After the library board announced the Innovation Hub would close by 2026, a group of local leaders led by the Chamber of Commerce stepped in to keep it running.<\/p>\n
NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. \u2014 The North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce has partnered with a group of local leaders to form an advisory committee to keep the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub in operation.<\/p>\n
This comes after the North Little Rock Public Library System announced that the Innovation Hub would be closing by the end of the year, following a unanimous vote on November 17.<\/p>\n
Since opening in 2014, the Innovation Hub has played a major role in supporting creativity, entrepreneurs, and driving economic development throughout the region.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Now, the advisory committee plans to preserve the Hub\u2019s core strengths while also expanding hands-on maker and arts programs, STEM and digital literacy initiatives, entrepreneurship and small-business development support, and workforce development.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Innovation Hub has long been an engine for talent development and creative entrepreneurship in Central Arkansas, which will connect perfectly with the North Little Rock Chamber business community,\u201d said Derrell Hartwick, President & CEO of the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce. \u201cOur commitment is to strengthen that engine by expanding pathways for innovation, workforce skills, and economic growth.\u201d<\/p>\n
Additionally, the committee has formally requested that the Library Board transfer all equipment, tools, and educational resources to the community-led relaunch effort.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese assets were funded and built for public benefit,\u201d Hartwick said. \u201cTransferring them ensures uninterrupted access for the thousands of students, creators, and entrepreneurs who depend on the Hub\u2019s resources.\u201d<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, the committee has spoken with Winrock International, the building\u2019s owner, to ensure that the Innovation Hub continues to serve its intended purpose.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis building represents a significant community investment, and its purpose is bigger than any single organization,\u201d Hartwick said. \u201cOur goal is to preserve that investment and ensure this facility continues to serve the people, businesses, and students who built its legacy.\u201d<\/p>\n