March 27, 2025
The Startup State Initiative offers a wide range of resources, from a statewide resource list to its entrepreneur journey that outlines the startup process step by step. A key feature of its site is Nova, an interactive chatbot accessible from the bottom corner of the screen, appearing as a green chat bubble.
Designed to be user-friendly, Nova assists users who may be unsure of their next steps — whether navigating the site or progressing in their startup journey.
When a conversation is initiated, Nova will collect preliminary information, such as the stage a business is in, which industry it most closely aligns with and where it is located. Once it has a feel for the company and product or service, you can begin to ask questions.
For example, if you’re interested in funding options, Nova might respond by saying, “Funding sources include small business loans, grants, venture capital, angel investors, business competitions, and crowdfunding. Check out our small business funding page for more information.” It may also link to reated events or share filtered resources.
Unlike generative AI models, Nova pulls from a curated database of information tailored to common startup inquiries. Nova can also direct users to relevant resources within the website or external sources for further guidance if a question falls outside its scope.
Nova serves as a bridge between entrepreneurs and the vast array of resources offered by the Startup State Initiative, making starting and growing a business more accessible and navigable. As an additional fact, users can also ask Nova questions, like what its favorite food is.
Watch the tutorial below, and try it out for yourself by visiting the Startup State Initiative’s website.
The information in this article is current as of the publishing date and is intended for informational purposes only. This article does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal, tax, or business advice. Any resources and organizations mentioned, unless an entity of or a partner of the state of Utah, are not formally endorsed by the Startup State Initiative or state of Utah.