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Wed April 29, 2026

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RAMP Launches New Accelerator to Fuel Manufacturing Growth and Create Jobs in Arkansas

#Reel Advanced Manufacturing Program (RAMP) #Arkansas Manufacturing #Economic Growth #Workforce Development
RAMP Launches New Accelerator to Fuel Manufacturing Growth and Create Jobs in Arkansas
LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas — A new statewide accelerator is now accepting applications to help small and mid- sized manufacturers across Arkansas strengthen operations, increase revenue, and create high-quality jobs. The Reel Advanced Manufacturing Program (RAMP), sponsored by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) and the Walton Family Foundation, is now welcoming participants for its upcoming cohort. The program is administered by ReeLyfe Solutions in partnership with the U.S. Small Business
Administration (SBA). RAMP is part of a statewide initiative led by AEDC to invest in innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce development across Arkansas. Designed as an execution-focused accelerator, RAMP supports manufacturers in improving productivity, modernizing operations, and building scalable systems for long-term growth. “The program is about positioning businesses to scale by providing education, knowledge, and hands- on experience. Our goal is to help companies establish internal infrastructures that serve as a catalyst
for long-term success, ” said Corichia Brisco, founder of ReeLyfe Solutions and RAMP Program Administrator. Through a structured cohort model, participating companies receive leadership training, operational guidance, and implementation support to strengthen performance and drive measurable results. Delivered in partnership with the SBA, RAMP equips participants with tools to build scalable processes and improve execution. “RAMP reflects a continued commitment to strengthening U.S. manufacturing by investing in the leaders
and companies driving local and regional economic growth, ” said Jerry Talbert, Deputy Director of the SBA Arkansas District Office. “This accelerator provides a structured approach to execution and supports manufacturers as they build the capabilities needed to compete, expand, and create jobs.” “This program is designed to meet businesses where they are and move them forward in a practical way. We’re focused on educating participants, equipping them with the tools they need, and helping them build businesses that are positioned for success, ” said Dr. Lupita Roy Rasheed, RAMP Program Director.
RAMP provides leadership training and hands-on implementation using the 5x Growth Operating System (5xGOS). “Growth doesn’t happen by chance, it requires structure. The 5xGOS gives manufacturers a framework to make key leadership and operational decisions through five distinct shifts that drive alignment, improve performance, and support long-term growth, ” said Mark Hill, 5xGOS creator and RAMP’s Delivery Partner.
Participants will also have the opportunity to showcase their progress through capstone presentations and a pitch competition, with select businesses eligible for a stipend to support continued growth. Beyond training and implementation support, RAMP also connects participants with industry leaders and partners, including Northwest Arkansas Sheet Metal, Pink House Alchemy, Bad Boy Mowers, Conveyor Technology Inc., Cooling Applied Technologies, and Swanson Welding, providing real-world insights and mentorship.

RAMP will host two launch events for interested manufacturers:

Northwest Arkansas RAMP Launch
The Ledger
240 S. Main Street
Bentonville, AR 72712
Thursday, April 30, 2026 | 1:00 PM CT

Little Rock RAMP Launch
Philander Smith University
Kendall Mission Center Atrium
900 Daisy L. Gatson Bates Dr.
Little Rock, AR 72202
Wednesday, May 7, 2026 | 1:00 PM CT

Applications for the upcoming cohort are open through May 14, 2026.
Manufacturers can apply at www.ramptogrowth.com.

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