Business Startup, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Assistance and Grants for Single Mothers in Arkansas

Last updated: September 2025

Emergency help now: fast actions that keep your business and family stable

• Call 211: Dial 2‑1‑1 (or 866‑489‑6983) to get same‑day referrals for rent, utilities, food, child care, and local help across Arkansas. This is available 24/7 and multilingual. See details at Arkansas 211 — get connected, get help. (211arkansas.org, rivervalleyunitedway.org)
• Contact the SBA Arkansas District Office: For disaster loans, lenders, and counseling, call 501‑324‑7379 or visit the office at 2120 Riverfront Dr., Suite 1000, Little Rock. See the official page at SBA Arkansas District Office. (sba.gov)
• If storms or drought hit your revenue: SBA disaster loans can help. Physical disaster loans up to $2,000,000 may be available after federal declarations; Economic Injury Disaster Loans are also offered when revenues fall. Check current Arkansas declarations and deadlines on the SBA site. (sba.gov)

Quick help box: top resources with phone numbers and links

• Free one‑on‑one business coaching statewide: Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center (ASBTDC). Lead Center 501‑916‑3700; toll‑free 800‑862‑2040. Find your nearest center and book help: ASBTDC contact page. (asbtdc.org)
• Women‑focused startup support: Arkansas Women’s Business Center (Winrock International), El Dorado campus. Call 501‑280‑3088. Details: Arkansas Women’s Business Center. (winrock.org)
• No‑cost government‑contracting help: Arkansas APEX Accelerator (Little Rock, Bentonville, Newport). Start here: Arkansas APEX Accelerator services. (uaex.uada.edu)
• Certification for state contracts: Minority & Women‑Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) certification — no fee; typical processing 30–45 business days. Start at AEDC MWBE Get Certified. (arkansasedc.com)
• 0% interest microloans: Kiva Arkansas hubs offer $1,000–$15,000 at 0% with no fees. See Kiva NWA — FAQs and contact and Conductor Kiva — Central Arkansas. (kiva-nwa.org, arconductor.org)
• State small‑business capital programs: Arkansas SSBCI (credit support and venture funds) — up to $81.6 million statewide allocation through ADFA. Program summaries and contacts: ADFA SSBCI and U.S. Treasury summary. (adfa.arkansas.gov, home.treasury.gov)
• Register a new LLC: Arkansas Secretary of State online filing fee $45\ast \ast ;paper\ast \ast$50. Filing time often 3–7 business days online. Help line 888‑233‑0325 or 501‑682‑3409. Start here: SOS — For New Businesses. Fee schedule: SOS LLC fees. (sos.arkansas.gov)

Why this guide is different: what we fixed after reviewing the top search results

Most search results for “Arkansas business grants for single moms” recycle national lists, skip Arkansas‑specific programs, omit phone numbers, and quote outdated amounts. We built this hub strictly from official Arkansas, federal, and established nonprofit sources, and we included current amounts, timelines, and direct contacts you can call today. See citations throughout and our editorial standards at the end.

---

Start here: the fastest Arkansas startup path (with exact costs, timelines, and links)

• Pick your legal structure and file: For most small shops and side businesses, an LLC protects your personal assets and is simple to run. File online with the Arkansas Secretary of State for $45\ast \ast (paper\ast \ast$50). Online filings are typically processed in 3–7 business days. Use SOS — For New Businesses and the fee schedule page for LLC filings. For help, call 888‑233‑0325 or 501‑682‑3409. (sos.arkansas.gov)
• Get your EIN from IRS: Free, instant. Use IRS — Apply for an EIN. (No fee; avoid third‑party sites.)
• Register for Arkansas sales tax if you sell goods: Sales tax permit costs $50 and takes up to 2 weeks to process. Apply online via ATAP (Arkansas Taxpayer Access Point). Phone help 501‑683‑2827. See DFA — Register for Sales Tax. State sales tax rate is 6.5% (local rates vary). See DFA’s rate page. (dfa-site.ark.org, dfa.arkansas.gov)
• If you’ll hire employees: Open your employer unemployment account with the Arkansas Division of Workforce Services in Tax21, then report new hires. 2025 new‑employer UI rate is 2.0% on the first $7,000 of each employee’s wages (admin assessment 0.1%). Employer services help: 501‑682‑3798. See DWS — Employer UI Contributions and Tax21 help. (dws.arkansas.gov, workforce.arkansas.gov)
• Food business or daycare: Most food establishments need ADH plan review. Fee equals 1% of project cost (minimum $50\ast \ast ,maximum\ast \ast$500) plus a $35 annual permit once open. Call Protective Health Codes 501‑661‑2678 and see ADH Plan Review guidelines and Food Protection FAQ. (healthy.arkansas.gov)
• Optional but powerful: Get certified as an Arkansas MWBE (women‑owned) to be listed in the state directory and receive bid notices. Application is free; allow 30–45 business days with a complete submission. Start at AEDC MWBE Get Certified. (arkansasedc.com)

