Venture Center, Arkansas Bankers Association Launch Second Year of Fintech Accelerators

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The Venture Center, in partnership with the Arkansas Bankers Association, has announced the return of the Arkansas Banking Solutions Accelerator (ABSA).

Now in its second year, the 2025 ABSA will follow a hybrid model with a virtual incubator and accelerator program running for 12 weeks. 10 selected companies will engage with Arkansas banks, receive mentorship, refine their offerings and build relationships within the banking industry.

The accelerator is designed to introduce ready-to-deploy technologies that address the needs of banks and their consumer, commercial, urban and rural customers.

Each company selected for the 2025 cohort will showcase their solutions at a September Demo Day in Little Rock, where they’ll present to potential investors, financial institutions and community leaders.

“Our ongoing partnership with the Arkansas Bankers Association allows us to provide a strong platform for bank-enabling startups to develop transformative solutions, build real relationships with financial institutions and grow in a meaningful way,” Daniel Schutte, vice president of accelerator programs, strategic partnerships and special opportunities at The Venture Center, said in a press release.

The first year of the accelerator also featured 10 participants, including SmartEye Technology of Bentonville.

“The success of the inaugural program demonstrated the real value of connecting innovative startups with forward-thinking banks,” Lorrie Trogden, president and CEO of the Arkansas Bankers Association, said in the release. Our member banks are committed to staying ahead of the curve, and this initiative plays a vital role in driving meaningful innovation that enhances customer experience and operational efficiency across the industry.”

The 2025 program kicks off July 7. Applications will be accepted through June 7.