Hosted by The Venture Center, AAPI Achieve is designed to empower entrepreneurs of Asian American and Pacific Islander descent in Arkansas. This mentorship initiative connects AAPI business owners with seasoned professionals who provide guidance, resources, and valuable industry insights. Learn more
Diversity Business Resources
The Little Rock Regional Chamber empowers diverse business owners and entrepreneurs. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand, our curated list of resources is designed to support diverse businesses in achieving their goals. Here, you’ll find comprehensive links to local business accelerator programs, free technical assistance, funding opportunities, networking events, and tools tailored to help you thrive.
Explore, connect, and take your business to the next level—because your success is our priority.
AAPI Achieve
Arkansas Economic Development Commission
The Arkansas Economic Development Commission's Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) resources offer tools and support to help minority and female entrepreneurs prosper, including directory listings, certification assistance, and access to state contracts.
BioVentures
With an emphasis on connecting research and entrepreneurship, BioVentures provides tools such as financial possibilities, mentorship, and access to a network of professionals to assist in transforming innovative concepts into success. Learn more
Conexion de Negocios Latinos
Conexión de Negocios Latinos (CNL) offers comprehensive services to empower Latino entrepreneurs and businesses in Arkansas. Through tailored mentorship, business consulting, and workshops, CNL helps bridge gaps and foster growth, creating opportunities for Latino businesses to thrive and succeed in a competitive market. Learn more
Spark! Accelerator
Qualifying applicants will be startup companies with traction, full-time company founders and a Central Arkansas resident with an annual recurring revenue of at least $25,000. Benefits of the program include the opportunity to pitch at Pitch ‘N Pint, unlimited mentorship for the duration of the program, subject matter workshops, exposure via web and print platforms and more!
VCWomen Achieve
An annual mentorship program through The Venture Center dedicated to forming meaningful relationships and helping an entire community of women flourish through mentorships and professional coaching. Learn more
Apex Accelerator
The Arkansas APEX Accelerator, formerly known as PTAC, helps small businesses in Arkansas navigate the complexities of government contracting. By offering training, resources, and one-on-one counseling, it equips businesses to secure local, state, and federal contracts, fostering growth and economic opportunities. Learn more
Arkansas Small Business Technology Development Center (ASBTDC)
The ASBTDC assists new and seasoned entrepreneurs with consulting, market research and training. They also assist with business creation, management and operation.
Businesses United In Leadership Development (B.U.I.L.D.) Academy and Emprende
A 12-week business development initiative that walks local business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs through topics pertaining to business essentials made available in English and Spanish. Learn more
Minority Business Empowerment Program
Southern Bancorp’s Minority Business Empowerment initiative is dedicated to uplifting minority entrepreneurs by providing access to critical resources and financial tools. Through personalized coaching, funding opportunities, and educational support, this program empowers business owners to overcome barriers and achieve sustainable growth. Learn more
U.S. Small Business Administration
Each year, the Arkansas District Office helps to provide about $100 million in loans to small businesses. The office and their SBA-funded partners provide management training and consulting to thousands of entrepreneurs, and they help small business owners pursue contractors from the federal government and prime federal contractors.
Women’s Foundation of Arkansas
The Women Empowered initiative by the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas is transforming the future for women by unlocking pathways to economic independence and entrepreneurial success. Through the Women’s Economic Mobility Hub (WEM Hub), women gain access to tailored training, expert mentorship, and invaluable resources designed to break barriers and fuel lasting growth. Learn more
Need more information?
Contact Teuana Smith
Director, Diversity Initiatives & Programming
501.377.6031