Arkansas Economic Development Commission Awards New Technology Commercialization Center Contract

Startup Junkie Consulting named manager of program

Little Rock, Ark. (March 25, 2024) – The Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) has awarded the contract to manage the Arkansas Statewide Technology Commercialization Center to Startup Junkie Consulting, LLC.

“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, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “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, 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 of Startup Junkie Consulting. “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 that have brought in $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.

For more information or questions about the program, contact [email protected].

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About the Arkansas Economic Development Commission

At AEDC, we know economic advancement doesn’t happen by accident. We work strategically with businesses and communities to create strong economic opportunities, making Arkansas the natural choice for success. AEDC is a division of the Arkansas Department of Commerce. For more information, visit ArkansasEDC.com.

About Startup Junkie Consulting 

Startup Junkie is a mission-driven organization that exists to empower current and aspiring entrepreneurs, innovators, and small business leaders. With a goal to stimulate economic growth in the state, the organization provides a variety of services including mentorship, consulting, training, and more. Startup Junkie has an extensive network of partners and professionals that are dedicated to enhancing the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Arkansas. Startup Junkie operates locations in NWA and Conway, through a public-private partnership with the University of Central Arkansas called Conductor.