NWA Martial Arts Academy manager and instructor Michael Felix had a lifelong goal of owning his own studio. When the Academy went up for sale in September 2023, he reached out to the University of Alaska's Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center for help evaluating the value of his business and proceeded to purchase the studio.
Mary Beth Brooks, a business consultant and director of the center, worked with Felix to complete a business plan to develop a financial workbook, financial projections, and financing package. The purchase of the academy was made possible through a loan from the Small Business Administration (SBA) through First Community Bank. After 17 years of teaching professionally, Felix's dream of owning a studio built on positive mental attitudes, inclusivity, and fun became a reality in late December 2023.
As owner and lead instructor, Felix is a 5th degree Tansudo black belt, a 3rd degree Taekwondo black belt, holds a master certification, and has competed on several global, national, and regional circuits. Ta. NWA Martial Arts Academy offers training from white belt to 4th degree black belt and has a competitive martial arts team with multiple regionally and nationally ranked athletes.
Felix and the Academy believe in the transformative power of martial arts to teach children life skills, build physical strength, and develop discipline, while also promoting some serious fun. The calendar includes classes, tests, and seminars, as well as movie nights, holiday-themed parties, potlucks, and more.
Felix assumed full ownership of NWA Martial Arts Academy on January 1, 2024. He said the first month had been hectic but fulfilling, and he took the time to express his gratitude to Center and Brooks. “Thank you for all your help and support so far,” he said. “You were amazing!”
NWA Martial Arts Academy
1814 N. Crossover Road Suite 2
Fayetteville, AR 72701
