Russellville Tech Commercialization Sprint
ARise is hosting a Tech Commercialization Sprint in Russellville on October 15 to support rural tech innovators and early-stage founders. This one-day intensive features expert-led sessions on intellectual property, funding pathways, and prototype development, plus access to ongoing no-cost 1:1 consulting. Entrepreneurs will leave with practical tools, connections, and a clear path from idea to market. We'll share the knowledge you need to turn your ideas into real products and businesses.
ATU students and faculty looking to start a business or commercialize tech are welcome!
Here's our schedule if you can only join for a specific session -
9:00 – 9:15 AM | Welcome & Orientation 👋 Introductions, sprint goals, and an overview of Arkansas's innovation ecosystem.
9:15 – 10:00 AM | Customer Discovery & Lean Canvas 🧐 Identify real customer problems, validate assumptions, and map your business model with the Lean Canvas. 🎤 Amy Hopper Swan
10:00 – 10:45 AM | From Idea to Prototype 💡 The Innovation Sprint Process Turn validated ideas into testable prototypes using a rapid sprint process. 🎤 Jeff Standridge
10:45 – 11:00 AM | Morning Break ☕️
11:00 – 11:45 PM | Understanding Commercialization & Intellectual Property ⚖️ Protecting innovations, navigating IP filings, and structuring ownership, with practical tips for startups without university TTO support. 🎤 Rashauna Norment
11:45 AM – 12:30 PM | Lunch & Networking 🍽️
12:30 – 1:15 PM | Go-To-Market Strategy 📈 Build a launch plan with early adopters, pricing, and market-entry tactics for rural and emerging tech ventures. 🎤 Melissa Kempkes
1:15 – 2:00 PM | Navigating the Arkansas Innovation Ecosystem 🧭 From ARise consulting to local and statewide ESOs. Includes live sign-up for 1:1 follow-ups. 🎤 Kris Adams
2:00 – 2:45 PM | Funding Pathways for Innovators 💸 Grants, SBIR/STTR opportunities, and equity funding pathways. 🎤 Grace Rains
2:45 – 3:00 PM | Wrap-Up & Next Steps ⏭️ Key takeaways, the post-sprint consultation process, and how to earn the Rural Tech Commercialization Certificate. 🎤 Kris Adams