We inspire social and economic change in Arkansas and around the world.
The Venture Center focuses on education, collaboration, and acceleration within the startup ecosystem. To fuel innovation, we partner with entrepreneurs, corporations, universities, government agencies, non-profits, venture funds, service providers, program alumni and other organizations in the community.
Educate.
The cornerstone of any successful venture is education. Our team of mentors and industry experts is committed to providing quality training and resources to build sustainable companies of all sizes. VC workshops and seminars allow professionals, founders, and those with new business ideas to build skills according to their unique focus, enhancing their professional toolkit by staying informed of current best practices and proven methods for advancing their goals and objectives while enhancing investability.
Collaborate.
Leveraging our large network of mentors, universities, government economic development organizations, and corporate partners, we create an environment that is conducive to galvanizing the growth of early-stage companies by enabling collaboration, mentorship, peer-based learning and the sharing of innovative ideas across the globe to help start-ups launch and fortune 500 companies innovate effectively.
Accelerate.
We work with a variety of corporate entities to help them solve problems where technology is pivotal in their quest to better serve their stakeholder. Our immersive accelerators bring market-validated solutions to our clients, fueling innovation and accelerating go-to-market strategies for growth-stage companies participating in our programs. Our methodology provides a unique opportunity to connect with C-suite level global executives and decision-makers and learn from a comprehensive curriculum addressing go-to-market, business, and finance challenges. Our accelerator programs are unlike any other in the country.
James Hendren | Chairman of the Board, The Venture Center
Ray Dillon | Philanthropist & Retired CEO, Deltic Timber Corp.
Mike O’Malley| Executive In Residence, FIS
Millie Ward | President, Stone Ward
Jay Chesshir | CEO, Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce
Jim Womble | EVP Business Development, PrivacyStar
Bill Yoder | CEO, Watch House International
John Haley | President, Co-Chief Investment Officer, Circumference Group
Collins Andrews | FIS Executive in Residence
VC Crew is our exclusive group of volunteers, supporters, and friends of the Venture Center. By helping out at our events, and spreading the word about upcoming events and seminars, VC Crew members gain access to our space for meetings, amenities, and exclusive networking opportunities every quarter. VC Crew members will also get special shoutouts, recognition, and opportunities to be featured in our newsletters and digital platforms, just for being at our events!
We’re in the heart of downtown Little Rock and we want you to be here in-person for our free community events. But we know you have one burning question on your mind…”where do I park?”
The Venture Center, in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Arkansas District Office, announced Tuesday (Sept. 19) applications are open for the Veteran Owned Small Business Accelerator. Read More
Arkansas veterans will have an opportunity to join a local business-accelerator program to enhance the growth of small firms in the state run by fellow U.S. military veterans. Read More
The Venture Center, in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration, SBA Arkansas District Office, today announced applications are open for the Veteran-Owned Small Business Accelerator. This initiative is a new statewide program to accelerate the growth of Arkansas businesses founded by U.S. military veterans. Read More
