Startup Junkie unveils OzarkSpark with USDA Rural Development support to expand services across the Arkansas Ozarks

OzarkSpark expands Startup Junkie’s no-cost consulting, workshops, mentoring and access-to-capital guidance in nine counties across northwest and north-central Arkansas

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark., November 12, 2026: Startup Junkie Foundation today unveiled OzarkSpark, a program that brings its free business help to entrepreneurs and small businesses across the Arkansas Ozarks. OzarkSpark is supported by a Rural Business Development Grant from USDA Rural Development.

The program serves nine counties: Baxter, Benton, Boone, Carroll, Madison, Marion, Newton, Searcy and Washington. Entrepreneurs can get one-on-one consulting, workshops, mentoring and help finding capital at no cost, whether they are starting a business or growing one. Help is available in their own communities, at Startup Junkie’s Fayetteville office, by phone or online.

“Good ideas don’t stop at the edge of the metro,” said Caleb Talley, Executive Director of Startup Junkie Foundation. “OzarkSpark brings the help we have offered in Northwest Arkansas for more than a decade closer to home for entrepreneurs across the Ozarks. If you lead a chamber, an economic development office or a community group in one of these counties, tell us what your entrepreneurs need and we will bring a workshop to you.”

To request help or a workshop, visit startupjunkie.org/spark or email team@startupjunkie.org. Spanish-language assistance and accommodations are available at no charge.

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About Startup Junkie Foundation: Startup Junkie Foundation is a Fayetteville, Arkansas 501(c)(3) that educates, inspires, and supports entrepreneurs through no-cost, no-equity consulting, events and workshops, the Fuel Accelerator, and Kiva NWA microloans. Founded in 2015, the Foundation serves founders across Northwest Arkansas and the state. Learn more at startupjunkie.org.

OzarkSpark is supported by a Rural Business Development Grant from USDA Rural Development. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Media contact

Caleb Talley, Executive Director, Startup Junkie Foundation
caleb@startupjunkie.org | 479-879-7997