Phoenix Rising FinTech Partners with AZ Hugs to Turn Community Into Action
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Arizona's technology community is coming together this summer to support a cause that extends far beyond startups and innovation.
Phoenix Rising FinTech, Silicon Oasis' fintech pillar partner, has partnered with local nonprofit AZ Hugs to launch a fundraising campaign supporting individuals and families experiencing homelessness across the Valley. The initiative aims to raise $10,000 to provide emergency hotel stays, temporary housing assistance, essential supplies, and other critical resources for those facing housing insecurity.
As shelters continue to operate at or near capacity, many Arizonans are left without a safe place to sleep. AZ Hugs works to bridge that gap by responding with immediate assistance while helping connect individuals and families with longer-term support.
Founded by Austin Davis, AZ Hugs focuses on meeting urgent needs with compassion and practical action, offering temporary shelter, emergency resources, and personalized support to people navigating difficult circumstances.
To help reach the fundraising goal, Phoenix Rising FinTech will host a Pizza Making Fundraiser & Founder Pitch Night at Pitch Pizzeria in Scottsdale on Thursday, July 30, at 6:00 p.m.
The evening will combine community service with Arizona's startup ecosystem as attendees prepare pizzas that will be donated to those in need while also hearing pitches from local technology founders. Startup founders interested in presenting their companies are encouraged to apply before July 22.
The event reflects a broader vision shared by many organizations within Arizona's innovation community—that the relationships built through entrepreneurship can also create meaningful impact beyond business.
Whether attending the fundraiser or contributing online, every donation will directly support AZ Hugs' efforts to provide emergency housing and essential services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
"Arizona's startup ecosystem has always been about more than building companies," said Kasey Morrow, Founder of Phoenix Rising FinTech. "It's also about building stronger communities and showing up for our neighbors when they need us most."
Silicon Oasis is proud to support partners who demonstrate that innovation and community service can go hand in hand. As Arizona's technology ecosystem continues to grow, initiatives like this highlight the opportunity for founders, investors, and operators to make a meaningful difference both inside and outside the startup community.
Event Details:
Pizza Making Fundraiser & Founder Pitch Night
Date: Thursday, July 30, 2026
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Pitch Pizzeria, Scottsdale
Tix to Pizza & Pitch Fundraiser 7/30:
GoFundMe (if you can't attend but would like to support):
https://www.gofundme.com/f/emergency-housing-for-families-in-arizona-extreme-heat
Tech Founder Pitch -Apply here by 7/22:
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