The Wyoming Innovation Partnership is an initiative of Governor Mark Gordon that invests in modernizing and refocusing Wyoming's endeavors to cultivate a resilient workforce and economy. The initiative is committed to fostering collaboration between state entities and local partners, strategically aligning Wyoming's economic development agenda. WIP’s strength is collaboration, encompassing the University of Wyoming, the state's eight community colleges, the Wyoming Business Council, the Wyoming Department of Workforce Service and the Wyoming Department of Education.

Placing a strong emphasis on creating innovative solutions that bolster Wyoming's economy, workforce, and sources of revenue, WIP is building upon and complementing existing state initiatives related to economic development and ensuring the sustainability of these efforts.

Governor Gordon aptly summarizes the mission: "In order for industries to stay in or relocate to Wyoming, they must have confidence that Wyoming's workforce can meet their needs."

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Gains in Entrepreneurship for Wyoming

Phase I successes underscore the WIP's commitment to building the entrepreneurial system. That work includes collaborative innovation and supporting the longevity and success of Wyoming startups. Currently, 76.5% of Wyoming startups maintain activity after the crucial first year, and the WIP wants to build on that statistic.

A few key stories of success of WIP's support:

The Wyoming Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (WyCEI) at the University of Wyoming played a pivotal role in guiding Wyoming's entrepreneurial ecosystem, promoting growth, and creating opportunities. WyCEI enabled Cameron Schoening's launch of OneHealth, aiding rural residents in accessing healthcare.
At Central Wyoming College, the Bootstrap Collaborative Supported businesses such as Bow Spider, High Country Fungus, Wind and Sage Candle Co., and Ranching and Breeding operations.

These successes further emphasize the transformative impact of Phase I initiatives, aligning with the WIP's commitment to innovation in Wyoming.

Phase I Report

Why LCCC President Schaffer Believes in WIP

“By establishing programs, services, spaces, and connecting resources to address common entrepreneurship challenges, the Wyoming Innovation Partnership is building an entrepreneurial ecosystem across the state that will drive lasting economic impacts for generations to come.”

-Joe Schaffer

President of Laramie County Community College

Investing in Wyoming's Future Through Entrepreneurship

Exciting updates are in store for the impactful programs funded during Phase 2 of WIP. These initiatives underscore the WIP’s commitment to advancing innovation, entrepreneurship, and education across the state. Here's a snapshot of the projects currently underway:

Concept Forge at Laramie County Community College's Advanced Manufacturing and Material Center serves as a maker-to-market Fabrication Lab. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, Concept Forge is a vital resource for local students and community members. Additionally, the Wyrkshop Mobile Makerspace program at the University of Wyoming is revolutionizing STEAM education in rural communities, providing access to advanced technology and hands-on experience.

As part of Phase II Makerspace projects, Sheridan College and the Sheridan Phorge makerspace are investing in resources to support the local entrepreneur and manufacturing ecosystem. Sheridan College's new Tier 2 and 3 manufacturing incubator aligns with state diversification goals, supporting the region's growing manufacturing hub. This investment is a testament to the commitment to providing technologically relevant training opportunities and making a difference in our communities through educational leadership.

Recognizing the importance of Wyoming's creative economy, WIP is driving initiatives led by UW’s Neltje Center for Excellence in Creativity and the Arts, in collaboration with Sheridan College and Northwest College. These initiatives include creative economy workshops, a start-up competition, mentoring, and the development of a centralized hub for resources, with upcoming workshops planned in Laramie, Sheridan, Riverton, Powell, and Rock Springs in Fall 2023 and Spring 2024.

Phase II Updates

Governor Gordon knows the importance of boots on the ground (or in this case, off the ground) leadership. The Powerline Technology program at Western Wyoming Community College is a great example of the expansive efforts the WIP is supporting to bolster Wyoming's future through home-grown educational and workforce opportunities.

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