Our Story

What began as a simple local business directory in 2020 to support small businesses during the pandemic has evolved into the go-to resource for local businesses in Surprise, Arizona.

In September 2024, two local business owners, Cheryl Packham and Kristi May, met over coffee to catch up. Their conversation quickly turned into an eye-opening realization—when local businesses connect and support one another, they grow stronger together.

They recognized that many businesses in Surprise faced similar challenges but lacked a centralized support system to share knowledge, resources, and opportunities. To turn this vision into reality, they brought in Bailey Steindel, who helped refine and grow this initiative.

Since then, the Surprise Business Collective has grown to 50+ engaged members, all committed to strengthening the local business ecosystem and ensuring that Surprise remains a place where small businesses thrive.

Why We Exist

The Surprise Business Collective is a grassroots initiative designed to provide real support, practical resources, and valuable connections to local businesses.

We created this initiative because:
✅ Local businesses are stronger together. Sharing knowledge and resources helps businesses make smarter decisions and grow more effectively.
✅ Business success shouldn’t happen in isolation. Many entrepreneurs face challenges alone when the solutions might already exist within our community.
✅ A thriving business community benefits everyone. Strong local businesses create jobs, attract new opportunities, and make Surprise a better place to live and work.

What We Do

Our mission is simple: connect, support, and strengthen the local business community in Surprise. We accomplish this through:

🔹 A Supportive Business Community – Membership includes access to a private Facebook group where business owners share insights, ask questions, and offer guidance to one another.

🔹 Visibility & Promotion – Every member receives a directory listing on MySurpriseAZ.org, helping them reach local customers.

🔹 Strategic Local Marketing – Members can post in the My Surprise AZ Local Guide Facebook Group, a community-focused platform that helps businesses stay top-of-mind.

🔹 Business Support & Resources – We actively connect business owners with relevant information, trusted referrals, and community resources that help them navigate challenges and grow sustainably.

Our Mission

To empower, connect, and elevate the local business community in Surprise by fostering collaboration, shared resources, and visibility for businesses of all sizes.

Join Us!
The Surprise Business Collective is free to join, with paid membership options for businesses seeking additional exposure and support through MySurpriseAZ.org. Whether you're launching a new business or looking to strengthen an existing one, you'll find value in being part of this business-driven local initiative.

🔗 Join Now and become part of a movement that’s strengthening the local business community in Surprise!