UNLOCKED is Arouet’s signature convening—bringing together leaders from business, government, philanthropy, and community to advance workforce solutions that expand opportunity and strengthen Arizona’s talent pipeline.
Date: October 29, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Arizona Biltmore | Phoenix, AZ
Date: October 29, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Arizona Biltmore |
Phoenix, AZ
Why UNLOCKED?
Arizona’s workforce future depends on our ability to unlock untapped talent and meet the evolving needs of employers.
Across the country, labor shortages are impacting businesses at every level. At the same time, there are millions of capable individuals—particularly those impacted by the justice system—who remain excluded from the workforce due to outdated policies and barriers to employment.
In fact, more than 80 million Americans have an arrest or conviction history, representing one of the largest untapped talent pools in the country.
UNLOCKED moves leaders beyond conversation and into action—elevating employer practices, policy priorities, and cross-sector partnerships that expand access to this talent, strengthen communities, and drive economic mobility.
What to Expect
UNLOCKED brings together leaders and changemakers to drive bold solutions
that expand opportunity and strengthen Arizona's workforce
300+ decision-makers
Leadership convening of 300+ decision-makers across business, government, and community
Policy Launch
Launch of Arouet's workforce policy priorities and White Paper
Leadership Recognition
Recognition of leaders through signature awards honoring impact and innovation
Featured Conversation
A featured conversation with voices from business, sports, and civic leadership
Honoring Leadership
Together, these honors reinforce Arouet’s guiding principal:
Lasting progress is driven by leadership in action
Featured Honoree
Legacy of Opportunity Award
Larry Miller
Chairman of the Jordan Brand at Nike |
Founder, JUMP (Justice and Upward Mobility Project)
Larry Miller will receive the Legacy of Opportunity Award in recognition of his extraordinary leadership and influence. A global sports executive and nationally recognized advocate for expanding opportunity, Miller’s story reflects the power of leadership to transform lives and open doors for others.
Our Honorees
Jim McCain
Champion of Workforce Award
Board Member,
Arizona Board of Regents
Sharon Harper
Systems Change Champion Award
CEO, Chairman and
Co-Founder of Plaza Companies
Sen. Flavio Bravo
Fair Chance Leadership Award
State Senator
Partner With UNLOCKED
UNLOCKED offers a unique opportunity to align your organization with forward-thinking workforce leadership in Arizona.
Sponsors will:
- Engage directly with 300+ senior leaders across sectors
- Be recognized for advancing innovative hiring and workforce solutions
- Support efforts that unlock untapped talent and strengthen Arizona’s economy
$50,000 | PREMIER SPONSOR – BARRIER BREAKER
Driving bold systems change and unlocking opportunity at scale
$50,000 | PREMIER SPONSOR – BARRIER BREAKER
Driving bold systems change and unlocking opportunity at scale
$25,000 | SYSTEMS LEADER SPONSOR
Advancing statewide solutions for workforce opportunity
$15,000 | CHANGE DRIVER SPONSOR
High-impact visibility and engagement
$10,000 | OPPORTUNITY MAKER SPONSOR
Mission-aligned presence and brand visibility
$5,000 | COMMUNITY BUILDER SPONSOR
Foundational support for fair chance employment
For more information or to secure your sponsorhip please contact us directly:
Anaiis Ballesteros
VP of External Affairs & Advancement
aballesteros@arouetempowers.org
Be Part of What's Next
UNLOCKED is more than an event—it’s a platform for leadership in action.
Venue
Arizona Biltmore
2400 E Missouri Ave
602-955-6600
Thursday, October 29, 2026
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
