Shellhammer appointed as head of U of A Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Phil Shellhammer, a seasoned business executive and serial entrepreneur, has recently taken on the role of director at the U of A Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation (OEI). With a strong background in business and a passion for fostering entrepreneurship, Shellhammer is poised to lead OEI into its next phase of growth and impact in Arkansas.

Having joined OEI in 2021 to oversee its Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program (GORP), Shellhammer has already made significant strides in expanding the program’s reach and impact. Since its inception, GORP has supported numerous startups and entrepreneurs in the outdoor recreation industry, providing them with valuable resources, networking opportunities, and access to co-working space.

Under Shellhammer’s leadership, GORP has seen remarkable growth, with 32 startups participating in its semiannual cohort program and over 300 entrepreneurs benefiting from its a la carte services. The program’s success has been further bolstered by a $1.2 million grant received in 2023 to expand its programming statewide and support founders in creating innovative products and services within the outdoor recreation industry.

Shellhammer attributes much of GORP’s impact to the dedicated team at OEI, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and teamwork in driving success. He also acknowledges the broader impact of OEI’s programming beyond the campus, noting the positive effects on students and the state as a whole.

Mike Malone, U of A’s vice chancellor for economic development, commends Shellhammer’s work in leading GORP and shaping OEI’s strategic plan, highlighting the significant impact it has had on students and the state. With Shellhammer at the helm, OEI is poised to continue its mission of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among students across all disciplines.

The U of A Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation plays a crucial role in creating and curating innovation and entrepreneurship experiences for students. Through various programs and initiatives, including the Brewer Family Entrepreneurship Hub, McMillon Innovation Studio, Startup Village, and Greenhouse at the Bentonville Collaborative, OEI provides students with the resources and support they need to succeed as innovators and entrepreneurs.

In conclusion, Phil Shellhammer’s appointment as director of the U of A Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation marks an exciting new chapter for the program. With his wealth of experience and passion for entrepreneurship, Shellhammer is well-positioned to lead OEI to even greater heights and make a lasting impact on Arkansas’s entrepreneurship ecosystem.