Accelerating energy innovation by strengthening the lithium value chain
LRIC provides no-cost consulting, funding guidance, and connections to industry experts for entrepreneurs and small businesses across the lithium value chain. Get help starting, growing, and commercializing your venture.
Enhancing national security by building a more resilient and sustainable lithium supply chain
Enhancing national security by building a more resilient and sustainable lithium supply chain
How Support Works
No-cost support for entrepreneurs and small businesses across the lithium value chain—nationwide.
Tell us what you need
Share where your business fits in the supply chain, what you’re working on, and the challenges you want to tackle.
Connect with our team
We’ll learn about your goals and help identify the expertise, resources, and connections that fit your needs.
Take your next step
Get practical guidance, expert introductions, and support exploring funding and growth opportunities.
Common Questions
What is LRIC, and who can get help?
The Lithium Regional Innovation Cluster (LRIC) is operated by Startup Junkie Consulting and funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration. We support entrepreneurs and small businesses across the lithium and battery value chain throughout the United States, with a focus on the Smackover Region in Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi.
Is LRIC business support free?
Yes. LRIC provides no-cost business consulting, commercialization support, funding guidance, and connections to subject matter experts. Funding guidance helps businesses explore resources and opportunities; it does not mean LRIC directly awards grants or investments.
How do I connect with LRIC or an expert?
Schedule a company call with Florence Nunn, LRIC Program Manager. Our team will learn about your business and help connect you with relevant expertise and resources. You can also browse the Subject Matter Experts directory; access may be required.
LRIC in the News
Explore coverage and partner announcements highlighting LRIC’s work across the lithium value chain.
Partner Press Release
Stardust Power Joins Lithium Regional Innovation Cluster to Strengthen American Lithium Supply Chain
Stardust Power announces its participation in LRIC, connecting lithium refining expertise with collaboration across the domestic supply chain.
Read Press Release ↗Media Coverage
Transformational Industries
Florence Nunn discusses LRIC’s subject matter expert network and opportunities for small businesses supporting Arkansas’s lithium industry.
Read Article ↗Upcoming Public Events
OPEN TO EVERYONE2026
Breakfast Club: Access to Capital
Kiva NWA & Fayetteville Chamber · Fayetteville · Free
November 12, 9–10 a.m. Central. Explore small-business funding options and learn about Kiva loans over breakfast.
2026
Fastmarkets Texas Lithium Market Briefing
Fastmarkets · Hilton Austin, Austin, TX · Free to attend
Hear from project developers, energy companies, and market experts on Texas and Smackover lithium development, project economics, pricing, demand, and paths to commercial production.