UA's Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program Announces Spring 2026 Cohort

The Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program, U of A's outdoor recreation business incubation program, has launched the eighth cohort of its cohort incubator with six participating companies.   

The newest cohort includes an eclectic mix of companies focused on cycling, watersport apparel and outdoor education. The 12-week program began earlier this month and runs through May.

"This is a strong mix of companies that taps into all the strengths of Arkansas' outdoor landscape: cycling, paddling, hiking and outdoor education," said Phil Shellhammer, executive director of UA's Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, which oversees GORP. 

"We're excited to watch these companies grow and elevate the best features of the Natural State." 

GORP supports outdoor startups with workshop training, founder mentoring, university intern access and dedicated product/service development to help them scale globally.  

GORP also provides up to $15,000 in non-dilutive seed funding per company — funding that doesn't require the owner to give up equity in the company — to be used on any business needs, including marketing, legal fees, branding support and equipment.  

Founders in previous cohorts have praised GORP for its leadership, access to mentors, and the program's ability to provide high-quality interns. 

GORP launched with four startups in spring 2022. In the last three years, 47 startups have expanded their businesses through GORP's semiannual cohort program. 

GORP has also supported more than 500 entrepreneurs through its a la carte services and complimentary GORP ARound the State program, which include workshops, networking events, one-on-one consulting and free online video trainings. 

More than 85% of GORP companies are still in-market, with the majority growing in sales. 

Some notable alumni include Gnargo Bikes, Jane Wick, Roasties, , Yonder Adventure Co., and the GeoShower. 

GORP is supported by a $1.4 million grant from the Walton Family Charitable Support Foundation.  

GORP'S Sring 2026 Cohort

BikeWhip.com

Founder: Jeff Ireland 

BikeWhip is a bike discovery platform that helps riders easily find bikes locally to rent or buy. By organizing fragmented rental and used-bike listings into a single searchable platform, BikeWhip makes it easier to compare options across shops and individuals. The platform is focused on cycling destinations like Northwest Arkansas, helping both visitors and residents access bikes more efficiently. 

Oakdrop

Founder: Alex Stoeffl 
Oakdrop designs high-quality paddling equipment that improves comfort and performance on the water. Founded by longtime paddlesports professional Alex Stoeffl, the brand's first product is a lightweight spray skirt that is easier to use and more comfortable than traditional designs, helping kayakers spend more time enjoying their time on the water. 

Ozark Float Park

Founder: Michael Barron 
Ozark Float Park is a seasonal floating recreation park concept designed to bring active, family-friendly outdoor fun to Northwest Arkansas lakes. The park will feature a floating inflatable obstacle course along with paddleboard, kayak, and tube rentals — giving families, tourists, and youth groups a fun way to stay active and cool during the summer months. 

Rewilding Lab

Founder: Dana Klisanin 
Rewilding Lab creates guided outdoor experiences that help people reconnect with nature through mindful engagement on local trails. Programs such as forest bathing, sensory awareness hikes, and creative nature exploration are designed to support well-being while encouraging greater participation in Northwest Arkansas's parks and natural spaces. Experiences are designed for individuals, teams, and organizations. 

The Wander Outdoor Adventure Hub

Founders: William Edgar and Jen Marie 
The Wander Outdoor Adventure Hub is an adventure cycling basecamp designed to support cyclists visiting and riding in Northwest Arkansas. The company helps riders prepare for cycling adventures by providing bike setup, trip logistics support, repairs, and local route guidance — making it easier for both visitors and locals to experience the region's growing cycling tourism scene. 

Vault Mobility

Founder: Gabriel Cerasale 
Vault Mobility deploys secure, smart bike parking hubs at trailheads and local destinations across Northwest Arkansas. Vault hubs give cyclists the confidence to leave their bikes and explore — helping more riders stop, stay, and experience everything the trail network has to offer. 

About the University of Arkansas Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation: The Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation creates and curates innovation and entrepreneurship experiences for students across all disciplines. Through the Brewer Family Entrepreneurship Hub, McMillon Innovation Studio and Startup Village, OEI provides free workshops and programs, including venture internships, competitions and startup coaching. A unit of the Sam M. Walton College of Business and the Division of Economic Development, OEI also supports students and entrepreneurs launching new ventures or innovating within existing organizations.