“We are thrilled to announce our first cohort that will help shape the future of cycling,” said Martial Trigeaud, Founder and Cohort Advisor of the AGCA program. “Each selected company brings unique technological solutions that align perfectly with our mission to establish Arkansas as a hub for the cycling industry and cycling innovation.”<\/span> The selected companies for the AGCA\u2019s\u00a0 inaugural cohort include:<\/span><\/p>\n Blubrake<\/b><\/a>: <\/b>(Milan, Italy) Blubrake\u2019s mission is to help e-bike brands build better and safer e-bikes. Thanks to its high-tech braking product, Blubrake is dramatically improving braking experience for safer and more confident rides. Blubrake applies best-in-class technology to build anti-lock brake systems (ABS) specifically designed for e-bikes. https:\/\/blubrake.com\/<\/span><\/p>\n BrakeAce<\/b><\/a>: <\/span>(Rotorua, New Zealand) BrakeAce is the first-to-market braking analytics platform revolutionizing mountain bike performance and safety with data-driven insights. https:\/\/www.brakeace.com\/<\/span><\/p>\n Hightag<\/b><\/a>: (Bentonville, Arkansas) Hightag installs smart cameras throughout action sport facilities, giving cyclists and other athletes the power to automatically capture footage of themselves while they ride. https:\/\/www.hightag.com\/<\/span><\/p>\n Kino Bikes<\/b><\/a>: (Lyon, France) Kino Bikes converts non-cyclists to e-bikes for their daily commute by providing a multi-use cargo bike. https:\/\/kino.bike\/<\/span><\/p>\n Link My Ride<\/b><\/a>: (United Kingdom) Link My Ride is a mobile app and web platform providing tools for communities to connect and build real-life relationships through cycling. https:\/\/linkmyride.com\/<\/span><\/p>\n Lockstop<\/b><\/a>: (Bentonville, Arkansas) Lockstop is a patent-pending Smart Lock that mounts to existing bike racks, providing free, secure parking for cyclists while generating real-time mobility data to help cities optimize infrastructure, reduce emissions, and drive active transport adoption. https:\/\/www.lockstop.co\/<\/span><\/p>\n NOCA<\/b><\/a>: (Berlin, Germany) NOCA is the connected master data platform for the cycling industry to structure and manage master data in a single source of truth across all teams, and systemically share it with supply chain partners. https:\/\/www.noca-mobility.com\/<\/span><\/p>\n Posedla<\/b><\/a>: (Varnsdorf, Czech Republic) Posedla is revolutionizing cycling comfort with custom 3D-printed saddles. https:\/\/posedla.com\/<\/span><\/p>\n Skarper<\/b><\/a>: (London, England) Skarper is the newest generation of e-bike drive systems, transforming regular bikes into e-bikes and back again in one click. https:\/\/skarper.com\/<\/span><\/p>\n TrailPilot<\/b><\/a>: (Bentonville, Arkansas) TrailPilot is an app that creates GPS-guided audio tours for MTB trails, helping destinations share their story while giving riders a seamless, immersive way to explore. With turn-by-turn navigation and local insights, TrailPilot makes every ride easier, safer, and more engaging. https:\/\/www.trailpilot.co\/<\/span><\/p>\n These companies will participate in AGCA’s intensive hybrid program, gaining access to key investors, industry mentors, and strategic partnerships with leading brands. The program, facilitated by the Startup Junkie Foundation and the University of Arkansas Office of Entrepreneurship & Innovation’s Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program (GORP), will leverage Arkansas’s world-class cycling infrastructure, professional network,\u00a0 and vibrant cycling community.<\/span><\/p>\n The program will commence in March 2025, with companies participating in virtual and in-person sessions in Bentonville, Arkansas. The public is invited to attend the program\u2019s <\/span>Demo Night<\/span><\/a> on May 20 at the Ledger, the<\/span> first-ever bikeable building. Participating cohort companies will also be onsite at <\/span>Bentonville Bike Fest<\/span><\/a> to engage with festival attendees.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The accelerator program is made possible by a $125,000 grant from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission and matching funds from the Walton Family Foundation. This investment reinforces Arkansas’ commitment to becoming a global center for cycling innovation and technology. Leading U.S. bicycle industry trade and advocacy organization<\/span> PeopleForBikes<\/span><\/a> is sponsoring the program\u2019s Demo Night event alongside the <\/span>Morgridge Family Foundation<\/span><\/a>. PeopleForBikes will also provide programmatic support to help international founders better understand U.S. market trends, regulations, and rider demographics.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n For more information about the Arkansas Global Cycling Accelerator or the selected companies, please visit<\/span> www.cyclingaccelerator.com<\/span><\/a> or contact AGCA staff at <\/span>agca@uark.edu<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n About the Startup Junkie Foundation:<\/b> The <\/span>Startup Junkie Foundation<\/span><\/a> is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Northwest Arkansas that focuses on supporting entrepreneurs and fostering economic development. The foundation works to provide resources, mentorship, and educational programs to help entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses, with a particular emphasis on serving underrepresented founders and rural communities.<\/span><\/p>\n About the Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program<\/b>: The <\/span>Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program<\/span><\/a> (GORP) is a business incubation program focused on the development of entrepreneurs who are creating innovative products and services within the outdoor recreation industry. Launched by the University of Arkansas <\/span>Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation<\/span><\/a> in 2022, the program has directly supported 47 companies through its cohort incubator and program staff have consulted on over 400 business ideas in the outdoor recreation space.