Tech startup program, ARise, kicks off
by June 21, 2024 5:40 am 135 views
Arkansas’ tech entrepreneurs have a new tool to use. ARise – Arkansas Innovators, Startups, and Entrepreneurs – was launched Thursday (June 20). It’s an iteration of the Arkansas Statewide Technology Commercialization program formerly known as Innovate Arkansas.
ARise, funded by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission and led by Startup Junkie, aims to propel tech and tech-enabled companies in Arkansas.
“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,“ said Clint O’Neal, executive director, Arkansas Economic Development Commission.
ARise aims to aid tech ventures in Arkansas to scale up, create high-wage employment opportunities, and drive world-class technological innovation throughout the state.
“Launching a tech venture is a challenging endeavor – and entrepreneurs do not always have the resources they need to succeed. 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,” said Esperanza Massana Crane, director of AEDC’s Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development Division.
The ARise program is open to tech or tech-enabled ventures that are Arkansas-based and scalable. All services are offered at no charge to entrepreneurs across the state. To enroll in the program, visit www.ARiseArkansas.org to complete an onboarding application and schedule an initial consultation with a program representative.
“ARise reflects our vision and brand promise to help AEDC drive an increasingly bright future for Arkansas-based tech and tech-enabled ventures. We could not be more excited to be partnered with AEDC for this critical statewide program,” said Jeff Amerine, co-director at ARise & Founder and managing director at Startup Junkie Consulting.