The Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program (GORP) is preparing for a statewide expansion and has appointed Elizabeth Quinn to lead the initiative. Quinn, who brings a wealth of experience in business and economic development, is enthusiastic to support entrepreneurs utilizing Arkansas’ natural resources. GORP’s plans include hosting a series of events across the state to facilitate its entrepreneurial support program.
Elizabeth Quinn, a senior manager at GORP, expressed her excitement and passion for the program’s mission. She cited the public land and waterways of Arkansas as valuable resources for entrepreneurs and highlighted her commitment to furthering economic development through this initiative.
In line with its expansion plans, GORP aims to focus on specific areas that have been identified as opportunity zones for the outdoor recreation economy. The program has secured a £1.2 million grant, matched by an additional £1 million in funding from the state of Arkansas, to drive its efforts.
The upcoming public events, scheduled to commence in May, aim to engage communities and entrepreneurs across the state. These events will feature prominent speakers in the outdoor recreation industry, sharing their insights and experiences with the audience.
In addition to the community events, GORP’s services will encompass workshops, networking opportunities, and general entrepreneurial support, benefitting over 300 entrepreneurs thus far. The Cohort Incubator, located in Bentonville, will play a pivotal role in providing selected applicants with a 12-week program including workshops, mentorship, and funding support.
“We started GORP with the goal of supporting as many early-stage founders building a business in this industry,” said Phil Shellhammer, OEI’s executive director. “It’s a natural next step to expand this programming to as many regions of our state as we can, and I couldn’t be more excited that Quinn has taken on this effort.”
The Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation (OEI) at the U of A will be closely involved in overseeing GORP’s expansion plans. OEI offers a range of entrepreneurship experiences for students and supports innovation and entrepreneurial ventures across various disciplines.
The Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program’s initiative to expand statewide and promote entrepreneurship aligns with the university’s commitment to fostering innovation and economic development.
For further information, please contact:
Brandon Howard, Communications Manager
Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation
501-707-5779
[email protected]