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n About PeopleForBikes:<\/b> PeopleForBikes<\/span><\/a> is a national bike foundation and the U.S. bicycle industry\u2019s trade association representing more than 340 bicycle industry supplier members and nearly 1.4 million individuals. Through our three areas of influence \u2014 infrastructure, policy, and participation \u2014 we accelerate the construction of safe, fun, and connected places to bike; advance pro-bike and pro-bike-business legislation; and welcome more people to the joys of riding a bike. Our goal: Become the best place to ride a bike in the world. Join us at <\/span>PeopleForBikes.org<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n About the Morgridge Family Foundation:<\/b> The<\/span> Morgridge Family Foundation<\/span><\/a> invests in leaders and organizations that are reimagining solutions to some of today\u2019s biggest challenges. MFF offers vision, community, and resources to support a network of partners achieving their profound impact. Learn more at <\/span>thinkmff.org<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n Contact:\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n Caleb Talley<\/span><\/p>\n Executive Director<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n Startup Junkie Foundation<\/span><\/p>\n caleb@startupjunkie.org<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n Website:<\/strong><\/p>\n www.cyclingaccelerator.com<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" BENTONVILLE, Arkansas USA (February 27, 2025) \u2013\u00a0The Arkansas Global Cycling Accelerator (AGCA) has selected 10 innovative companies from a broad pool of international applicants. These companies represent the cutting edge of cycling technology and innovation, from performance analytics platforms to e-bikes and custom manufacturing. “We are thrilled to announce our first cohort that will help […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":3852,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":" ARise is on a mission to empower tech ventures in Arkansas to scale up, create high-wage employment opportunities, and drive world-class technological innovation throughout the state. With a vision of becoming the driving force behind entrepreneurial economic growth in Arkansas, ARise aims to establish the state as a premier destination for tech companies worldwide to start and scale their businesses.<\/p>\r\n\r\n ARise offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to support startups and entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey:<\/p>\r\n\r\n ARise provides personalized consulting and coaching to guide tech ventures toward success, from concept validation to scaling strategies. Differentiating itself from other programs, ARise provides its startups with coaching on a continued basis and regular check-ins to ensure each venture has a customized plan to receive services and support.<\/p>\r\n\r\n ARise helps startups navigate the capital landscape, connecting them with funding opportunities and providing the support they need to secure investment. Whether a startup is looking for venture capital or non-dilutive government support, ARise assists innovators with securing the best funding for the current stage of their company. The program also offers investor recruitment and education to support startups within Arkansas.<\/p>\r\n\r\n ARise's network of SMEs and mentors offers invaluable guidance and support across industries, empowering entrepreneurs to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. This SME network provides a breadth of knowledge for new ventures, including the expertise of those who have grown their own companies and those who have proficiency in highly specialized fields like biotechnology, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and retail value chain management.<\/p>\r\n\r\n As a collaboration between Startup Junkie, Conductor, and the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, ARise facilitates connections between startups and established companies to foster growth and expansion.<\/p>\r\n\r\n ARise strengthens the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Arkansas through a comprehensive digital resource library, targeted events, and collaborations with other entrepreneurial support organizations.<\/p>\r\n\r\n The ARise program is open to tech and tech-enabled ventures that are Arkansas-based and scalable. All services are offered at no charge to entrepreneurs across the state. To enroll in the program, visit\u00a0www.ARiseArkansas.org<\/a>\u00a0to (1) complete an onboarding application and (2) schedule an initial consultation with a program representative.<\/p>\r\n\r\n \u201cGrowing technology companies is critical for Arkansas\u2019 long-term economic success. The ARise program is a key element of our strategy for providing support and resources for tech ventures as they scale up in the Natural State.\u201d - Clint O\u2019Neal, Executive Director, Arkansas Economic Development Commission<\/p>\r\n \u201cLaunching a tech venture is a challenging endeavor \u2013 and entrepreneurs do not always have the resources they need to succeed. Through the ARise program, we aim to provide tech entrepreneurs with the resources and expertise they need to grow and scale their businesses. We are excited to collaborate with Startup Junkie Consulting on the management of the ARise program to help tech entrepreneurs create high-tech business growth in the Natural State.