Standard Lithium, Venture Center, UA on the Hunt for Next ALTA Companies
The Venture Center, Standard Lithium Ltd. and the University of Arkansas have opened applications for the 2026 Arkansas Lithium Technology Accelerator (ALTA), the nation’s first accelerator dedicated to lithium innovation and the U.S. battery supply chain.
As billion-dollar lithium projects advance in the Smackover Formation, ALTA is positioning Arkansas not just as a resource hub — but as a full-spectrum battery supply chain player, from extraction to advanced materials and manufacturing.
What’s New
For the first time, applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. Startups applying this year will be considered for Cohort Three (April) and Cohort Four (September), with flexibility to remain in the pipeline for future cycles.
“We are excited to announce the continuation of our Arkansas Lithium Technology Accelerator program for 2026 in support of our state’s emerging leadership in building an independent lithium-ion battery supply chain for the U.S.,” Venture Center Executive Director Arthur Orduña said in a news release.
“Building on the success of our first two cohorts in 2025, we look forward to bringing promising new technology companies to meet with lithium producers, state and local government and business leaders, academic institutions, and the investor community in South, Central and Northwest Arkansas” he said.
ALTA launched last year aiming to plug high-potential startups into Arkansas’ lithium ecosystem. The multi-week program connects founders with major producers, research institutions, policymakers and investors across the state. It supports early- and growth-stage companies across extraction, processing, recycling, materials science, manufacturing and enabling technologies.
How to Apply: Companies can submit applications at any time at venturecenter.co.
Previously:
ALTA Wraps 2nd Cohort (Dec. 2025)
Venture Center’s ALTA Aims to Ignite Arkansas’ Battery Future (July 2025)
Arthur Orduña on The Venture Center’s Lithium Plans (Feb. 2025)
