21 Oct 2024 Recruitment open for 75Strong Program; entrepreneurs can apply until Dec. 1

Posted at 5:50 PMh in News by

Startup Junkie and Conductor, in partnership with the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC), are excited to announce the official launch of recruitment for the 75Strong Entrepreneurship Program, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at strengthening and growing the entrepreneurial landscape throughout Arkansas. Applications are now open for the program, which will play a pivotal role in enhancing local economies across the state.

The program will focus on educating, equipping, and deploying local leaders—such as Economic Developers, Chamber Executives, Community Leaders, and University Representatives—throughout Arkansas. Participants will develop the skills and resources necessary to support entrepreneurs and small businesses, fostering long-term economic growth in underserved areas.

“Developing a strong network of leaders and economic developers who can support entrepreneurs and small businesses is essential for our state’s growth,” said Clint O’Neal, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “We are excited for the launch of the 75Strong program’s recruitment drive and look forward to seeing the positive results this will bring in Arkansas.”

Small businesses and startups are the backbone of the Arkansas economy, accounting for nearly 50% of all employees and 99% of all employers in the state. Yet, many of these businesses need access to entrepreneurial support and resources, which are normally concentrated in urban hubs.

The 75Strong Program aims to close that gap by empowering local leaders to serve as Entrepreneurial Developers in their communities. By equipping these local leaders with tools to support entrepreneurs, the program will catalyze business growth in regions that have traditionally been underserved.

The 75Strong Program offers numerous benefits to participants, including:

  • Entrepreneurial Development Professional (EDP) Certification: Participants will pursue the EDP credential through the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), which establishes them as certified experts in entrepreneurial development, giving them a competitive edge in their field.
  • Strategic Entrepreneurship Plan: Participants will create plans tailored to their communities or regions, enabling sustainable, long-term entrepreneurial development.
  • Business-Building Support: They will also work directly with 100+ small businesses across the state, helping entrepreneurs and startups in Arkansas’s target industries to thrive.

“Our mission is clear: to cultivate a network of empowered leaders who will champion entrepreneurship and drive sustainable economic growth throughout Arkansas.” said Grace Rains, Conductor Executive Director, “With 75Strong, we’re investing in the future of Arkansas—ensuring that our entrepreneurs have the support they need to succeed, no matter where they are located.”

The program will give preference to communities and regions with multiple applicants, indicating a region-wide interest in growing economic development through entrepreneurship, and rural, underserved, or underresourced communities or regions. 

Applications are now open and interested individuals are encouraged to apply to be part of this transformative initiative. Startup Junkie and Conductor are hosting an informational session via Zoom on the program on November 12th from 12-1 pm. Interested applicants should visit 75strongarkansas.com for more information on the program, to register for the Zoom informational session, or to apply. Applications are due by Dec. 1.