UA Little Rock Launches Fall 2025 Tech Entrepreneurship Course in Partnership with Forge Institute

Students at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock will have the unique opportunity this fall to learn how to build and launch a startup through a new interdisciplinary course offered in collaboration with Forge Institute’s Embers Xcelerator program.

The new course, Tech Entrepreneurship, will be led by Marla Johnson, UA Little Rock’s tech entrepreneur-in-residence, and guided by seasoned experts from the Forge Institute. The course provides full academic credit and gives students access to industry leaders, mentors, and real-world problem-solving experiences.

“This course is for students who are curious about startups and want to take their ideas from concept to reality,” Johnson said. “Whether you’re a coder, a designer, a business major, or an engineer, this is your chance to build something meaningful with a team of innovators.”

Students will spend the semester turning their startup ideas into viable business concepts. With guidance from instructors and mentors, they will explore topics such as product development, customer discovery, branding, legal structures, and investment strategy. The course culminates in a professional pitch presentation, giving students a chance to showcase their venture to a panel of experts.

The Tech Entrepreneurship course is open to both undergraduate and graduate students from all majors. It’s especially designed for students in business, entrepreneurship, computer science, cybersecurity, engineering, and any field where innovation and technology play a central role. Students will work to develop solutions to real-world challenges in areas including cybersecurity, AI, energy, electronics, health, entertainment and advanced manufacturing.

With access to mentorship, practical instruction, and a supportive entrepreneurial environment, students will leave the course with the tools, experience, and confidence needed to launch their own ventures. The course will also help students prepare for the Arkansas Governor’s Cup Collegiate Business Plan Competition.

The course will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 12:15 p.m. during the fall 2025 semester. For more information, contact Johnson at [email protected].