This month, the ASBTDC’s Arkansas Business Navigator project welcomed its first eFellow, Javier Hernandez.
The eFellow program was created to provide select University of Arkansas System students with hands-on entrepreneurial development experience, connecting the classroom to the community.
“ASBTDC is excited about our new eFellow program and very pleased to welcome Javier to our team,” said State Director Laura Fine. “Entrepreneurship plays an important role in our economy. Our eFellows will directly participate and contribute to our work helping entrepreneurs in all communities to start, grow, and keep pace with the ever-changing marketplace.”
Hernandez is pursuing a Master’s of Public Service degree from the UA Clinton School of Public Service. He earned a B.S. in Environmental Science and Political Science from the University of Central Arkansas.
“Growing up in Arkansas, I have been able to see the positive impact community and economic development can have on residents of our state,” Hernandez said. “Working with ABN ties together my interests in public service and development together in a way that brings tangible results and creates a positive impact on the lives of Arkansas residents.”
The Arkansas Business Navigator program assists entrepreneurs throughout the state, with a focus on underserved communities. Funded in part through a grant from the Small Business Administration, ABN helps clients secure access to capital, develop business and marketing plans, and overcome systemic barriers through outreach, engagement, and training.
In a months-long process, the ABN team sought out eFellows candidates with outstanding academic backgrounds and passion for entrepreneurship, marketing, and public service. Hernandez officially began his role on Aug. 8.
“(Javier) is a young professional who will bring fresh ideas to the program,” ABN Project Manager Diego Morales Ibarra said.
As an eFellow, Hernandez spends 20 hours per week assisting with business consulting, event planning, and community outreach in English and Spanish.
“Creating connections across the state and supporting local businesses and their owners is my main goal in this position,” Hernandez said. “I will help to develop new ideas and strong enterprises throughout Arkansas and bring individuals who are unfamiliar with business ownership into the conversation.”
The eFellows program is for juniors, seniors, or graduate students at UA System schools. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. To apply, complete the eFellow interest form. Students may continue as eFellows as long as they meet program criteria.