Table — Arkansas fast‑start steps, typical time and out‑of‑pocket cost

What to do if this doesn’t work:

If filings get stuck, call the SOS Business & Commercial Services help line 888‑233‑0325 or 501‑682‑3409; for sales tax registration issues, call 501‑683‑2827 (ATAP); for UI account issues, call 501‑682‑3798. You can also ask an ASBTDC consultant to walk through your filings at no cost — Lead Center 501‑916‑3700. (sos.arkansas.gov, dfa-site.ark.org, dws.arkansas.gov, asbtdc.org)

---

Get money for startup or growth: real, current options in Arkansas

SBA‑guaranteed loans: how much and where to start

• SBA 7(a) loans: Maximum $5,000,000; can fund working capital, equipment, real estate, and more. Use SBA Lender Match or contact the Arkansas District Office to be referred to an active lender. See SBA 7(a) loans — official overview. (sba.gov)
• SBA 504 loans: Long‑term, fixed‑rate financing for major assets; maximum project debenture typically up to $5,500,000 depending on project type. Administered by CDCs. See SBA 504 loans — official page. (sba.gov)
• SBA microloans: Up to $50,000 with typical interest 8–13% and repayment terms up to 7 years. Arkansas microlenders include nonprofit intermediaries like FORGE and Communities Unlimited. Start at SBA Microloans and filter the Microlender list. (sba.gov)
• Arkansas Capital Corporation: Active SBA lender and newly designated SBLC lender; Arkansas headquarters 501‑374‑9247 or 800‑216‑7237. See Arkansas Capital — Small Business Financing. (arcapital.com)

Community lenders (CDFIs) that work with startups and thin credit

• FORGE Community Loan Fund: Arkansas’ oldest revolving community loan fund and an SBA microlender. Serves Arkansas with microloans and technical assistance. Learn more at FORGE — Lending and FORGE About — SBA Microlender since 1998. (forgefund.org)
• Communities Unlimited: CDFI serving AR and the Mid‑South; small‑business loans for working capital, equipment, inventory; staff listed with direct phone numbers. Start at CU — Small Business Lending or the lending team page. Main line 479‑443‑2700. (communitiesu.org)
• Southern Bancorp / Southern Bancorp Community Partners: Bank + CDFI with small‑business and SBA lending. See Southern Bancorp — Business Loans and Southern Bancorp Community Partners — lending. Phone numbers for specific lenders are listed on their pages. (banksouthern.com, arkansasedc.com)
• HOPE Credit Union (Arkansas branches): Small‑business loans (often up to $250,000), including SBA Community Advantage offerings; Little Rock branch 501‑562‑1060; West Memphis 870‑735‑8398. See HOPE Small Business Loans and branch contacts. (hopecu.org)

0% interest microloans: Kiva hubs in Arkansas

• Kiva Northwest Arkansas: Borrow $1,000–$15,000 at 0% for up to 36 months with no fees. Contact the hub at 479‑264‑5856 or 479‑310‑6261; FAQs and process overview are here: Kiva NWA — FAQs and Lend & Borrow (contact). (kiva-nwa.org)
• Kiva Central Arkansas (Conductor): Conductor endorses borrowers for 0% loans up to $15,000; schedule with the program manager on the Conductor site: Conductor — Kiva 0% loans. (arconductor.org)

State capital programs you can actually use: Arkansas SSBCI (run by ADFA)

Arkansas received up to $81,621,691 under the federal State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI). Funds are deployed through guarantees, participations, and venture capital — with specific targets for underserved and very small businesses. Highlights include:

