Phil Shellhamer has been named the new director of the University of Arkansas’ Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, leading a team that is “leading the way in transforming Arkansas into a distinct destination for new businesses,” according to a university press release. He is said to have decided to supervise it.
“Few programs in our region have had the impact and growth OEI has had on our entrepreneurship ecosystem over the past few years,” Shellhamer said. “OEI is honored to be asked to lead OEI into its next phase. OEI is looking forward to a great year of growth, building on the success of our current programs and building on opportunities for growth at our university, in our community, and across the state of Arkansas.” We are welcoming you.”
Shellhammer will succeed Sarah Goforth, who has led OEI since 2017. She will take on a new position at UA to be announced later.
Shellhamer, an Ohio native, is an accomplished manager and serial entrepreneur. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Cincinnati and a master’s degree in business administration from Harvard’s School of Business.
Shellhamer joined UA in 2021 to oversee the Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program (GORP), one of OEI’s three business incubators.
Since launching GORP with four startups in spring 2022, 32 startups have scaled their businesses through GORP’s semi-annual cohort program. GORP has also supported over 300 entrepreneurs through a la carte services such as workshops, networking events, one-on-one consulting, and access to co-working spaces.
In 2023, OEI received a $1.2 million grant to expand the GORP program across the state and support founders creating innovative products and services within the outdoor recreation industry.
Shellhamer credits much of GORP’s influence to the team at OEI.
“GORP has had a significant impact on hundreds of early-stage outdoor recreation companies founded in our community,” he said. “This impact was only possible because of the amazing team at OEI.”
Mike Malone, UA’s vice chancellor for economic development, noted that OEI’s programs go beyond campus.
“Phil’s work leading GORP and supporting OEI’s strategic planning has had a tremendous impact on our students and our state. I am excited about all that will be accomplished under his leadership as Executive Director. I’m very excited.”
Related article: Shellhamer named head of UA Entrepreneurship and Innovation
