater businesses opportunities, further investments, and new technology sector growth.
- In August 2008, SFAz began operating a new entity under SFAz focusing on K-12 science and math education. Created in collaboration with several state education partners, this new entity will help build education excellence in the focus areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). The goal is to aid educators in gaining higher results in student achievement thereby ensuring Arizona’s ability to educate, attract, and foster a globally competitive, 21st century knowledge-based work force.
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