Marla Johnson

Marla Johnson is a tech entrepreneur, business leader, and advisor who helps entrepreneurs turn promising ideas into businesses that solve real problems. She brings 30 years of experience building a company, navigating emerging technology, and helping people turn new tools into new opportunity. As Cofounder and CEO of an internet company in 1995, Marla learned firsthand that building a business takes more than a compelling idea. It takes strong cofounder relationships, clear accountability, an understanding of customers, and the ability to adapt. Her experience spans travel and tourism, banking, IT, healthcare, retail, gaming, manufacturing, and professional services — giving her a broad perspective on the challenges founders face and the possibilities they might overlook. Marla advises entrepreneurs on branding, digital marketing and advertising, influence marketing, and customer acquisition, including using AI to research markets and reach customers more effectively. She also helps founders strengthen the business behind the brand through leadership, culture, cofounder accountability, and improvements to processes involving HR, finances, and compliance. A gifted teacher who has trained thousands of people across the country, Marla makes complex ideas accessible and helps entrepreneurs build confidence in their own judgment. Her approach starts with understanding the business, the people behind it, and the customers they serve — then identifying where focused action can make the greatest difference. As the first Tech Entrepreneur-in-Residence at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Marla works alongside STEM students and faculty to expand entrepreneurship and business innovation. She also coordinates the university’s Corporate and Community AI Training. Across these roles, her purpose is consistent: equip Arkansas innovators to build stronger businesses, solve problems that matter, and create lasting value in their communities.