AEDC-supported business growth program accepting applications

Fayetteville-based Startup Junkie Consulting is partnering with the Arkansas Economic Development Commission through the 75Strong program to launch the third phase of its statewide entrepreneurship initiative, which includes a new program to support business growth statewide.

Startup Junkie and Conway-based Conductor launched the 75Strong Business Building Program to help Arkansas businesses develop the strategy, systems and leadership needed to scale sustainability. The 24-week program will accept 100 companies from across the state, Conductor announced Tuesday (Jan. 27).

The program is open to Arkansas-based companies with annual revenues between $100,000 and $10 million that are growth-oriented and interested in building a path toward long-term success. Applications are open and will be accepted through April 10. The program begins April 29. Link here for the online application.

The program is 100% online with no in-person attendance required. There’s no cost for the companies accepted into the program because of an investment from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. The AEDC is providing $1.49 million over three years for the 75Strong program.

Previous phases of 75Strong focused on training economic developers, chamber leaders, and community stakeholders across the state. The next phase moves this work into area economies by supporting the businesses that leaders serve.

Companies participating in the 75Strong Business Building Program will complete a diagnostic to assess opportunities and challenges, followed by biweekly virtual sessions covering seven growth areas, including financial disciplines, revenue velocity, leadership effectiveness, operational effectiveness, digital readiness and innovation readiness. On alternating weeks, businesses will have access to experienced professionals who can dive deeper into the curriculum and apply their learnings to their specific context.

“The Business Building Program is designed to meet businesses where they are and give them a clear, practical path forward,” said Drew Smith, program director of 75Strong. “When businesses grow with intention, the ripple effects are felt across their communities.”

According to the news release, the new program is designed to help businesses overcome growth barriers, improve performance, and create jobs. The program’s aim is to generate lasting economic impact in cities and rural areas across the state.

“Entrepreneurs are helping grow the economy in Arkansas by creating new jobs and building innovative businesses,” said Clint O’Neal, AEDC executive director. “Supporting entrepreneurs has been a key goal for AEDC, and the 75Strong program has played a major role in supporting entrepreneurship around the state. The 75Strong Business Building Program will be a valuable new program that helps our local entrepreneurs develop and scale their businesses.”