
From high-tech drone applications to clever solutions for everyday problems, innovation is thriving across rural Oklahoma, thanks in part to the Oklahoma Farm Bureau’s (OKFB) Rural and Ag Business Accelerators program. The organization recently celebrated the graduation of its latest cohort, showcasing a diverse range of new companies poised to make an impact.
Amarie Bartel, Rural Economic Development Coordinator at OKFB, has a front-row seat to this wave of creativity and is continually impressed by the ingenuity she encounters.
“I am constantly blown away by the things that rural Oklahomans come up with,” Bartel told Farm Director KC Sheperd. “So rural Oklahomans, do not count yourself out. You are the original innovators.”
What is an Accelerator?
While the term “business accelerator” might sound like corporate jargon, Bartel explained it’s a straightforward concept designed to fast-track success for startups.
“When I say accelerator, I mean a group… of innovation founders who are going through educational curriculum over a period of time to help the business reach profitability more efficiently,” she said.
The six-month OKFB program is designed specifically for entrepreneurs in communities of 50,000 people or less. It uses a hybrid model, with about 75% of the curriculum delivered virtually, allowing founders to remain in their home communities. The remaining 25% involves crucial in-person interaction, including boot camps and meetings with mentors.
The intensive process focuses on experiential learning and customer discovery to build a strong business foundation. The payoff is significant. “One of our graduates said that they think by dedicating the six months to this program… it saved them about two years of time that they would have to do on their own,” Bartel shared.
A Glimpse at the Graduates
The latest class of nine founders highlights the program’s impressive range. Bartel spotlighted several companies, including:

- 4AG Manufacturing: Based in Elk City, this company has developed a suite of products for the regenerative agriculture space, including an improved gauge wheel, a closing wheel, and the “Catch All,” a device to contain pesky hay bale net wrap.

- Stinger Jugheads: An evolutionary leap for a traditional fishing technique, this company has invented numerous improvements for jug fishing, a popular pastime in rural Oklahoma.

- Sober Sally’s: A practical rideshare app with a unique twist. It provides a ride for both you and your car, eliminating the need to retrieve your vehicle the next day.
“They’re coming up with really good business solutions for their communities,” Bartel affirmed. “I am so encouraged by where we are going as a state.”
Who is an “Innovator”?
Many potential applicants might hesitate, believing their idea isn’t groundbreaking enough. Bartel is quick to dispel that notion, explaining that innovation falls into two key categories.
- Revolutionary Innovation: These are brand-new technologies, products, or services that have never been seen before.
- Evolutionary Innovation: This involves making an improvement on something that already exists. “Think better, cheaper, faster,” Bartel explained. “That’s innovation too, and those folks should definitely consider applying also.”
How to Get Involved
With the recent graduation complete, OKFB is already in recruitment mode for its next cohort, which will begin in 2026 with a goal of serving at least 12 more rural entrepreneurs.
While applications are not yet formally open, interested individuals are encouraged to reach out now to get started in the process.
- Website: Visit okfarmbureau.org/accelerators for more information.
- Email: Contact Amarie Bartel directly at amarie.bartel@okfb.org.