@TucsonMayor
Mar 4, 2026
Celebrating Women-Owned Businesses
59m
Throughout Women’s History Month I’m sharing the stories of Tucson’s many women-owned businesses and the ways they improve our community. Now more than ever, we need to stay rooted in reality and support our local shops, restaurants and other businesses. Keeping our dollars in our community is a strong response to what’s happening at the national level, so please support the wonderful Tucson business owners you’ll meet all this month.
Today we’re meeting Erica Yngve, owner and president of Sonoran Stitch Factory at 609 W. Rillito St. Sonoran Stitch is a cut-and-sew manufacturer specializing in sewn goods and apparel. It started when Erica was looking to start her own apparel line and found a small manufacturer: “One thing led to another, and the owner ultimately offered to sell me her small, one‑client shop along with some of her machines. I decided to take the leap, purchased the business, and slowly grew it.”
What started as a search for a manufacturer for her own products turned into a full business that continues to grow and evolve. She now manages more than a dozen contract manufacturing accounts while developing two of her own brands. “Our staff includes refugees, people with disabilities, single moms, tribal members, veterans, students, and others seeking meaningful, purpose‑driven work,” Erica says. “Seeing how this industry can open doors for so many different people is what inspires me every day.”
For her, “Women’s History Month is an acknowledgment of the women throughout history who had to push through systemic barriers just to pursue their dreams. It’s a reminder that many have had to work harder, often without recognition or equal opportunity, and that their perseverance shaped the path I am on today.” She’s glad to see so many people “continue to recognize these systemic issues and remain committed to improving them, not only for women but for anyone who has been denied an equitable chance to turn their dreams into reality.” Follow her and the business at @sonoranstitchfactory and see the many unique products Sonoran Stitch offers our community.
