Small student-owned businesses are making waves on the University of Arkansas campus, led by ambitious young entrepreneurs who are turning their ideas into reality.
From vintage resale to a personal postcard brand, students on the University of Arkansas’s campus are working to connect with people through many different products and services. Working while taking classes can be quite taxing, but the community and life lessons will always be worth it. Here are some young entrepreneurs that are positively influencing our community.
Lucky Duck (@luckyduck.shop_) by Katy Ball
Starting in 2019, the upcycled hand stitched clothing and second hand jewelry company spawned from high school boredom, and turned into a love for making products and trying new things. Since coming to college, business names/products have grown and changed. Lucky Duck pieces have taken off at the University of Arkansas, being sold at Sustainable Fashion Club pop ups as well as on Instagram. Katy is an officer for the SFC and is the creative mind behind their social media marketing.
Katy’s Advice for aspiring Entrepreneurs:
“Don’t be afraid of change. My business has grown with me and seen many changes through the name, products, and style. I’ve learned that growth comes with positive change.”
Emma Nelson Photography (@emmanelsonphotos) by Emma Nelson
Emma started her photography and branding services in 2022. She has connected with new people, businesses, and creatives of all ages, taking their photos and bringing their visions to life. She has worked with many creative entrepreneurs who have built businesses based on deep passion and vision. She makes it her personal responsibility to tell unique stories about the people she captures.
Emma’s Advice for aspiring Entrepreneurs:
“I’ve learned how people always have a story to tell, whether they think they do or not. Stories that deserve to be captured and told and shared.”
Layton’s Videography (@Laytonsedits)
Layton began his video editing business in early 2025. He connects with creative minded individuals that push him to excel.
Layton’s Advice for aspiring Entrepreneurs:
“Don’t fear rejection.”
Angelle Gandy photography (@Angellegandyphoto)
Angelle started booking photography sessions around 3 years ago. Her love for photography and creating memories that last a lifetime sparked a desire to make it affordable for all. Angelle loves meeting seniors for the first time when taking their photos and then keeping up with their journeys. “I’ve met a lot of college seniors who are about to start their real “adult life” and talk to them about the excitement and nervousness for the next season and also be a part of getting them excited for that in the end of an era.” Angelle says.
Angelle’s Advice for aspiring Entrepreneurs:
“Keep your passion and love for your hobby alive. If your heart isn’t into it and it’s only about a consumer and producer relationship, then it won’t be as successful or as enjoyable.”
Campbell Goldsmith Photo & Films (@campbellgoldsmithphotofilms)
Campbell began her photography and film video services about a year ago out of her love for people. She has been able to provide the thoughtfulness that people are looking for in a photography session, not just a business transaction.
Campbell’s Advice for aspiring Entrepreneurs:
“Meet people where they are! Nothing is black and white, seek to serve people as individuals and not put people in a box.”
Paints by Jaden (@byjaden_)
Banners, 21st birthday signs, hand painted champagne bottles, and more. Jaden started her business in the fall of 2024, but started focusing more on her business in 2025. She loves painting and being creative, but it wasn’t until she started painting banners for her friends that she really realized she wanted to turn her hobby into a business. Although it’s hard balancing a business and being a student, creating pieces for others’ events and celebrations gives her hobby a redefined purpose. She loves receiving pictures of clients and their friends in front of their banners or wearing their signs on their 21st birthday.
Jaden’s Advice for aspiring Entrepreneurs:
“You are capable of creating beautiful things.”
Beck Bruns Photo (@beckbrunsphoto)
A love for photography and hearing stranger’s stories is what began Beck’s photo services back in the fall of 2022. The role has connected him to so many inspiring and encouraging photographers across Oklahoma, Arkansas, and beyond.
Beck’s Advice for aspiring Entrepreneurs:
“Success and growth comes from staying outside of your comfort zone! Learning is constant.”
Surf & Saddle (@surf.n.saddle) by Ella Plumlee
Coastal and country aesthetics tied in with pearls & western charms. Started in April of 2025, an entrepreneurship program shed light on Ella’s love for creating concepts for people to enjoy. She has met people through pitch competitions or simply compliments on her jewelry. The business has connected many creative minds and people who push Ella and her business to its full potential. She has had people from as far as Hawaii order her products as well as mentions from influencers like Brookie Yancey. Her products can be found on her website:
Ella’s Advice for aspiring Entrepreneurs:
“There is never an end to your potential. Everything is within reach and there is always something to be aiming for- even if you have accomplished your initial goals. You can make anything you want out of a career if you put in the work.”
If you have been waiting for a sign to start the side gig you have always dreamed of, this is it. There is no better time to launch a business than during your college years. You have access to abundant mentors and resources ready to support your journey. Some valuable resources include fellow student business owners, who offer opportunities to network with ambitious peers and learn from their experiences. The University of Arkansas Office of Entrepreneurship & Innovation provides support for entrepreneurs both before and after generating revenue. Additionally, 1 Million Cups is a free program with over 100 communities across the country that offers weekly meetings of experienced entrepreneurs who share ideas and insights. With a community in Bentonville, 1 Million Cups allows you to present your ideas to an inclusive, welcoming audience. Taking advantage of these resources can help set you on the path to success.
