STARTUP JUNKIE
Empowering entrepreneurs, innovators, and small business leaders since 2008.
Startup Junkie is home to a growing network of programs dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs, innovators, small business owners, and community leaders. While each initiative has its own focus, they are all part of one organization working toward a shared goal: creating thriving businesses, stronger communities, and a culture of innovation. Explore our programs below to learn how we’re making an impact and how we can support your journey.
WHO WE ARE
Startup Junkie’s journey began in 2008 with the launch of Startup Junkie Consulting, which formally organized as an LLC in 2011 and built its reputation by providing no-cost consulting services to entrepreneurs. To expand the reach, impact, and depth of these services, Startup Junkie Foundation was established in 2015 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Together, these two organizations share the same purpose, mission, vision, and values, working to strengthen entrepreneurial ecosystems through no-cost one-on-one consulting, events, workshops, programs, and access to capital and talent. While rooted in Northwest Arkansas, Startup Junkie’s impact extends far beyond the Ozarks, supporting emerging entrepreneurial communities across the United States and around the world, from Canada to South America and Asia.
STARTUP JUNKIE CONSULTING
Startup Junkie Consulting provides no-cost one-on-one consulting, technical assistance, events, and resources for entrepreneurs and small business owners. The team helps founders overcome challenges, identify opportunities, and move their businesses forward.
STARTUP JUNKIE FOUNDATION
Startup Junkie Foundation develops and delivers programs that expand access to entrepreneurship, innovation, and ecosystem-building opportunities. Through education, outreach, and community initiatives, the Foundation helps strengthen entrepreneurial communities.
OUR PROGRAMS & INITIATIVES
Click on any program below to learn more about its mission, services, and opportunities.
* Indicates a Startup Junkie Consulting program. All other programs operate through Startup Junkie Foundation.
CONDUCTOR *
Conductor empowers entrepreneurs, innovators, and small business leaders through no-cost consulting, educational programming, strategic connections, and community support. Whether you’re starting a business or scaling an existing one, our team helps you access the resources you need to grow.
Serving Central Arkansas.
ARISE *
ARise supports Arkansas innovators, startups, and tech-enabled companies with no-cost coaching, expert guidance, and connections to resources that accelerate growth. The program helps founders navigate challenges related to commercialization, scaling, and innovation.
Serving Arkansas.
FUEL ACCELERATOR
KIVA NWA
Kiva NWA helps entrepreneurs access 0% interest, crowdfunded loans that can be used to start or grow a business. The program expands access to capital by connecting founders with a global community of lenders.
Serving Northwest Arkansas.
75STRONG *
75Strong equips community leaders across Arkansas with training, tools, and best practices to support entrepreneurship-led economic development. The program helps communities build stronger entrepreneurial ecosystems and better support local businesses.
Serving Arkansas.
ARNOLD INNOVATION CENTER *
The Arnold Innovation Center is a collaborative workspace and entrepreneurial hub designed for founders, innovators, and small business owners. Members gain access to workspace, meeting rooms, educational programming, and a supportive entrepreneurial community.
Serving Central Arkansas.
Startup Junkie Podcast
The Startup Junkies podcast is hosted by Jeff Amerine and his team at Startup Junkie. We cover topics ranging from planning, growing your business, proving your concept, leadership, and so much more. We’ll interview business owners, entrepreneurs, and people we think will bring value to our audience.
Serving Nationwide.
Startup Crawl
Every fall, the Downtown Fayetteville Square comes alive for the biggest startup party in the Heartland. Meet founders, see demos, enjoy live music and local brews, and celebrate Northwest Arkansas entrepreneurship alongside 70+ startups, food trucks, and more.
Serving Nationwide.
10X ACCELERATOR *
The 10X Growth Accelerator is a no-cost, intensive program designed to help tech and tech-enabled companies scale. Participants work alongside experienced advisors to strengthen leadership, operations, strategy, and long-term growth.
Serving Arkansas.
ESO SUMMIT *
The ESO Summit convenes entrepreneurship support organizations, educators, economic developers, and community leaders from across the region. The event focuses on sharing best practices, building connections, and strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Serving Arkansas.
LITHIUM REGIONAL INNOVATION CLUSTER *
The Lithium Regional Innovation Cluster is a nationally recognized U.S. SBA initiative focused on advancing energy innovation and strengthening the domestic lithium value chain. Through partnerships, commercialization support, and industry collaboration, LRIC helps drive the future of energy in the United States.
Serving Nationwide.
INNOVATION JUNKIE *
Innovation Junkie is a strategic consulting firm that helps organizations build stronger teams, develop effective strategies, and drive innovation. The team works with businesses, nonprofits, and institutions to create meaningful and measurable results.
Serving Nationwide.
CORE VALUES
DO THE RIGHT THING
TAKE THE INITIATIVE
DON’T MAKE EXCUSES
GO THE EXTRA MILE
TAKE CARE OF EACH OTHER
HAVE FUN
Results Driven Insights, Tools, & Connections
MEET THE TEAM
Behind every program, event, and success story is a team committed to creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and communities to thrive.
Brett amerine
Managing Director of Finance and Administration, Startup Junkie Consulting
jeff standridge
Managing Director of Growth & Strategy, Startup Junkie Consulting
grace gill
Director & Consultant, Fuel Accelerator, Startup Junkie Foundation
danny duong
Operations Manager, Fuel Accelerator , Startup Junkie Fondation
harrison kitson
Director of Marketing & Outreach, Startup Junkie Foundation
daniel konce
Director of Community Events & Partnerships, Startup Junkie Foundation
kate loughridge
Marketing & Communications Manager, Conductor, Startup Junkie Consulting
savannah walthall
Community & Event Coordinator, Conductor, Startup Junkie Consulting
jernej adamic
Director, Global Business Development, Startup Junkie Constuling
NOT SURE WHERE TO START?
You don’t need to know which program is right for you. Whether you’re launching a startup, growing a small business, exploring innovation opportunities, seeking funding, or building a stronger community, our team can help connect you to the right people and resources.