North Little Rock, Arkansas – The North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce is taking decisive steps to ensure the future of the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub after the North Little Rock Public Library System announced its planned closure by the end of the year. Following a unanimous vote on November 17, the library system confirmed that the Hub, which has been a cornerstone for creativity and entrepreneurship since 2014, would cease operations.
In response, the Chamber has partnered with a coalition of local leaders to form an advisory committee tasked with keeping the Innovation Hub alive and relevant. The committee’s vision extends beyond simply maintaining the Hub’s existing offerings; it seeks to broaden its programs to support hands-on maker and arts initiatives, STEM and digital literacy education, entrepreneurship training, small-business development, and workforce development opportunities.
“The 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,” said Derrell Hartwick, President & CEO of the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce. “Our commitment is to strengthen that engine by expanding pathways for innovation, workforce skills, and economic growth.”
Since its opening, the Innovation Hub has served thousands of students, creators, and entrepreneurs, offering access to specialized equipment, educational resources, and mentorship opportunities. The advisory committee has formally requested that the Library Board transfer all of the Hub’s assets—including tools, technology, and instructional materials—to the community-led relaunch effort.
“These assets were funded and built for public benefit,” Hartwick said. “Transferring them ensures uninterrupted access for the thousands of students, creators, and entrepreneurs who depend on the Hub’s resources.”
The relaunch effort is not just about preserving resources; it also involves negotiating with the building’s owner, Winrock International, to secure the Hub’s continued use as a center for innovation and learning. Hartwick emphasized the broader significance of the facility, noting that the building represents a substantial community investment with a mission that extends beyond any single organization.
“This building represents a significant community investment, and its purpose is bigger than any single organization,” Hartwick said. “Our goal is to preserve that investment and ensure this facility continues to serve the people, businesses, and students who built its legacy.”
The advisory committee is now focused on solidifying operational plans, gathering community support, and seeking funding to guarantee a smooth transition to a community-led model. Through these efforts, the Chamber hopes to maintain the Hub’s role as a central hub for learning, creativity, and economic opportunity while expanding its reach to new audiences.
Community members, partners, and local businesses interested in supporting the relaunch are encouraged to get involved through donations and volunteering. Information about how to contribute and participate is available online, allowing the public to help shape the future of a facility that has long been a catalyst for innovation in Central Arkansas.
For the North Little Rock Chamber, preserving the Innovation Hub is about more than just maintaining a space—it’s about nurturing a culture of innovation that supports local talent, drives entrepreneurship, and contributes to regional economic growth. With strong community backing and careful planning, the Hub’s legacy is poised to continue, offering future generations the tools and opportunities needed to succeed in an increasingly competitive economy.
By taking these steps, the Chamber and its advisory committee aim to ensure that the Innovation Hub remains a vibrant and inclusive space where creativity and entrepreneurship can thrive, reinforcing its critical role in the community for years to come.
