Multiple startup programs launch, hosted in Northwest Arkansas

Northwest Arkansas has launched two new startup programs aimed at fostering innovation in retail and lithium technology. The Ozark Retail Accelerator, led by Bentonville-based Act-II Capital Holdings, began its inaugural cohort of 12 companies, including Barham’s Ozark Beef from Conway and Carbon Chicken from Fayetteville. The 12-week hybrid program provides access to retail experts and aims to help companies scale their products for large retail chains, with funding support from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. The accelerator partners with the University of Arkansas Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, the Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce, and Benedict Enterprises. Companies like femPAQ Inc., a Fayetteville-based personal care startup, and Hillfolk, a Bentonville-based food brand, are part of the cohort, which includes businesses across food, beverage, pet care, and home goods sectors. Meanwhile, the Arkansas Lithium Technology Accelerator hosted its third cohort, focusing on lithium and battery supply chain innovation. Organized by the Venture Center in partnership with Standard Lithium and the University of Arkansas, the program connects startups like Entegris POCO Materials and NewGenium with Arkansas-based lithium producers. The initiative aims to position Arkansas as a leader in lithium technology, offering pathways to pilot projects, capital access, and investor roundtables. The accelerator’s activities took place across El Dorado/Magnolia, Little Rock, and Northwest Arkansas, featuring producer meetings, lab visits, and pitch opportunities. Last year, the Venture Center received $150,000 from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission to support the program. The goal is to accelerate commercial deployment of next-generation energy technologies while advancing U.S. leadership in battery supply chains.