StartupNWA seeking applicants for series

StartupNWA, an initiative of the Northwest Arkansas Council, is accepting applications for its October 2024 VC Immersions series, a program designed to lower barriers for startups seeking early-stage capital, according to a news release.

The application deadline is Sept. 30.

The release shows the series is the first and only initiative of its kind in the United States and will take place from Oct. 29 to 30. It will connect entrepreneurs and venture capital firms, offering access to funding, mentorship and opportunities to build relationships often needed to secure investor support.

“The VC Immersions series is poised to reshape the venture capital landscape by expanding opportunities beyond traditional coastal hubs,” said Serafina Lalany, executive director of StartupNWA. “With nearly 75% of venture capital concentrated in California, New York and Massachusetts, StartupNWA aims to open opportunities for early-stage startups in Arkansas and the heartland.”

The October series will expand on the February pilot event and include one-on-one pitch meetings between selected startups and visiting VC firms. So far, 20 firms plan to participate, representing more than $4 billion in assets under management. They will come from eight states and Washington, D.C.

The selected startups will be announced in the second week of October. More information is available online at this link.