• Small Business Revolving Loan Guaranty: ADFA can guarantee 10–50% of a bank loan up to a $250,000\ast \ast guaranteeonloansto\ast \ast$500,000; fee 2% due at closing. Your bank applies; ADFA approves after bank underwriting. See Program page. (adfa.arkansas.gov)
• DBE/MWBE Loan Mobilization Fund: Guarantees up to 80% of the first $100,000\ast \ast forcertifieddisadvantaged,women‑,minority‑,orveteran‑ownedfirms;loansupto\ast \ast$500,000. See Treasury’s Arkansas SSBCI summary. (home.treasury.gov)
• Venture funds: Arkansas Venture Development Fund ($20,000,000\ast \ast )andArkansasVentureCapitalDevelopmentFund(\ast \ast$26,000,000). Contact ADFA SSBCI lead 501‑682‑5906. See ADFA SSBCI overview and Treasury summary. (adfa.arkansas.gov, home.treasury.gov)
• Technical Assistance for very small and underserved businesses: The state selected ASBTDC with $2,000,000 to help you prepare for loans and SSBCI funding (business plans, projections, and lender matchmaking). Contact ASBTDC (Lead Center 501‑916‑3700). See Treasury TA summary and ASBTDC announcement. (home.treasury.gov, asbtdc.org)

Federal and state grants that fit startups

• SBIR/STTR grants (for tech ideas): If your idea involves R&D, the federal SBIR/STTR programs can fund feasibility (Phase I) and development (Phase II). Arkansas offers a state match of up to $50,000\ast \ast forPhaseIand\ast \ast$100,000 for Phase II awards, administered by AEDC. See AEDC SBIR Matching Grant. (arkansasedc.com)
• Export grants (STEP): The World Trade Center Arkansas administers SBA’s State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) to reimburse eligible export activities (trade shows, missions, website translation). Contact 479‑418‑4800 or the STEP Director at plwatki@arwtc.org. See WTC Arkansas STEP and staff page. (arwtc.org, arwtc.org)
• Kiva: Not a grant, but 0% financing that’s fast and flexible and often paired with local matching funds (e.g., Walton Family Foundation matching in NWA). See Kiva NWA updates. (kiva.org)

Table — funding snapshot you can pursue this month

What to do if this doesn’t work:

If a bank says no, ask ASBTDC to prep you for a CDFI (FORGE, Communities Unlimited, Southern Bancorp) or a Kiva 0% loan as a bridge. You can also ask the bank to use ADFA’s Loan Guaranty to reduce their risk — some bankers simply haven’t tried it yet. ASBTDC can match you to lenders through events like “Lender Quick‑Connect.” (asbtdc.org)

---

Sell to government: use certifications and free bid help

• Get listed as an Arkansas certified woman‑owned business (MWBE): No fee; processing usually 30–45 business days. Certification opens doors with state agencies, universities, and primes. Apply at AEDC MWBE Get Certified. (arkansasedc.com)
• Go after federal contracts set aside for women: The Women‑Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contract Program reserves contracts in industries where women are underrepresented; the federal goal is at least 5% of contracting dollars for women‑owned small businesses. Certify in MySBA Certifications and get no‑cost help from the APEX Accelerator. See SBA WOSB program. (sba.gov)
• Get hands‑on help writing your first bid: Arkansas APEX Accelerator will help with SAM.gov registration, UEI, WOSB/EDWOSB, HUBZone, 8(a), finding bids, and proposal reviews — all at no cost. Contact your nearest APEX office: APEX services. (uaex.uada.edu)

Table — certifications and where they matter

What to do if this doesn’t work:

If a contracting officer says you’re “too new,” ask APEX to set up a capability briefing and pair you with a prime contractor for a subcontract. Keep building past performance with local city or school district purchases while your federal profile grows. (uaex.uada.edu)

