PHOENIX, ARIZ. (September 15, 2026) – Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation (AEF) is celebrating 50 years in business in 2026, marking five decades of specialized commercial and business escrow service while looking ahead to continued growth in Arizona and beyond.
Founded in 1976, the woman-owned company has grown alongside Arizona’s business community while remaining independently owned and focused exclusively on escrow. Today, AEF works with business owners, brokers, attorneys, lenders and companies across Arizona, the U.S. and internationally.
The anniversary year has also brought several notable milestones for AEF and its leadership.
AEF recently became an Arizona Cardinals Small Business Partner, connecting the company with one of Arizona’s most recognized organizations and expanding its visibility throughout the state.
The company has also been named a 2026 BBB Torch Awards for Ethics finalist. BBB’s highest honor recognizes businesses for excellence in leadership, workplace culture, customer care and community impact. The competition includes businesses throughout Greater Arizona, San Diego County and Orange County, with the winner to be announced November 19, 2026.
AEF President Annette Anderson was named one of AZRE magazine’s Most Influential Women in Real Estate for 2026, following CEO Monica May-Dunn, who received the recognition in 2024.
May-Dunn was also named a Top 10 finalist for the 2026 NAWBO National Woman Business Owner of the Year Award, recognized during NAWBO Days in Washington, D.C. on May 31.
“Reaching 50 years gives us an opportunity to appreciate the people and relationships that built this company, but we’re equally focused on what comes next,” May-Dunn said. “We want to continue growing without losing the personal service, independence and expertise that have defined AEF for five decades.”
AEF’s plans for its next chapter include exploring opportunities for national expansion while maintaining its Arizona roots and continuing to modernize the escrow experience. The company is investing in technology that can improve efficiency, transaction visibility, document exchange and communication, while keeping personal relationships at the center of its service.
As AEF celebrates its golden anniversary, its direction remains true to the principles that have carried the company through its first 50 years: specialized expertise, personal attention and a commitment to getting the details right.
“Fifty years in business is more than a milestone; it is a reflection of the trust our customers, employees, partners, and communities have placed in us over five decades,” Anderson said. “We are incredibly proud of the legacy we have built together and grateful to the generations of people who have contributed to our success. As we celebrate where we’ve been, we remain focused on the future and the opportunities ahead. The best chapters of our story are still being written.”
About Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation
Founded in 1976 by Donald E. Graham, Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation is Arizona’s largest independent escrow provider, specializing in business sales, personal property, and commercial real estate transactions. Its customer base includes individuals, businesses, business and real estate brokers, law firms, commercial and SBA lenders, banks, major corporations, tribal communities, state and municipal government organizations and departments, internet entities, and other parties requiring an experienced and professional escrow company. Under the leadership of CEO Monica May-Dunn since 2023, Arizona Escrow & Financial remains committed to personalized service, instilling confidence in clients, and setting the standard for excellence in the escrow industry. For more information visit arizonaescrow.com.
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