Oklahoma Business Incubator Association Continues Decades-Long Support for State’s Startup Ecosystem

For more than two decades, the Oklahoma Business Incubator Association (OKBIA) has served as a cornerstone for the state’s entrepreneurial growth, providing vital support and advocacy for the network of organizations dedicated to nurturing new businesses.

Established over 20 years ago, OKBIA’s core mission remains a steadfast commitment to bolstering the effectiveness of business incubators across Oklahoma. The association serves as a crucial hub for information sharing, networking, guidance and direct assistance for incubator operators, along with actively engaging with the State Legislature to promote policies that benefit and strengthen the business incubation sector.

In 2025, OKBIA boasted 34 member organizations represented by 54 professionals. OKBIA hosts quarterly meetings, rotating the location among incubators statewide. These gatherings allow current managers to exchange best practices and also serve as an open invitation for interested incubator managers to learn about the role of incubators in Oklahoma’s economic development efforts.

Recognizing Success: The 2025 Tenant of the Year

OKBIA takes a lead role in celebrating the tangible results of the incubator model by proudly sponsoring the Incubator Tenant of the Year at the Oklahoma Venture Forum Awards.

The 2025 honor was awarded to Elizabeth Threlkeld of Sunny Creek Trading Post, a resident tenant at the Pioneer Tech Center Incubator in Ponca City. Sunny Creek Trading Post recently graduated from the program establishing its new, independent business location—a prime example of the successful launch model OKBIA champions. 

As Oklahoma’s economy continues to diversify and expand, organizations like OKBIA remain instrumental in ensuring that the next generation of businesses has the dedicated support required to move from concept to commercial success.

For more information on OKBIA, visit www.okbia.org.