Science and Technology Institute conference underway in Little Rock

The state Science and Technology Institute (SSTI) will hold its annual national conference in Little Rock, Ark., starting May 2. It’s a first-time visit for the non-profit organization.

The conference is expected to draw more than 250 professionals and policymakers coming from over 40 states and Washington D.C. who are active in creating a better future through science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The Arkansas Research Alliance (ARA) formed a coalition of corporate and public organizations to recruit the conference to the Natural State.

“Arkansas is the perfect host state for SSTI, as we and our local partners offer a rich alchemy of resources and services to drive the state’s growth into a new-age economy focused on talent and innovation,” said Bryan Barnhouse, ARA president and CEO.

The local partners represent a continuum of organizations that are catalytic in achieving this vision, which includes StartupJunkie/Conductor, the Walton Family Foundation, Northwest Arkansas Council, Winrock International (Innovate Arkansas), University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, University of Arkansas, Hytrol, Entergy Arkansas, Arkansas Blue Cross/Blue Shield, LiveRamp, and others.

Serving as the conference’s keynote speaker is Carter Malloy, founder and CEO of AcreTrader, an Arkansas-based company that recently raised $60 million in series B venture funding. AcreTrader helps people to buy and sell land smarter with advanced technology, data, and expertise.

“Bringing the conference to Little Rock and sharing the story of what is happening in Arkansas with others will give people from throughout the country the opportunity to see the progress that’s being made in the state,” said Dan Berglund, SSTI president and CEO.