ARise (Arkansas Innovators, Startups and Entrepreneurs), a fresh and expanded iteration of the program formerly known as Innovate Arkansas, has officially launched. Funded by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission and led by Startup Junkie, the program’s goal is to propel tech and tech-enabled companies in Arkansas to new heights of innovation and economic vitality.
“Launching a tech venture is a challenging endeavor – and entrepreneurs do not always have the resources they need to succeed,” Esperanza Massana Crane, Director of AEDC’s Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development Division, said. “Through the ARise program, we aim to provide tech entrepreneurs with the resources and expertise they need to grow and scale their businesses. We are excited to collaborate with Startup Junkie Consulting on the management of the ARise program to help tech entrepreneurs create high-tech business growth in the Natural State.”
Mission & Vision
According to its press release, ARise is on a mission to empower tech ventures in Arkansas to scale up, create high-wage employment opportunities and drive world-class technological innovation throughout the state. With a vision of becoming the driving force behind entrepreneurial economic growth in Arkansas, ARise aims to establish the state as a premier destination for tech companies worldwide to start and scale their businesses.
Program Services
ARise offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to support startups and entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey:
- Startup Consulting and Coaching
ARise provides personalized consulting and coaching to guide tech ventures toward success, from concept validation to scaling strategies. Differentiating itself from other programs, ARise provides its startups with ongoing coaching and regular check-ins to ensure each venture has a customized plan to receive services and support. - Capital Access Navigation
ARise helps startups navigate the capital landscape, connecting them with funding opportunities and providing the support they need to secure investment. Whether a startup is looking for venture capital or non-dilutive government support, ARise assists innovators with securing the best funding for their company’s current stage. The program also offers investor recruitment and education to support startups within Arkansas. - Advanced Subject Matter Expert (SME) Network
ARise’s network of SMEs and mentors offers invaluable guidance and support across industries, empowering entrepreneurs to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. This SME network provides a breadth of knowledge for new ventures, including the expertise of those who have grown their own companies and those who have proficiency in highly specialized fields like biotechnology, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and retail value chain management. - Connection to Industry
As a collaboration between Startup Junkie, Conductor, and the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, ARise facilitates connections between startups and established companies to foster growth and expansion. - Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Resources
ARise strengthens the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Arkansas through a comprehensive digital resource library, targeted events, and collaborations with other entrepreneurial support organizations.
“Growing technology companies is critical for Arkansas’ long-term economic success. The ARise program is a key element of our strategy for providing support and resources for tech ventures as they scale up in the Natural State,” Clint O’Neal, Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, said.
Enrollment
The ARise program is open to tech or tech-enabled, Arkansas-based and scalable ventures. All services are free to entrepreneurs across the state. To enroll in the program, click here.
READ ALSO: STEPHEN LAIR GIFTS FULFILL EDUCATION DREAMS FOR FAY JONES SCHOOL STUDENTS
