Phil Shellhammer and GORP are Stewarding The Next Generation of Entrepreneurs in The Outdoor Recreation Industry

About the Show:We recently sat down with Phil Shellhammer, the Director of the Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program (GORP) from the Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Arkansas.Phil discussed in detail his new role and the mission of GORP. Northwest Arkansas is not just fertile ground for Fortune 50 Companies. It’s also one of the best outdoor recreation areas in the country, so it should come as no surprise that firms related to this industry find Northwest Arkansas to be a great place to start or expand their business.  Phil and his team hit the ground running and are not looking back.  Listen to the whole episode to learn more about their plans in this area. And, if you or someone you know loves the great outdoors and has a business idea that you would like to process, you need to reach out to Phil Shellhammer at GORP.  Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Phil ShellhammerWebsite for Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program (GORP)LIVSN Designs - Sustainable Outdoor Clothing and Apparel CompanyWebsite for 37 North Expeditions37 North Expeditions Podcast Episode This episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at [email protected] With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas Mentioned in this episode:Winetopia 2026Winetopia 2026 Date: Friday, October 16th Time: 7-10pm Place: Stonebreaker Hotel on Markham hill Winetopia is Restore Humanity’s biggest annual fundraiser and brings together the very best of Northwest Arkansas (restaurants, artisans, small businesses, and (community members) to support our work. While the event raises essential funds for children in Kenya, its heartbeat is entirely local. There are over 100 local businesses who contribute auction items, regional chefs and beverage makers who showcase their craft, and the hundreds of residents gathering to celebrate community generosity. Winetopia strengthens local partnerships, elevates homegrown talent, and reinforces Northwest Arkansas's identity as a place where global compassion is fueled by local collaboration. Winetopia is a beautiful demonstration of how a united local community can create life-changing impact for children and families worldwide. Winetopia 2026