\u201d - Esperanza Massana Crane, Director, AEDC\u2019s Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development Division<\/p>\r\n \u201cARise reflects our vision and brand promise to help AEDC drive an increasingly bright future for Arkansas-based tech and tech-enabled ventures.\u00a0 We could not be more excited to be partnered with AEDC for this critical statewide program.\u201d\u00a0- Jeff Amerine, Co-Director at ARise & Founder and Managing Director at Startup Junkie Consulting<\/p>\r\n \u201cWe\u2019ve built the ARise program and services to fill gaps for tech and tech-enabled entrepreneurs looking to scale within our state and to open doors for those entrepreneurs within our state - we want entrepreneurs to have access to all our state has to offer including SMEs, industry partners, and other resources.\u201d - Grace Rains, Co-Director at ARise & Executive Director at Conductor<\/p>\r\n ARise - Arkansas Innovators, Startups, and Entrepreneurs is on a mission to empower tech ventures in Arkansas to scale up, create high-wage employment opportunities, and drive world-class technological innovation throughout the state. This is a collaborative initiative funded by the Arkansas Economic Development Organization and led by Startup Junkie. ARise is dedicated to empowering tech ventures in Arkansas through consulting and coaching, capital access, a subject matter expert network, industry connections, and ecosystem resources.<\/p>\r\n For media inquiries, please contact:<\/p>\r\n Kristopher Adams, ARise Program Manager<\/p>\r\n kris@arisearkansas.org<\/a><\/p>\r\n 479-402-0036<\/p>\r\n Tyler Hale, Communications Officer<\/p>\r\n tyler.hale@arkansasedc.com<\/a><\/p>\r\n 501-410-7883<\/p>\r\n For more information about ARise, visit\u00a0arisearkansas.org<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n Follow ARise on\u00a0Facebook<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0LinkedIn<\/a> for updates and announcements.<\/p>\r\n About Arkansas Economic Development Commission<\/p>\r\n At AEDC, we know economic advancement doesn\u2019t happen by accident. We work strategically with businesses and communities to create strong economic opportunities, making Arkansas the natural choice for success. AEDC is a division of the Arkansas Department of Commerce. To learn more, visit ArkansasEDC.com.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[14],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4119","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-press-release"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/startupjunkie.org\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4119","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/startupjunkie.org\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/startupjunkie.org\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/startupjunkie.org\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/startupjunkie.org\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4119"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/startupjunkie.org\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4119\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4143,"href":"https:\/\/startupjunkie.org\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4119\/revisions\/4143"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/startupjunkie.org\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3852"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/startupjunkie.org\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4119"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/startupjunkie.org\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4119"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/startupjunkie.org\/ko\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4119"}],"curies":[{"name":"\uc6cc\ub4dc\ud504\ub808\uc2a4","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
<\/span>
<\/span>The cohort includes three of Arkansas\u2019 own companies: Hightag, Lockstop, and TrailPilot. \u201cSupporting Arkansas entrepreneurs is core to our mission,\u201d noted Caleb Talley, Executive Director of the Startup Junkie Foundation, one of the program\u2019s facilitators. \u201cWe look forward to connecting our hometown founders with their global peers and to hosting the full group for an immersive experience in Bentonville.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n![\"ARise](\"https:\/\/startupjunkie.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/ARise-300x300.png\")
\r\nIntroducing ARise: Arkansas Innovators, Startups, and Entrepreneurs<\/h1>\r\nFayetteville, Conway, and Little Rock, Ark.- June 20, 2024 -<\/strong> Arkansas's tech entrepreneurs have a new ally in their journey towards success with the launch of ARise - Arkansas Innovators, Startups, and Entrepreneurs. A fresh and expanded iteration of the Arkansas Statewide Technology Commercialization program formerly known as Innovate Arkansas, ARise is an ambitious initiative funded by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission and led by Startup Junkie, aimed at propelling tech and tech-enabled companies in Arkansas to new heights of innovation and economic vitality.\r\n\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/startupjunkie.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/ARise-Startup-Junkie-Conductor-AECD-Tech-Program-1-300x200.jpg\")
\r\nMission & Vision<\/h3>\r\n
Program Services<\/h3>\r\n
\r\n \t
Startup Consulting and Coaching<\/h4>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
\r\n \t
Capital Access Navigation<\/h4>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
\r\n \t
Advanced Subject Matter Expert (SME) Network<\/h4>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
\r\n \t
Connection to Industry<\/h4>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
\r\n \t
Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Resources<\/h4>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
Enrollment<\/h3>\r\n
Quotes<\/h3>\r\n