A Bold New Era for Bentonville

Northwest Arkansas continues to make headlines—and this time, it’s thanks to a visionary move from Steuart and Tom Walton, grandsons of Walmart founder Sam Walton. The two have unveiled plans to launch a new private university in Bentonville focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), helping position the region as a rising hub for innovation and economic development.

A University for the Future

Set on the site of Walmart’s original home office near downtown Bentonville, the future institution will offer flexible, modern programs tailored to fast-growing fields like automation, logistics, biomedical technology, and computing. With an expected inaugural class of 500 students—and room to grow—the university is designed to meet the evolving demands of today’s workforce and tomorrow’s economy.

According to the announcement, this won’t be a traditional university. Instead, it will embrace a dynamic, stackable credential model, making education more accessible and aligned with real-world job markets. Tuition will be fully covered for the initial cohort to attract driven, entrepreneurial students nationwide.

Why It Matters to Fayetteville (and All of NWA)

The creation of this STEM-focused university underscores the rapid transformation happening throughout Northwest Arkansas. What once was known solely as Walmart country is now a magnet for talent, innovation, and cultural development. From Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art to extensive bike trail systems and now, a groundbreaking educational institution, the region is becoming one of the most desirable places to live, work, and study.

This announcement signals a growing opportunity for property management professionals in Fayetteville and the surrounding areas. As Northwest Arkansas continues to attract students, faculty, tech professionals, and entrepreneurs, housing demand across the region—including Fayetteville—is poised to rise. The university will enrich Bentonville and ripple economic and cultural energy throughout the entire NWA corridor.

What’s Next

With construction and planning underway, and an eye toward a more agile, tech-forward education model, this university will be one to watch. For those living in Fayetteville—or considering a move to this growing region—now is an exciting time. The future is being built just up the road.



Looking for a place to call home in Northwest Arkansas? Our team at Elder Management Company is here to help you find the perfect spot to live, whether you’re a student, faculty member, or professional drawn to the new energy sweeping through our corner of the state. Visit our vacancies page today to get started on finding your new property!