---

Training, coaching, and mentoring: free teams you can call

• ASBTDC statewide: No‑cost one‑on‑one startup coaching, market research, and lender introductions. Lead Center 501‑916‑3700 (or 800‑862‑2040), plus regional offices in Little Rock, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Jonesboro, Magnolia, Russellville, West Memphis, Pine Bluff, Mountain Home, and Monticello. See contacts at ASBTDC — Contact. 2024 impact: $59.6 million in capital obtained; 224 businesses started; 3,688 Arkansans served. (asbtdc.org)
• Arkansas Women’s Business Center (Winrock International): Training, counseling, and access to capital for women; sessions statewide (virtual and in person). Phone 501‑280‑3088; office in El Dorado. See AWBC — program page. (winrock.org)
• Conductor (Central Arkansas): No‑cost consultations, expert network, 10X Growth Accelerator, Kiva 0% loans, and coworking/community at the Arnold Innovation Center (Conway). See Conductor — what we do. (arconductor.org)
• ARise (statewide tech startups): State‑funded support for tech and tech‑enabled companies — coaching, capital navigation, SME network. Apply at ARise Arkansas. (arisearkansas.org, arkansasedc.com)
• SCORE mentoring: Free mentors (retired and active executives). Use SCORE to practice your lender pitch and financials. Search chapters at SCORE.org or contact local mentors via SCORE Arkansas listings. (web.littlerockchamber.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

If you can’t get a quick appointment, email the SBA Arkansas District Office to request a referral or attend an ASBTDC event like “Lender Quick‑Connect” or a startup class to jump the line. (asbtdc.org, sba.gov)

---

Quick reference cheat sheet: numbers and links you’ll need often

• SBA Arkansas District Office: 501‑324‑7379 — SBA Arkansas District. (sba.gov)
• ASBTDC Lead Center: 501‑916‑3700 (toll‑free 800‑862‑2040) — ASBTDC contact. (asbtdc.org)
• APEX Accelerator (PTAC): Start at APEX services. (uaex.uada.edu)
• Kiva NWA: 479‑264‑5856 — Kiva NWA. Kiva Central Arkansas (Conductor): Conductor Kiva. (kiva-nwa.org, arconductor.org)
• ADFA SSBCI / loan guarantees: 501‑682‑5906 — ADFA SSBCI overview. (adfa.arkansas.gov)
• SOS Business Filings: 888‑233‑0325 / 501‑682‑3409 — SOS — For New Businesses. (sos.arkansas.gov)
• DFA Sales Tax Permit: 501‑683‑2827 — Register for Sales Tax. (dfa-site.ark.org)
• DWS Employer UI: 501‑682‑3798 — Employer UI Contributions. (dws.arkansas.gov)
• MWBE Certification: 501‑682‑7782 — AEDC MWBE Get Certified. (arkansasedc.com)

---

Real dollars you can use for everyday life while starting up: keep the lights on

• SNAP (food help): For FY2025, maximum monthly SNAP for a household of four in the 48 states (includes Arkansas) is $975\ast \ast ;foroneperson\ast \ast$292. Income and deductions apply; benefits adjust Oct. 1 each year. See USDA’s official FY2025 COLA. Apply through DHS. (fns.usda.gov)
• TEA cash assistance (Arkansas TANF): Maximum monthly TEA cash payment is $81\ast \ast (familyof1),\ast \ast$162 (2), $204\ast \ast (3),\ast \ast$247 (4), and so on. State time limit changed to 12 months effective April 1, 2024 (Work Pays time limit also 12 months). See Arkansas Administrative Code and DHS notice. Apply via DHS county office or Access Arkansas. (casetext.com, humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Child care subsidies: Arkansas pays a portion of licensed care; copays vary by county, provider rate, and family size. Check current rates and apply through the Division of Child Care & Early Childhood Education (DCCECE) on DHS; amounts change and are set by provider type and age. Use DHS’s child care pages for current tables.
• 211: Call 2‑1‑1 (or 866‑489‑6983) for rent, utilities, diapers, transportation, and vetted local aid while your business ramps up. (211arkansas.org, rivervalleyunitedway.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

If benefits are delayed, ask 211 for local emergency funds and food pantry options, and tell your ASBTDC coach so they can build a lean cash‑flow plan and suggest low‑cost pivots (preorders, deposits, pop‑ups, or Kiva).

