Startup Junkie Announces Events to Kick Off 2026

Startup Junkie kicks off 2026 with two events to help entrepreneurs launch, grow, and connect in NWA

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Startup Junkie is kicking off 2026 with two in-person events designed to help entrepreneurs take action on their ideas, strengthen their fundamentals, and connect with the Northwest Arkansas small business ecosystem.

The year’s first event is a hands-on Lunch & Learn focused on the building blocks of starting and growing a business. Two weeks later, Startup Junkie will host a January Happy Hour to bring founders, small business owners, and community members together for networking and relationship-building.

“These events are about momentum, giving people the clarity and community they need to take the next step,” said Harrison Kitson, Startup Junkie’s Director of Marketing & Outreach.. “Whether you’re starting from scratch or growing what you’ve already built, we want entrepreneurs to leave with practical tools and real connections.”

Getting Your Business Off the Ground with Grace Gill will cover essential early-stage steps for entrepreneurs and small business owners, including Lean Canvas planning, choosing a business structure, reviewing funding options, exploring low- or no-cost marketing ideas, and testing customer demand. Attendees will also receive a curated list of Northwest Arkansas resources, and a Bank OZK representative will be available to share small business banking products and guidance.

Startup Junkie’s January Happy Hour at Fayetteville Beer Works is designed for anyone looking to meet like-minded entrepreneurs, innovators, and small business owners in a casual setting. Attendees can expect conversation, community-building, and an easy way to plug into the local ecosystem early in the year. Free drinks will be available for attendees (21+), and pre-registration is encouraged so organizers can plan accordingly.

Event Details:

Lunch & Learn: Getting Your Business Off the Ground with Grace Gill

• Tuesday, January 13, 2026 | 12:00–1:00 p.m.
• Startup Junkie | 1 East Center Street #270, Fayetteville, AR 72701

January Happy Hour at Fayetteville Beer Works

• Tuesday, January 27, 2026 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.
• Fayetteville Beer Works | 2649 E Mission Blvd #1, Fayetteville, AR 72701

About Startup Junkie Foundation

Startup Junkie is a mission-driven organization that exists to improve lives through innovation and entrepreneurship. With a goal to stimulate economic growth in the region, the organization provides a variety of services, including mentorship, consulting, training, and more. Startup Junkie has an extensive network of partners and professionals dedicated to enhancing the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Northwest Arkansas. The Foundation has helped thousands of entrepreneurs through one-on-one consulting and hosts over 200 events and programs a year.

Media Contact:

Harrison Kitson, Director of Marketing & Outreach

Harrison@startupjunkie.org