From Maker to Market

Take your product from an idea to a business in 12 weeks!

 
From Maker to Market, FPL's micro-entrepreneurship program, is back to serve the blossoming entrepreneurship community in Northwest Arkansas. Participants will explore topics such as product prototyping, digital fabrication, business development and marketing strategies. Designed to be flexible and meet the needs of a busy schedule, From Maker to Market combines in-person workshops in the library's Center for Innovation and curated online courses through Coursera and LinkedIn Learning. Each participant who completes the required 72 hours of training will receive a $500 materials stipend to help give their business the boost that it needs. The Fall 2024 program will run August through October.

Program Details 

Skills Training & Product Prototyping

+ Thorough training on the tools in the Fabrication and Robotics Lab

+ Opportunities for in-depth prototype development

+ Training in the video and photography studios for marketing and promotional purposes

+ Use of the 3D printers, laser cutters, vacuum form mold makers, vinyl printers, heat press and more

Idea, Business & Funding Development

+ Classes and workshops from local experts and business owners

+ Free professional headshots in the Center for Innovation’s Photography Studio 

+ Training in business development topics such as writing a business plan, discovering funding options, navigating trademarks and copyrights, branding and marketing, and more

Application Requirements

Applications will be scored based on a list of criteria so please review the information below to determine if your product is a right fit for the program.

In order to be considered, you must: 

+ Be available to complete 72 hours of in-person and online content in 12 weeks (August-October)

+ Be able to make a working prototype with the equipment and resources available in the Center for Innovation   

+ Have begun writing a business plan or designing your prototype 

If you have any questions, please email centerforinnovation@faylib.org. We look forward to seeing your ideas!