As the Valley’s original sports team, the Phoenix Suns have remained dedicated to the rich history and culture of the Hispanic community.
In 2018, the Suns launched the Los Suns Small Business MVP, an initiative to highlight outstanding Hispanic small business owners and entrepreneurs that fuel our local economy.
On March 25, during the home contest against the Philadelphia 76ers, the Suns in partnership with FirstBank recognized small business leaders Maria Cordova and Mia Ortiz of Mia’s Flower Shop in Phoenix. Maria is the founder of the local floral shop working alongside her daughter Mia, who manages the business’s operations. The 2023 Los Suns Small Business MVP award is one of six FirstBank Empowerment Awards launched this season to celebrate and recognize minority-owned small businesses across Arizona.
Mia’s Flower Shop received a $5,000 grant courtesy of FirstBank to support the business. In addition to the on-court recognition, the local floral company will receive a one-on-one interview with Arturo Ochoa from La Mejor 106.5 and the Spanish television network Univision.
In search of the American Dream and a better future for her, Cordova migrated to the United States from Sonora, Mexico two decades ago. She had a passion for her community and desired to create something larger than herself, despite the hardships she faced with starting a business.
With the help of supportive friends and family, Mia’s Flower Shop was established to serve the Valley Latino community and beyond with fresh floral arrangements for any occasion.
For Ortiz, she’s proud the business and its staff (comprised of all family members) honor and represents their culture and people.
“We all proudly speak Spanish, and it is important for us to make everyone feel like familia.”
Cordova is grateful for the recognition as a testament to her and her daughter’s hard work.
“Thank you to the Suns, FirstBank and the community for supporting our family owned business.”