Ozark Retail Accelerator 2026

About

A 12-week accelerator program designed for consumer product businesses ready to scale, providing access to retail expertise, operational training, and networking opportunities with industry leaders. Participants will learn essential skills for navigating the retail landscape and gain insights from experienced mentors who have successfully scaled suppliers in major retail environments.

Benefits

• 🚀Retail Expertise
  Access to hands-on guidance from experienced retail operators and category leaders
• 🤝Networking Opportunities
  Connect with potential buyers and industry experts in the retail ecosystem
• 📚Educational Workshops
  Participate in workshops focused on operations, merchandising, and supply chain management
• 💼Operational Readiness
  Gain practical tools for retail operational readiness to enhance business scalability
• 🌍Market Access
  Opportunities to place products in large omnichannel retailers

Eligibility Criteria

• Arkansas-based or Arkansas-committed consumer product businesses
• Must have a real product in the market with early sales
• Founders should be past the idea stage and ready to scale
• Must be interested in scaling through large, omnichannel retail
• Ready to invest 12 weeks in learning operations, merchandising, supply chain, and digital readiness

Participation Commitments

• Must commit to a 12-week program duration
• Attendance at all scheduled workshops and events is required
• Submission of product samples by the specified deadline
• Active participation in learning and networking activities throughout the program

Target Region

Focused on businesses in Arkansas or those committed to the region

Target Sector

Consumer products and retail