Anyone considering starting a business can hear first-hand about the life of a small business owner at Startup Small Talk, a free event on May 7 at 6 p.m. at UA Little Rock Downtown, 333 President Clinton Ave.

 The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock College of Business are presenting the session in conjunction with National Small Business Week. 

Prospective and current small business owners are invited to bring business cards and network before local entrepreneurs Jesse Steelman of Spec Ops Gaming Lounge and Matcha Norwood of Cinnalightful share their inspiring startup stories. Their TED-style talks will offer advice for aspiring business owners, including how to find success through failure.

Spec Ops opened in September at Little Rock’s Shackleford Crossings Shopping Center. Gamers can play the most popular computer and video games in comfort, enjoy the fun and competition of playing with friends, and meet other gamers in a safe setting.

Also based in Little Rock, Cinnalightful is a wholesale gourmet bakery that makes scratch-made desserts and pastries for restaurants, coffee shops, and corporate clients. 

Startup Small Talk is offered free of charge thanks to a Portable Assistance grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration. While there is no cost to attend, pre-registration is required. Register online at tinyurl.com/y28f2wac or call (501) 683-7095.

Based at UA Little Rock, the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center assists entrepreneurs at every stage of business development and growth. Core services include no-cost consulting and market research. Learn more at asbtdc.org.