We are excited to announce that applications are now open for AEDC’s FY27 Accelerator Program. 

The Arkansas Business and Technology Accelerator Grant Program, provided for by Act 165 of 2017, was created to stimulate innovation and growth among the state’s technology businesses. The program may provide discretionary grants of up to two hundred fifty thousand dollars ($250,000) to eligible applicants to sponsor business and technology programs to mentor start-up companies and foster economic growth.

About the FY27 Accelerator Program:
The Accelerator Program offers a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to gain access to vital resources, including expert mentorship, funding opportunities, networking events, and tailored business development workshops. The initiative is designed to support innovative startups and small businesses in accelerating their growth and achieving their full potential. Our goal is to foster innovation and support the creation of high-impact businesses within our community.

Eligibility Criteria:
A “Business and Technology Accelerator” is a full-time, immersive program administered by an eligible applicant to potentially invest in, mentor, and accelerate commercial development of start-up businesses.

The Accelerator Grant Program is subject to continued appropriation and funding. Applicants must be in good standing with the office of the Arkansas Secretary of State and must meet the program definition of an eligible applicant.

Application Process:
Eligible applicants seeking Accelerator Grant Program funding must apply here: Accelerator application

Applications will close at 4 p.m. on Friday, July 24th

Please understand that the AEDC is a public entity of the State of Arkansas and applications submitted to the AEDC, including all supporting documentation, are subject to the requirements of the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act, Ark. Code Ann. §§ 25-19-101 et. seq. (“FOIA”), and other applicable provisions of Arkansas’ record retention laws governing the retention and preservation of state government agency records. 

Accelerator Grant Program funding shall be made on a reimbursable basis, payable when invoices, receipts, summary updates, and financial reports are submitted and reviewed by the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development Division at AEDC.

For more information about the program, please visit the following link: Accelerator Program Rules. 

We look forward to receiving your application and learning more about your innovative program. If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact Laura Kingrey at laura.kingrey@arkansasedc.com. 

Thank you for your interest in the FY27 Accelerator Program. Together, we can drive innovation and economic growth in our state.