Welcome to the first edition of the StartupNWA Release Notes, dispatched from the heart of innovation in Northwest Arkansas. With a longstanding commitment to bolstering our local economy, the Northwest Arkansas Council continues to spearhead efforts that not only convene our business community but also ensure its prosperity through the growth of our startup and venture sectors.
I’m excited to announce the launch of this newsletter, which is designed to be the central hub of entrepreneurial news and updates in our ecosystem. Whether you’re a founder, investor, or part of our dynamic ecosystem, there’s something in this newsletter for everyone.
Keep reading below for more stories, news, and updates, and stay tuned for upcoming announcements on new initiatives… 🥁🥁🥁
Let’s thrive together!
✏️ A special note to our startups: We’re eager to support your journey—whether it’s connecting with customers, accessing vital resources, or scaling your operations in NWA. Drop us a line to tell us about your upcoming raise or if there are customer connections that we can assist with. We’re here to help!
Crisp 🖥️
New York-based retail tech startup, recently secured $50M in funding to accelerate its expansion with a focus on Northwest Arkansas.
Smart Eye Technologies 👁️
Relocated to Bentonville and opened offices at Ledger
SupplyPike🔨
Launched a product extension of their revenue loss solution for Home Depot
LIVSN👖
Launched three new women’s products following a successful fundraising round
University of Arkansas 🐷
A team in the McMillon Innovation Studio has partnered with Nestlé to pilot a DiGiorno pizza kiosk (a first for this brand) on campus
Do you have a milestone to celebrate? Email us to be featured. We want to celebrate with you!
MAY 3
APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR THE 2024 TYSON DEMO DAY
Ready to disrupt the food supply chain? Apply now for Tyson Demo Day 2024. We’re seeking startups in logistics, warehousing, sustainability, distribution, predictive analytics and beyond to pitch their game-changing solutions at Tyson Foods on July 17.
APRIL 22
SUPPLY CHAIN TRENDS & EXPO
Join Plug and Play Tech Center and the University of Arkansas for groundbreaking experience exploring the transformative power of AI and Automation within the supply chain and how it enhances decision-making processes, and streamlines operations to unprecedented levels.
APRIL 29
BOUNDS ACCELERATOR DEMO DAY
Bounds Accelerator is an Arkansas-based, next-generation technology startup accelerator focused on AI/ML, AR/VR, and blockchain-based solutions.
MAY 7-9
CORTADO'S MIDCON VC SUMMIT
The annual convergence of the top Midwest VCs, startups, entrepreneurs, tech innovators, and business leaders from the Midwest to connect, share insights, and explore the future of technology and innovation.
FOUNDERS: Don’t miss your chance to get up close and personal with active investors! Use the link below to sign up for our founder + investor speed-dating event at the Summit.
INVESTORS TO MEET: Boyd Street | Echo Health Ventures | Flyover Capital | Mercato Partners | Mercury Fund | Perot Jain | RevTech Ventures | And many more…
”We've rounded up 50 burning questions and unleashed them on Haley Bryant, principal at Hustle Fund, who is armed only with her wits and a love for all things startup. From the wild to the wise, these questions are designed to peel back the layers of the investment world. Join us and discover just how deep the venture rabbit hole goes!
What you'll find:
HALEY BRYANTHUSTLE FUND
🧠 Her Approach to Investing
🎭 Investment Strategy
🎯 Entrepreneurial Advice
🛠️ Future of Innovation in Northwest Arkansas
Startup NWA is part of the Northwest Arkansas Council—a private, nonprofit organization working to advance job opportunities, talent recruitment, physical infrastructure, health care, and quality of life.