---

Local organizations, churches, and nonprofits: practical support that complements your startup

• Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund (ASPSF): Flexible scholarships up to $1,600 per semester for eligible single parents (use for gas, childcare, groceries while in school). See deadlines and county coverage at ASPSF Apply Now. (aspsf.org, neareport.com)
• Women’s Foundation of Arkansas (WFA): Programs focused on women’s economic security and asset building; watch for periodic grant opportunities and mentorship. See WFA Grants & Initiatives. (womensfoundationarkansas.org)
• Chambers and entrepreneur groups: Check Conductor and local chambers (Little Rock, Northwest Arkansas) for pitch nights, vendor fairs, and small business clinics that can lead directly to customers and micro‑funding. (conwaychamber.org)

---

Application checklist: documents most lenders and programs will ask for

• Government‑issued photo ID: Driver’s license or passport.
• Proof of Arkansas residence: Utility bill or lease.
• Business plan or one‑page lean plan: Revenue model, pricing, first‑year sales goals. ASBTDC has templates.
• 12‑month cash‑flow projection: Include startup purchases and your own pay.
• Bank statements: Last 3–6 months (personal and business if you have it).
• Tax returns: Last 2 years (personal; business if available).
• Entity documents: LLC Certificate, Operating Agreement, EIN letter.
• Collateral list: Equipment or vehicle titles if applicable.
• For Kiva: Three short paragraphs (your story, business story, how you’ll use the loan) and a horizontal photo; expect a private fundraising phase before public posting. (kiva-nwa.org)

---

Common mistakes to avoid: save time and money

• Skipping registration: Selling without a sales tax permit can lead to penalties. The permit is $50 and typically approved within 2 weeks. (dfa-site.ark.org)
• Applying for “free money” from random sites: Stick to SBA, DHS, AEDC, ADFA, WTC Arkansas, and established nonprofits to avoid scams.
• Not using guarantees: If a bank declines, ask them to consider ADFA’s guarantee (up to 50%; 2% fee) instead of walking away. (adfa.arkansas.gov)
• Under‑pricing: Arkansas sales tax averages rise with local add‑ons; the state rate is 6.5% plus local. Verify local rates before you set prices. (dfa.arkansas.gov)
• Waiting for the “perfect” plan: ASBTDC and AWBC will iterate with you rapidly at no cost — book time early. (asbtdc.org, winrock.org)

---

Diverse Communities: tailored tips and doors to knock on

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask ASBTDC or AWBC for lenders comfortable with chosen‑name documentation and inclusive collateral practices; Kiva’s character‑based model and APEX’s procurement counselors are strong allies. Use Kiva hubs for 0% loans if banks hesitate. (kiva-nwa.org, uaex.uada.edu)
• Single Mothers with Disabilities or Disabled Children: Schedule remote counseling with ASBTDC; many lenders accept e‑sign and virtual meetings. If your child care or medical schedule is tight, apply for Kiva and CDFI options that judge “capacity” realistically. See Communities Unlimited’s inclusive lending page. (communitiesu.org)
• Veteran single mothers: Consider WOSB and also Service‑Disabled Veteran‑Owned Small Business certification if applicable; APEX can help with both. Pair contracting goals with SBA 7(a) Working Capital Pilot if you need a line for fulfilling contracts. (sba.gov)
• Immigrant/Refugee Single Moms: MWBE accepts U.S. citizens and service‑disabled veterans and women; for non‑citizen entrepreneurs, work with Kiva, CDFIs, and AWBC to structure financing while your status evolves. Check each program’s citizenship requirements; WOSB requires U.S. citizenship. (sba.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Combine MWBE and federal Indian‑owned certifications where eligible; APEX can guide you on registrations and set‑asides.
• Rural single moms with limited access: CU and FORGE specialize in rural lending; ASBTDC does virtual counseling statewide; Kiva can be completed by phone with hub assistance. (communitiesu.org, forgefund.org)
• Single fathers: All programs here are inclusive regardless of gender; MWBE supports women‑owned, but fathers can access ASBTDC, SBA loans, CDFIs, and Kiva equally.
• Language access: ASBTDC notes language assistance is available for limited English proficient individuals; WBC offers virtual options; CU lists Spanish support. Ask for interpreters when booking. (asbtdc.org, communitiesu.org)

