Unleash Your Potential To Drive Arkansas Forward
FLIPspace: Advanced Mobility Arkansas offers a unique opportunity to transform transportation across the state by tapping into the power of federal intellectual property (IP). With exclusive access to innovative technologies and patents sourced from federal research labs across the U.S., you’ll work alongside other passionate innovators to solve real transportation challenges—whether that is designing reliable options for rural communities, creating eco-friendly solutions to cut emissions, or reimagining how people and goods move across urban and remote areas.
This access to federal IP means you can fast-track projects with cutting-edge solutions developed by top scientists and engineers, ready to be adapted to Arkansas’ specific needs. Through advanced mobility innovations, you’ll bring new ideas to life to make transportation more efficient, sustainable, and connected for everyone.
FLIPspace is a seven-month program tailored for Arkansas-based postgraduates, faculty, university staff, and administrators who are driven to make an impact. You don’t need a technical background in advanced mobility—just curiosity and a willingness to tackle real-world problems. Apply solo or with colleagues, and you’ll be matched with other dedicated participants to form a three-person team. Together, you’ll dive into hands-on training in areas like:
- Tech transfer basics: Learn how to leverage federal IP to create tangible, market-ready solutions.
- Lean startup methodologies: Gain practical business-building skills to take your concept to market.
- Design thinking: Approach challenges creatively and design solutions that meet real user needs.
- Pitch preparation: Develop and refine your pitch for a chance to present to Highway Ventures, an Arkansas-based venture studio, for potential incubation and funding.
Through the program, you’ll access exclusive mentorship from industry professionals, tailored training sessions, and ongoing support to bring your solutions to life.
With Arkansas’ unique transportation landscape—from rural roadways to bustling freight routes—this program positions you to solve state-specific challenges. Imagine addressing questions like:
- How can we improve access to remote areas with limited public transportation?
- What green solutions could be used for freight and goods movement?
- How might we create sustainable transit options for local communities?
Your journey in FLIPspace will include dedicated guidance from mentors and experts from organizations like the Federal Laboratory Consortium for Technology Transfer, Highway Ventures, and the Licensing Executives Society. These advisors will support you in applying cutting-edge IP to tackle pressing problems and craft practical solutions.
Key Program Features
- Support every step of the way: You’ll receive $2,000 per team member to fund your participation, plus access to resources, mentors, and industry connections.
- Exclusive access to federal IP: Work with national innovations directly applicable to Arkansas’ needs.
- Pitch event with Highway Ventures: Present your solution to a venture studio for potential investment and incubation.
- Community of innovators: Join a statewide network of changemakers, each passionate about bringing fresh ideas to advanced mobility and creating lasting regional impact.
Who Should Apply?
FLIPspace invites Arkansas-based postgraduates, faculty, and university-affiliated staff eager to address real-world challenges through innovation. Whether you’re new to tech or a seasoned pro, if you’re driven to make an impact in Arkansas’ advanced mobility scene, this program is for you. Join a startup environment where you can bring ideas to life—no need to come with an invention in hand, just have a desire to explore and create.
Application deadline: December 4, 2024.
Join a Collaborative Effort To Transform Arkansas Mobility
The FLIPspace: Advanced Mobility Arkansas program is made possible through the support and dedication of our partners, including the Walton Family Foundation, the Federal Laboratory Consortium for Technology Transfer, Highway Ventures, the Licensing Executives Society, and The Institute for Integrative & Innovative Research at the University of Arkansas. These organizations are committed to empowering Arkansas’ next generation of problem-solvers, providing valuable resources, guidance, and expertise to help you develop solutions with real impact.
With their support, you’ll have access to mentorship, funding, and pathways for growth, creating an ecosystem that allows your innovative ideas to thrive. Together, we’re fostering an environment where ambitious thinkers can address Arkansas’ unique challenges and transform the future of advanced mobility in our state.
Ready to be part of this journey? Apply by December 4, 2024, and take the first step toward shaping the future of Arkansas mobility!
