About ARise
Empowering Arkansas Startups and Entrepreneurs to Rise to Success
Who We Are
If you are an aspiring entrepreneur or a small tech company looking to grow and create high-wage, high-demand jobs, ARise has the perfect solution for you. Our program, supported by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC), assists tech and tech-enabled innovators, startups, and entrepreneurs in transforming their concepts into highly successful businesses.
We offer a comprehensive suite of resources and connections designed to empower you and promote collaborative learning. By bringing together experienced professionals, investors, and educational opportunities, ARise provides the support you need to overcome obstacles and achieve your business goals.
What We Do
ARise empowers tech innovators, startups, and entrepreneurs to grow and create high-wage, high-demand jobs by providing resources and connections. We host networking workshops and events, help you secure venture capital, and provide no-cost coaching and consulting. We also work with and educate investors to connect them with tech startups so your innovative ideas have the backing they need to thrive.
Program Services
Startup Consulting and Coaching
After an assessment to understand your company’s unique needs, we connect you with resources and support to grow your business.
Capital Access
Navigation
Our consulting prepares you to raise capital, pitch to investors, and secure grants and state incentives for eligible projects.
Advanced Subject Matter Expert Network
Gain insights from our diverse network of professionals (SMEs) who offer technical support and mentoring.
Connection to Industry
Find customers, partners, and market entry opportunities to connect with potential partners and customers around the world.
Connection to Industry
Find customers, partners, and market entry opportunities to connect with potential partners and customers around the world.
Ecosystem Resources
We provide advanced tech talks, investor education, and VC days to connect you with funding and collaboration opportunities.
Our Process
Our Partners
Arkansas Economic Development Commission
ARise is an AEDC program that provides support for Arkansas innovators so that they can turn their inventions into viable businesses. AEDC is committed to working strategically with Arkansas businesses to promote economic development.
Startup Junkie
Startup Junkie has worked for over 15 years to build a thriving and accessible entrepreneurial ecosystem in the state of Arkansas. They offer no-cost consulting services and resources to startups and small businesses in Northwest Arkansas.
Conductor
Conductor has been working for nearly 10 years to provide assistance to small business owners, entrepreneurs, and innovators in Arkansas. They work to facilitate business growth that contributes to the health and strength of our community.
Meet Our Team
Jeff Amerine
Co-Director, ARise
Founder and Managing Director, Startup Junkie Consulting
Grace Rains
Co-Director, ARise
Executive Director, Conductor
Jeff Standridge
Executive Venture Consultant, ARise
Managing Director, Conductor
Brett Amerine
Executive Venture Consultant, ARise
Managing Director, Startup Junkie Consulting
Caleb Talley
Venture Consultant, ARise
Executive Director, Startup Junkie Foundation
Matthew Ward
Venture Consultant, ARise
Senior Executive Consultant, Startup Junkie Foundation
Kate Loughridge
Marketing Manager, ARise
Marketing Manager, Conductor
Kristopher Adams
Program Manager, ARise
Frequently Asked Questions
We educate and connect startups with investors who are interested in backing innovative technology and new business ideas.
We’re looking for companies that want to scale or grow through the utilization of technology.
We offer a wide range of resources, including mentorship programs, strategic connections, educational opportunities, and access to our SME Network.
ARise is dedicated to supporting tech and tech-enabled startups only within Arkansas, aiming to encourage local innovation and economic growth.
Complete our onboarding form at www.arisearkansas.com/apply. Once we’ve received your completed form, we’ll follow up with an invitation to schedule an initial conversation. We’ll discuss your venture and determine how we can best support you.
Ready to Take Your Business to the Next Phase?
Apply to join the ARise program today and then schedule your initial consultation to begin transforming your innovative ideas and startups.
