Arkansas has a diverse state economy, with aircraft manufacturing, poultry and cotton farming, steel production, rice growing, tourism and the service industry all active drivers of commerce in the state. As the former stomping ground of a diverse group of iconic American figures, from Johnny Cash to Sam Walton to Bill Clinton, Arkansas conjures a unique image among Southern states and also provides a wide array of opportunities for small businesses in any sector to thrive. In this research brief, we’ll take a look at some of the state grant and financing options available to entrepreneurs, as well as other programs that provide support for business owners in Arkansas.