AEDC awards tech commercialization contract to Startup Junkie Consulting
by March 25, 2024 1:04 pm 908 views
The Arkansas Economic Development Commission awarded the contract to manage the Arkansas Statewide Technology Commercialization Center to Startup Junkie Consulting of Fayetteville. The new contract is initially for 16 months for $1,131,280, according to AEDC.
“Arkansas has a long history of growing innovative and industry-leading companies, and it is vital that we support our state’s entrepreneurs and the growth of high-tech companies,” said Clint O’Neal, AEDC executive director. “Through this program, we aim to help entrepreneurs scale their ideas into companies that will create high-paying jobs for Arkansans, and we look forward to working with Startup Junkie Consulting on this effort.”
The Arkansas Statewide Technology Commercialization Center, previously marketed as Innovate Arkansas through a contract with Winrock, assists new, technology-based entrepreneurs with turning inventions and high-tech concepts into viable businesses. The program’s mission is to empower tech and tech-enabled ventures in Arkansas to scale and create high-wage employment opportunities while serving as the catalyst for world-class technological innovation throughout Arkansas.
“The Startup Junkie Consulting team is honored to partner with AEDC to help drive the development and growth of tech and tech-enabled ventures all across Arkansas,” said Jeff Amerine, founder and managing director. “We know entrepreneurialism is the key to greater economic empowerment and vitality, and we look forward to supporting AEDC in this critical effort.”
Since its inception in 2008, the Arkansas Statewide Technology Commercialization Center has assisted more than 200 portfolio clients, generating $939 million in revenue.
These clients have created more than 6,000 Arkansas jobs. Program companies have received $50.9 million in federal grants and attracted a total investment of $473.6 million.
The program contract officially began March 1, 2024.