Tag: startup

Events

BioVentures and ARise Host Founder’s Forum to Equip UAMS Innovators with Fundraising Strategies

BioVentures, in partnership with ARise, brought together emerging innovators and entrepreneurs for the first Founder’s Forum, a program designed to support UAMS-affiliated startup founders and teams working to translate research into real-world impact. ARise, a program supporting Arkansas innovators, startups, and entrepreneurs and backed by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC), assists tech and tech-enabled companies in reaching new levels of success. The session featured Melissa Kempkes, Executive Director of Ark Angel Alliance and ARise subject-matter expert, who led an engaging discussion on fundraising strategies for bio startups. Drawing on her experience working with early-stage companies and investors, Kempkes provided practical guidance to help founders navigate the complexities of securing capital—from initial exploration to active company building. The Founder’s Forum serves as a dynamic platform for UAMS biotech startup founders at all stages, from those exploring commercialization pathways to those actively building and scaling ventures. Through this ongoing series, BioVentures and ARise are strengthening the UAMS innovation ecosystem by connecting founders with expert insights, resources, and a growing network of support. “Programs like Founder’s Forum are critical to helping innovators move beyond the lab and into the marketplace,” said Eric Peterson, President of BioVentures. “By bringing together experienced leaders and emerging founders, we’re accelerating the path from discovery to impact.” BioVentures and ARise remain committed to empowering UAMS entrepreneurs and advancing innovations that improve health and drive economic growth across Arkansas and beyond.

March 24, 2026

ACTIVE

ACTIVE Program Accepting Applications for 2025 Cohort

The Arkansas Collaborative for Technological and Innovative Venture Equality (ACTIVE) is accepting applications for its 2025 cohort. This unique initiative is aimed at Arkansans who have faced social and economic barriers to entrepreneurship, providing them with the tools, mentorship and resources needed to advance health care and health technology innovations. Applications are welcome from UAMS faculty, trainees, students and staff, as well as members of the public. The supports early-stage startups and individuals with innovative health-related ideas, including a 10-week training series, mentorship, individualized resources, and access to valuable consultations and networking events. Be part of a community of visionaries working to shape the future of health care in Arkansas. The deadline to apply is Friday, Nov. 22. The 2025 cohort will begin in January 2025. ACTIVE is funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency’s Capital Readiness Program and is administered by BioVentures LLC. To apply, complete the application form. For more information, visit the ACTIVE website or email ACTIVE@UAMS.edu.

October 4, 2024

News

Accelerate Your Biomedical Innovation: Join the NIH SBIR/STTR Programs Event

Are you a biomedical entrepreneur or small business in need of resources to accelerate your innovation? If the answer is yes, you’re in luck! The National Institute of Health (NIH), Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center (ASBTDC), University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), and BioVentures are collaborating to bring you a one-of-a-kind event titled “Supporting Biomedical Innovation Through the NIH SBIR/STTR Programs”. This event is tailored to help biomedical entrepreneurs and small businesses uncover early-stage funding opportunities and gain insights from the success stories of local startups. With over $1.4 billion of funding available through the NIH’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, there is a wealth of opportunities to explore. What to Expect: The event kicks off with an overview of resources provided by the ASBTDC. This will provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of what support is available to them locally. Next, expect to hear from NIH Program Staff from the NHLBI, the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, and the NCI. They’ll delve into the specifics of the NIH’s SBIR and STTR programs, highlighting the available funding opportunities and entrepreneurial resources that could be a game-changer for your small business. Attendees will also gain exclusive insights from Dr. Alex Biris and Ms. Sharon Ballard, the dynamic cofounders of the local startup NuShores Biosciences. They’ll share their personal experiences with the NIH SBIR program and the journey of bringing their innovative ideas to life. Once the presentations are concluded, you’ll have a chance to clarify any doubts during a Q&A session moderated by Catherine Corley, an ASBTDC Business and Innovation Consultant. This interaction promises to be a great opportunity to get your questions answered directly from the experts. One-on-one meetings with NIH Program Staff will be available post-event. This offers you a personalized opportunity to discuss your innovative ideas and explore potential funding avenues. Key Details: “Supporting Biomedical Innovation Through the NIH SBIR/STTR Programs” is set to be a pivotal moment for biomedical entrepreneurs and small businesses in Arkansas. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to connect with the NIH, gain valuable insights into the SBIR/STTR programs, and accelerate your biomedical innovation. Mark your calendar, register now, and get ready to take your business to new heights! We look forward to seeing you there!

May 11, 2023