Economic Development

Arkansas Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald and Southern Arkansas University’s Cheryl Edwards discuss the state’s growing lithium industry and workforce development ahead of the 2024 Arkansas Lithium Summit.

Two Northwest Arkansas nonprofits, Bring It Home Inc. and Excellerate Foundation, are developing new models to make housing more attainable — from community land trusts in Springdale to teacher housing at McAuley Place in Bentonville.

Startup Junkie’s annual Startup Crawl filled the Fayetteville square with entrepreneurs, food, music and local craft breweries, showcasing small businesses and community connections.

Kris Adams of ARise joins Ozarks at Large's Jack Travis to discuss the accelerator’s inaugural report, highlighting how the program connects founders with expert support across Arkansas.

On today's show, we hear about a statewide tech accelerator that helps entrepreneurs start and sustain their businesses. Also, wildlife officials note that a rise in the state's black bear population means more encounters with Arkansans. Plus, our regular round-up of news from the River Valley with Michael Tilley from Talk Business & Politics.

West Memphis Mayor Marco McClendon says Google’s $1 billion data center will bring jobs, tax revenue and education support, while city leaders prepare infrastructure and community agreements.

A Walton Family Foundation study shows startups make up over 30% of northwest Arkansas businesses, with strong survival rates and growing support.

Heartland Forward’s new CEO Angie Cooper outlines plans to drive millions pf dollars toward economic impact across 20 states by 2030, focusing on innovation, technology and healthy communities.

Sherece West-Scantlebury will retire as president and CEO of the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation in October. During her 18 years there, the foundation co-founded initiatives aimed at improving education, economic standing, and social and racial equity in the state.

Pet owners in northwest Arkansas have more options than ever when it comes to finding care for their animals.