The outdoor recreation business incubation program at the University of Arkansas has launched the eighth cohort of its cohort incubator with six participating companies.
The 2026 Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program includes an eclectic mix of companies focused on cycling, watersport apparel and outdoor education, according to a release from the U of A’s Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation. 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 the 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 includes workshops, networking events, one-on-one consulting and free online video trainings.
More than 85 percent of GORP companies are still in-market, with the majority growing in sales. Notable alumni companies 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 SPRING 2026 COHORT
BikeWhip.com
Founder: Jeff Ireland
BikeWhip is a bike discovery platform that helps riders easily find bikes to rent or buy locally. 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: Dr. 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’ 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.
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