Skip to main content
Co-Create Innovation Hub

Free · For our community

A practical next step for your business.

Connect with volunteer experts for business planning, financing preparation, banking, and real estate guidance in Russellville and the Arkansas River Valley. Open to members and the wider community.

1. Choose your topic

Bring one focused question and a short overview of your business.

2. Request a session

Send your name, email, and question. Hub staff will coordinate the details with you.

3. Talk with an expert

Staff will confirm the time, duration, and location with you before your session.

Meet the experts

Chris Abington

Chris Abington

Real estate and leasing · River Valley Realty

Chris is a broker with River Valley Realty in Russellville. His real estate work includes commercial properties and commercial leasing. Request a free session to discuss your business property questions; Hub staff will coordinate the details.

  • Commercial real estate
  • Commercial leasing

Request a free session. Hub staff will coordinate a time with you and the expert.

James (Jim) Guhl

James (Jim) Guhl

Small business development · Arkansas Tech University

Jim directs the small business development center at Arkansas Tech University. He helps entrepreneurs with business plans, financial projections, loan proposals, operations, and evaluating business opportunities.

  • Business planning
  • Financing preparation
  • Operations

Request a free session. Hub staff will coordinate a time with you and the expert.

First Security Bank

First Security Bank

Business banking and financing

The First Security Bank team offers guidance on business banking, financing, and loan management. Participating representatives include Jared Wood, Market President, and Justin Price, Senior Vice President. Staff will coordinate with an assigned representative; both bankers do not necessarily attend.

  • SBA loans
  • Commercial loans
  • Business banking

Request a free session. Hub staff will coordinate a time with you and the expert.

What you can ask

  • What should my business plan include?
  • How can I prepare to discuss financing?
  • Which business banking options should I compare?

Before your session

Check your confirmation for the location; not every session is at the Hub. Prepare your questions and contact us if you need to cancel so we can respect the volunteer’s time.

Cancel, request a change, or ask a question

Share your expertise

Volunteers typically offer one or two hours each month in a coordinated block.

Talk with our team