FORT SMITH, Ark. — Main Street Fort Smith is excited to announce that Crystal Bedney, owner of Serious Fiber, has been selected as the winner of the Main Street Fort Smith Commerce Collective: A Downtown Business Incubator following a competitive application and pitch
process.
Serious Fiber is a specialty fiber arts business offering hand-dyed yarns, spinning fibers, knitting and crochet tools, and educational classes for all skill levels. A Navy veteran turned fiber artist, Bedney has built a loyal following through her passion for yarn crafts and commitment to
creating a welcoming and creative community for fellow makers.
The Commerce Collective program was created by Main Street Fort Smith to support emerging entrepreneurs while activating downtown storefronts through short-term retail opportunities. Applicants submitted business proposals before finalists were selected to participate in a live
pitch session evaluated by a panel of judges.
As the selected winner, Serious Fiber will receive the opportunity to launch in a downtown Fort Smith retail space with support designed to help establish and grow the business in a brick-and-mortar environment.
“We are thrilled to welcome Crystal and Serious Fiber to downtown Fort Smith,” said Amanda Hager, Executive Director of Main Street Fort Smith. “Her creativity, passion, and strong vision for community engagement made Serious Fiber stand out throughout the process. We believe
this business will bring a unique and exciting experience to downtown.” Bedney is currently preparing the space and plans to announce an official opening date in the near future.
The Commerce Collective initiative reflects Main Street Fort Smith’s ongoing commitment to supporting small businesses, encouraging entrepreneurship, and creating vibrant downtown experiences for residents and visitors alike.
For more information about Serious Fiber, visit seriousfiber.com or follow Serious Fiber on Facebook and Instagram.
Crystal Bedney is available for media interviews. Interview requests and media inquiries should be coordinated through Amanda Hager at Main Street Fort Smith.
For more information about Main Street Fort Smith and the Commerce Collective program, visit Main Street Fort Smith.
Media Contact:
Amanda Hager
Executive Director, Main Street Fort Smith
(479) 462-9132
director@mainstreetfs.org
www.mainstreetfs.org
About Main Street Fort Smith
Main Street Fort Smith is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit leading the revitalization of downtown through arts and culture, small business support, placemaking, and community events. From live music and public art to entrepreneur resources and streetscape improvements, the organization creates welcoming spaces that spark foot traffic, investment, and opportunity. Main Street Fort Smith is a proud program of Main Street Arkansas and a designated member of Main Street America.