The Venture Center Opens Applications for 2025 Veteran-Owned Small Business Accelerator with Support from Walton Family Foundation, AEDC

Program seeks increased participation from Northwest Arkansas veterans and veteran spouses in its second year

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (Dec. 12, 2024) – The Venture Center, in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Arkansas District Office and with support from the Walton Family Foundation and the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC), is accepting applications for its second annual Veteran-Owned Small Business Accelerator. Online submissions are open until January 31, 2025. This year, the program is focused on increasing participation from veterans and veteran spouses in Northwest Arkansas.

This statewide initiative accelerates the growth of Arkansas businesses founded by U.S. military veterans and veteran spouses, equipping them with critical entrepreneurial tools, mentorship, and resources. With support from the Walton Family Foundation, the program aims to reach more veteran-owned businesses in Northwest Arkansas, offering them unique opportunities and tailored guidance. The Venture Center and SBA Arkansas District Office are committed to meeting the specific needs of veteran entrepreneurs and honoring their service through dedicated support. The Walton Family Foundation’s support for this program highlights our dedication to advancing inclusive entrepreneurship.

“At The Venture Center, we’ve seen the remarkable impact veterans have in the business world,” said Daniel Schutte, Vice President of strategic partnerships at The Venture Center. “After guiding our founding cohort through the accelerator this past year, we’re more committed than ever to giving veterans the tools and support they need to succeed. Our team, with the SBA Arkansas District Office and support from the Walton Family Foundation, are focused on addressing the unique challenges and opportunities these entrepreneurs face.”

Interested veteran entrepreneurs can apply by visiting venturecenter.co. Selected participants will have the opportunity to engage in a rigorous curriculum that covers topics ranging from business strategy and marketing to finance and growth planning. The program will culminate in a showcase event where participants can present their business ideas to potential investors, mentors, and partners.

“Our work with The Venture Center really shows the SBA’s strong commitment to supporting our veterans,” said Jerry Talbert, SBA Arkansas Deputy District Director. “These brave individuals have served our country with honor, and it’s only right that we back them in their entrepreneurial efforts. With the tools and mentorship this accelerator provides, we’re helping veteran-led businesses thrive in Arkansas and beyond.”

For more information about the Veteran-Owned Small Business Accelerator program and to apply, please visit the program’s page on venturecenter.co.

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About The Venture Center

The Venture Center is a globally recognized Arkansas-based Entrepreneurial Support Organization (ESO) that helps entrepreneurs turn their start-ups into viable, high-growth businesses. By leveraging the expertise of a world-class team of mentors, intensive programming, and introductions to the investor community, The Venture Center serves as an engine for economic growth in Arkansas and beyond. Learn more at www.venturecenter.co. Follow The Venture Center on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter (@VentureCenter), and Instagram.