The Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center at Fort Smith (IEC) is a joint effort of the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, the Greater Fort Smith Chamber of Commerce and the City of Fort Smith, which represents their commitment to work together in addressing critical barriers to a more robust economy.

The launch of the IEC was a major milestone in the implementation of the "Tipping Point" economic development strategy. It is a signal of region's commitment to creating an environment that is conducive to the establishment of new companies and to the growth of companies already thriving in the region.

OUR PURPOSE > The IEC will be a catalyst for entrepreneurial growth.
It complements, rather than replaces, the outstanding services currently represented by existing service provider organizations.

Together with other partner organizations, the IEC aims to ensure that entrepreneurs receive the help they need irrespective of how they enter the service provider system or where they are at with their businesses.

OUR MISSION > Create an environment in the Greater Fort Smith Region that stimulates the entrepreneurial spirit, develops entrepreneurial skills and creates programs as well as processes that support entrepreneurs to enable the creation, stabilization and growth of companies as well as jobs.