---

Regional resources and contacts

• SBA Arkansas District Office: 501‑324‑7379, 2120 Riverfront Dr., Suite 1000, Little Rock — statewide coverage. SBA Arkansas District. (sba.gov)
• ASBTDC regional centers: Little Rock 501‑916‑3700; Fayetteville 479‑575‑5148; Fort Smith 479‑424‑5146; Jonesboro 870‑972‑3517; Magnolia 870‑235‑5033; Russellville 479‑356‑2067; West Memphis 870‑733‑6805; and more listed on the contact page. ASBTDC — Contact. (asbtdc.org)
• APEX Accelerator: Offices in Little Rock, Bentonville, and Newport; start here to connect: APEX services. (uaex.uada.edu)
• Kiva hubs: NWA 479‑264‑5856; Central Arkansas via Conductor — see pages above. (kiva-nwa.org, arconductor.org)

---

Reality checks, timelines, and tips

• Bank approval timeline: Expect 2–6 weeks for SBA 7(a) underwriting with a prepared package; microloans and Kiva are often faster (2–30 days depending on fundraising). Official SBA microloan terms allow up to 7 years, typical interest 8–13%. (sba.gov)
• State filings: SOS lists online processing 3–7 business days for new entities; mailed filings take longer. (sos.arkansas.gov)
• Sales tax: State rate 6.5%; many counties add local tax. Price with margin for the local rate where you sell. (dfa.arkansas.gov)
• UI costs for new employers: In 2025, 2.0% on first $7,000 wages per employee (plus 0.1% admin assessment). (dws.arkansas.gov)

---

Real‑world example: stacking tools to launch

• Example: A single mom in Conway launches a home bakery that becomes a retail kiosk. She forms an LLC online ($45\ast \ast ),registersforsalestax(\ast \ast$50), completes ADH retail food plan review (1% of project cost, $50–$500), and opens with a $7,500\ast \ast Kivaloanat\ast \ast 0$100,000 using ADFA’s Loan Guaranty (2% fee) to expand into a small storefront. She certifies as MWBE (free; 30–45 business days) and the APEX Accelerator helps her win a university catering purchase order, giving her reliable monthly revenue. (sos.arkansas.gov, dfa-site.ark.org, healthy.arkansas.gov, arconductor.org, adfa.arkansas.gov, arkansasedc.com, uaex.uada.edu)

---

Frequently asked questions — Arkansas‑specific, with sources

• Where do I find Arkansas lenders active with SBA right now: Start with the SBA Arkansas District Office or the SBA Lender Match tool. The District Office can point you to lenders currently funding in your county. Phone 501‑324‑7379. (sba.gov)
• How fast is Arkansas MWBE certification: Typically 30–45 business days after a complete application. There’s no fee. Apply at AEDC — Get Certified. (arkansasedc.com)
• What’s the max on SBA microloans and who offers them here: Up to $50,000 with up to 7 years to repay; intermediaries set rates and terms. Arkansas nonprofits like FORGE and Communities Unlimited participate; see the SBA microlender list. (sba.gov)
• Is there any true grant for starting a non‑tech business: Direct startup grants are rare. Consider Kiva ($1,000–$15,000 at 0%), CDFI loans, and pitch competitions. Tech firms should explore SBIR and the Arkansas SBIR Match (up to $50,000/$100,000). (kiva-nwa.org, arkansasedc.com)
• How much is Arkansas sales tax and how do I register: State rate 6.5% (local rates vary); sales tax permit is $50 via ATAP and processes in up to 2 weeks. Help desk 501‑683‑2827. (dfa.arkansas.gov, dfa-site.ark.org)
• What help is there if I’m denied a bank loan: Ask your banker to consider ADFA’s Small Business Loan Guaranty (up to 50% guarantee; 2% fee). Or go to a CDFI (FORGE, Communities Unlimited), or Kiva (0%). ASBTDC can prep you for each option. (adfa.arkansas.gov, forgefund.org, communitiesu.org, arconductor.org)
• Where can I learn government contracting without the jargon: Arkansas APEX Accelerator provides free counseling on SAM.gov, WOSB, HUBZone, 8(a), and bid reviews. (uaex.uada.edu)
• How do I get export help and travel funding: World Trade Center Arkansas administers SBA’s STEP grants; call 479‑418‑4800 to discuss eligibility. (arwtc.org)
• What if storms or drought hurt my sales: SBA disaster loans may be available by county and incident; see current Arkansas declarations and deadlines on SBA’s disaster news pages. (sba.gov)
• Any trusted place to get a quick, free consult: ASBTDC statewide (501‑916‑3700) and AWBC (501‑280‑3088) both provide no‑cost, confidential counseling. (asbtdc.org, winrock.org)

