Fuse is partnering with the Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation to support dual-use scale-stage startups focused on supply chain solutions
BENTONVILLE, Ark., March 11, 2026 – Fuse Accelerator is driving an exciting new era of innovation in Arkansas, announcing today a strategic partnership with the Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation to establish the region as a hub for dual-use technology. With the Chamber’s deep regional influence and Fuse’s global commercial and defense network, the collaboration is set to enhance Arkansas’s position as a premier hub for dual-use technology.
“We’re incredibly eager to engage with the Arkansas community in a fresh way,” said Tom Douglass, Fuse Co-Founder and Managing Partner. “With its unique strengths in supply chain, rare earth minerals, and aerospace, this region is a natural frontier for dual-use startups solving critical challenges.”
This strategic partnership, supported by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) and additional funding from the Walton Family Foundation, focuses on scale-stage startups across areas including applied artificial intelligence, contested logistics technologies, rare earth mineral supply chains, and other commercial supply chain opportunities.
The Chamber brings deep-rooted relationships, regional influence, and a comprehensive understanding of the business landscape to catalyze innovation and drive sustainable economic growth.
“This partnership is an exciting step in positioning Northwest Arkansas — and Arkansas more broadly — as a hub for dual-use innovation,” said Martine Pollard, President of the Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation. “By connecting Fuse’s global network with our region’s strengths in supply chain, logistics, and emerging technology, we’re creating new opportunities for scale-stage startups while continuing to strengthen the long-term economic future of our region.”
Through Fuse, founders gain direct access to commercial enterprises, government buyers, defense primes, and leading dual-use investors, along with strategic guidance from operators who have navigated dual-use markets. The program provides expertise on commercial enterprise sales, defense procurement, and the unique challenges of serving both markets simultaneously.
With deep roots in the Arkansas innovation ecosystem, Douglass and Fuse co-founder Darian Harris are thrilled for the opportunity to bring their dual-use platform to the state. “We can’t wait to ‘Light the Fuse’ here in Northwest Arkansas!”
Applications for the upcoming Arkansas cohort are now being accepted at: Fuse 2026 Summer Dual-Use Supply Chain Application.
About Fuse Accelerator
Fuse is the leading dual-use innovation platform for startups, corporate partners, government stakeholders and investors. Through a suite of specialized programs and a global network of mission-aligned founders and partners, Fuse provides scale-stage startups with the strategic GTM resources, capital, and connectivity to accelerate their impact. Driven by a “Founders Helping Founders” philosophy, Fuse positions innovative startups to scale simultaneously across both commercial enterprise and government markets. Learn more at https://www.fuseaccelerator.com/.
About the Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation
The Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation advances initiatives and programs that strengthen the local economy and enhance quality of place across the Bentonville area. Supporting the Chamber’s mission to grow economic prosperity for all, the Foundation brings people, businesses, and community partners together to remove barriers, spark innovation, and drive meaningful progress. Through its work, the Foundation helps cultivate a vibrant business environment and ensure Bentonville remains an exceptional place to live, work, and play.
Media Contact:
Melissa Silvia
Communications, Fuse Accelerator
Sarah Henderson
Vice President, Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce