Arkansas Lithium Technology Accelerator (ALTA)

What is ALTA?

ALTA is The Venture Center’s newest business-driven accelerator focused on Arkansas’ emerging lithium industry and related energy technologies. The program, co-developed with Standard Lithium and the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville, with the support of AEDC and The Walton Family Foundation, brings together Arkansas’ leading lithium producers with curated best-of-breed technology companies for their mutual benefit.

ALTA is America’s first Lithium Technology/Battery Supply Chain accelerator, with the end goal of establishing the U.S. as the new leader for next-generation lithium technology innovation, and Arkansas as the epicenter.

Companies in ALTA’s First Cohort

• Nano One – Canadian process technology company producing disruptive lithium-ion battery cathode active materials (CAM).
• RAM Geothermal – Early-stage Arkansas company building proprietary geothermal solutions for energy self-sufficient lithium production in the Smackover region.
• Telescope Innovations – Canadian chemical technology company with scalable AI/robotic solutions optimizing Direct Lithium Extraction processes.

ALTA Cohort 2: Now Open for Submissions

We’re excited to announce that submissions are now open for ALTA’s second cohort! We’re seeking the best and brightest companies ready to scale, innovate, and make an impact in the lithium industry.

Apply now by clicking the link below to secure your spot and join a curated group of forward-thinking companies driving the next wave of innovation. Our team will follow up as we move forward with submissions.

What Cohort Companies Will Gain

• Define Next Commercial Steps: Explore initial pilots and opportunities with new customers
• Advance Current Partnerships: Close pilot programs or initial commercial deals with existing customers
• Access Funding Opportunities: Connect with dilutive and non-dilutive investors to support growth
• Boost Visibility: Increase your profile with industry media, analysts, and market leaders
• Discover Arkansas Incentives: Learn the benefits of establishing an in-state presence

Why is ALTA Important?

Lithium = Critical Resource

• Lithium powers everything from smartphones to electric vehicles (EVs)
• Global demand is skyrocketing, and Arkansas has one of North America’s largest lithium reserves

Economic Growth for Arkansas

• Creates jobs, attracts investment, and strengthens the state’s role in the clean energy economy

Driving Innovation

• Supports early- to late-stage technology companies building new solutions for sustainable lithium extraction, advanced battery tech, and recycling
• Helps create supply chain independence and overcome environmental challenges

National & Global Relevance

• Supports domestic lithium production and Lithium-ion battery manufacturing to reduce reliance on foreign supply chains
• Positions Arkansas – and cohort companies – at the center of a critical national strategic effort

ALTA Cohort 2 Agenda

ALTA Cohort 2 formally kick off the week of December 1, 2025, with a three-week immersive program connecting companies with key industry stakeholder.

Week 1 – Southwest Arkansas (El Dorado & Magnolia)
December 1-3, 2025

Week 2 – Little Rock
December 8-10, 2025

Week 3 – Northwest Arkansas (Bentonville & Fayetteville)
December 15-17, 2025

More detailed agenda and session topics coming soon.

News & Updates

See how ALTA is shaping the future, & watch our PBS Arkansas Week feature below from our Executive Director, Arthur. (link to PBS AR Week)

Watch