Arkansas Entrepreneurs Wanted for Pitch Contest Spotlighting AI Business Ideas – News
Photo by Benjamin Krain.
Ideas for applying artificial intelligence to business challenges will take center stage at the Amazon Web Services AI Pitch Competition April 16 at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.
The prize is $50,000 in services from PREDICTif Solutions, funded by Amazon Web Services.
Hosted by the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center, along with UA Little Rock’s School of Business, Tech Launch and Workforce Development Center, this contest is for Arkansas entrepreneurs with innovative ideas for transforming business operations and accelerating growth with AI.
The competition is open to Arkansans who are in business or have a business idea, across all industries. The business does not need to be an AI company or technology startup.
“We are seeking current and future Arkansas entrepreneurs who envision practical, creative, high-impact ways to put AI to work in a business setting,” said ASBTDC State Director Laura Fine.
An idea might solve an operational challenge, increase revenue, expand market reach or create scalable efficiencies.
Entrepreneurs must apply for a spot in the competition. Selected participants will pitch their AI concept in front of judges and have the opportunity to win up to $50,000 worth of professional services from PREDICTif to support development of the winning idea.
This prize is not cash and not AWS credits. Instead, it is AWS Partner-funded support delivered through technical resources, architecture guidance, and solution development services. All competitors will receive expert feedback on how to bring their concepts to life.
The Amazon Web Services AI Pitch Competition will take place Thursday, April 16, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., at the Donald W. Reynolds Center for Business and Economic Development on the UA Little Rock campus. The event is open to the public and free of charge.
“The community is invited to join us for a fun and inspiring time. Come enjoy the pitches, support Arkansas innovators and expand your AI knowledge,” said Fine.
Visit luma.com/eyzl670q to get more details, sign up to pitch or register to attend.
In the first four months of 2026, AWS and PREDICTif will hold 34 pitch competitions with Small Business Development Center partners nationwide, with more expected. “We are thrilled to bring this opportunity to Arkansas through our SBDC connection,” Fine said.
For questions about the event, contact ASBTDC’s Laterika Tooks-Staton at 501-804-4530 or [email protected].
ASBTDC offers no-cost services and resources for Arkansas entrepreneurs and small businesses. Learn more at asbtdc.org.
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