Arkansas Food Innovation Center at Market Center of the Ozarks

02/21/2026

Join us at the Black Owned Business Expo at the Fayetteville Town Center and come see the incredible talent, innovation, and resilience in our community.

Be sure to stop by and visit us at AFIC@MCO to learn how we support small businesses with access to affordable commercial kitchens, technical assistance, and contract processing support. When entrepreneurs have the right tools and guidance, they thrive.

We are proud to stand alongside founders who are building bold, sustainable businesses right here in Northwest Arkansas.

Come say hello and let’s talk about how we can support your growth.

02/17/2026

AFIC@MCO will be at the 2026 Black-Owned NWA Business Expo, and we’d love to meet you. Visit our table to learn how we help farmers and food entrepreneurs grow their businesses through commercial kitchen space, contract processing, and technical assistance.
We’ll also have products on display that we’ve produced for local farmers and food businesses—real examples of how value-added processing can open new opportunities.
Come see what’s possible and find out how we can support your idea or operation.

02/05/2026

A great opportunity to join an organization doing so much valuable work in NWA!

We’re Hiring! Marketing Intern (Part-Time, Hybrid)

Do you have a passion for supporting local farmers and helping the community understand our local food system? We’re excited to welcome a Marketing Intern to our team starting in March!

This part-time, hybrid role includes both remote and in-person work.
We’re flexible; your responsibilities can be adjusted based on your availability and any requirements for your degree plan or coursework.

What You’ll Do:
- Create engaging social media content that shares the story of our work and highlights our farmers
- Assist in developing and implementing a cohesive marketing strategy
- Support website updates and help maintain digital media
- Contribute to outreach efforts that connect the community to our mission

If you’re creative, community-minded, and eager to gain hands-on experience in food systems and marketing, please email your resume to [email protected]

01/30/2026

Ever wondered how what you grow could become a value-added product?
Join us for Farmers’ Focus: Value-Added Products Overview on March 2 at AFIC@MCO. This interactive session is designed for farmers who want to explore product ideas, packaging basics, and real-world paths from farm to market.

9 AM – 1 PM
AFIC@MCO: 821 E Eamma, Springdale
Light lunch provided

Reserve your seat!

Registration Link in Comments

01/28/2026

Saturday and Sunday brought snow that kept most folks indoors, but not Karen. As a farmer, she was out doing the work that doesn’t pause for weather. Moments like this remind us of the resilience and dedication behind every meal on our tables. Our farmers show up every day, and we’re committed to showing up for them.

01/27/2026

Unlock the numbers that drive real business performance!

Join next week—online or at the Arnold Innovation Center in Conway—for Managing by the Numbers with Jeff Standridge.

Learn how to identify, track, and use the key metrics behind cash flow, profitability, growth, assets, and people so you can make decisions with clarity and confidence.

RSVP here: https://luma.com/x9soqt3h

01/15/2026

Farm-to-table starts here! Behind the scenes at Market Center of the Ozarks—where local food meets opportunity.

Check out the video here 👉https://www.nwahomepage.com/knwa-today/field-trip-friday-a-true-farm-to-table-opportunity-for-small-businesses/

01/07/2026

Calling all early‑stage food entrepreneurs!

Join us Monday, Jan 19 for a supportive, step-by-step workshop to help you form and structure your food business with confidence.

We’re honored to host Peter Norman from the University of Arkansas, who will guide you through business structures, registration, legal basics, and more — plus hands‑on help to begin the filing process right there during the session.

Time: 9 AM–2 PM
Location: AFIC@MCO (821 E Emma Ave. Springdale, AR 72764)
Free to attend (late registration after Jan 10: +$10)

Let’s build strong food businesses together.

12/08/2025

Another amazing food entrepreneur is officially permitted to cater life’s special moments!

We’re thrilled to celebrate Karen, now officially approved by the Arkansas Department of Health to launch her catering and event business: Viva La Soil!

At AFIC@MCO, we’re proud to walk alongside passionate entrepreneurs—providing guidance, resources, and support to turn visions into thriving realities.

Learn more: https://aficmco.uada.edu/

Ready to grow your food venture?
Connect with AFIC@MCO and let’s make it happen together!

12/05/2025

Meet Lizette Franco, founder of El Trompo Loco and proud graduate of our AFIC@MCO cohort!

Her dedication to authentic flavors and building community shines through every dish. We’re thrilled to see her story featured in CanvasRebel, where she shares her passion and entrepreneurial journey.

Read her inspiring interview here: canvasrebel.com/meet-lizette-franco

12/03/2025

Register for The NWA Local Food Systems Conference!

Connect with farmers, food innovators, and community leaders shaping the future of local food in Northwest Arkansas.
Date: Dec.10, 2025
Location: The Jones Center in Springdale, AR

After the sessions, join us for Happy Hour at the Arkansas Food Innovation Center at the Market of the Ozarks (AFIC@MCO)!

Enjoy great conversations, local flavors, and networking opportunities! It’s all included with your ticket!

Register now:
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/nwa-local-food-systems-conference-2

11/24/2025

Ready, Set, File: Close Your 2025 Books & Prep for 2026 Tax Season

When: Monday, Dec 1 | 9 AM – 12 PM
Where: AFIC@MCO, 821 E. Emma Ave, Springdale
Cost: $25 | Only 15 spots!

Get your business finances in order before the year ends!
Learn from:
Bridget Marrs, founder of Behind-The-Scenes Consulting—bringing her Walmart experience and love for process, people & numbers.
Dee Herrold, CPA CGMA, with 30 years of tax expertise across industries from farms to nonprofits.

✅ Year-end checklist
✅ Tax prep & deductions
✅ Book reconciliation
✅ Better systems for 2026

🔗 Register by Nov 28:
uada.formstack.com/forms/wrap_up_get_ahead

Lets plan ahead for 2026!