---

If you sell food or open a daycare: avoid costly rework

• Food establishments: ADH requires plan review before opening or remodeling. Plan review fee is 1% of project cost ($50\ast \ast minimum,\ast \ast$500 maximum). Annual permit $35. Call Protective Health Codes 501‑661‑2678 early; submit complete packets to avoid delays. (healthy.arkansas.gov)
• Timeline tip: ADH allots up to 30 days to review complete plans; incomplete packets stall your project. (healthy.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

If your inspection fails, ask ADH which specific items failed, fix only those, and schedule a re‑inspection. ASBTDC can review your floor plan and workflow before you purchase equipment.

---

Quick tables — pricing, taxes, and employer basics

Table — taxes and permits at a glance

Table — where to get free help, by goal

Table — quick lender directory (mission lenders)

---

What to do when cash is tight mid‑launch: realistic plan B options

• Switch to the smallest viable start: Pop‑ups, preorders, and service bundles generate early cash with less overhead. Kiva 0% loans can fund small assets without interest. (kiva-nwa.org)
• Use SSBCI support: Ask your bank or CDFI to check whether a state guarantee or participation makes your loan approvable (ADFA programs). (adfa.arkansas.gov)
• Mix benefits carefully: If you rely on SNAP or TEA, tell your coach. SNAP maximums for FY2025 are public; plan your owner draw so you don’t lose help too soon. (fns.usda.gov)

---

Quick step‑by‑step: first 30 days to get legit and funded

• Week 1: File LLC ($45\ast \ast online).GetEIN(\ast \ast$0). Start sales tax permit ($50). Book ASBTDC session. (sos.arkansas.gov, dfa-site.ark.org)
• Week 2: Open business bank account, draft a one‑page plan and 12‑month cash‑flow. If food‑related, call ADH and submit plan review (fee $50–$500). (healthy.arkansas.gov)
• Week 3: If you need $1,000–$15,000, start Kiva with your hub. If you need more, meet a CDFI (FORGE/CU) and your bank; ask about ADFA guarantees. (kiva-nwa.org, forgefund.org, adfa.arkansas.gov)
• Week 4: If you plan to sell to agencies, submit MWBE certification (free). Book APEX to plan your first small bid. (arkansasedc.com, uaex.uada.edu)

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Arkansas Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified: September 2025, next review: April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer: read this before you apply anywhere

• Program details change: Grant amounts, deadlines, and eligibility can change without notice. Always click through to the official source and confirm before applying or spending money.
• Security: Avoid sharing Social Security numbers, bank logins, or fees with unofficial sites. Use only .gov pages and established nonprofits linked above.
• No legal advice: This guide is for general information; talk to an attorney or tax professional for specific legal or tax advice.

---

Sources used and verified August–September 2025

• SBA Arkansas District Office contacts and hours; disaster notices; 7(a), 504, microloan program pages. (sba.gov)
• ASBTDC statewide contacts and 2024 outcomes. (asbtdc.org)
• AEDC MWBE certification details and timelines; SBIR matching grants; ARise program launch. (arkansasedc.com)
• ADFA SSBCI allocations and loan guarantee terms; U.S. Treasury Arkansas capital program summary. (adfa.arkansas.gov, home.treasury.gov)
• DFA sales tax permit fee and timelines; state sales tax rate. (dfa-site.ark.org)
• DWS employer UI 2025 rates and wage base. (dws.arkansas.gov)
• ADH plan review fee and permit info. (healthy.arkansas.gov)
• Kiva Arkansas hubs amounts and contacts; Conductor Kiva. (kiva-nwa.org, arconductor.org)
• CDFIs: FORGE and Communities Unlimited programs. (forgefund.org, communitiesu.org)
• HOPE Credit Union small‑business lending. (hopecu.org)
• USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)
• Arkansas TEA/Work Pays program amounts and time limits. (casetext.com, humanservices.arkansas.gov)

---

What to do if any link breaks:

Email info@asinglemother.org with the broken link and the section title. We’ll verify and fix within 48 hours per our editorial policy.

---

🏛️More Arkansas Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Arkansas

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery