Two University of Arkansas startups will participate in the prestigious 2011 Rice University Business Plan Competition April 14-16 in Houston.

These are some exciting times in the startup junkie world in Arkansas. Recently, in addition to Gravity Ventures, I’ve heard through official and rumored channels about three more tech-focused venture funds in varying stages of formation that will be aimed at Arkansas.

Silicon Solar Solutions, a regular winner on the business-plan competition circuit, will compete for the grand prize at the Cleantech Open National Awards Gala and Expo in San Jose, Calif. on Wednesday.

Another University of Arkansas startup, another prestigious business-plan competition win, another NASDAQ bell ringing. More international prestige for Arkansas entrepreneurs.