Robert Macy
Published May 14, 2025
Dear University of Wyoming Community,
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CEI) at the University of Wyoming. As director, I am honored to lead this dynamic hub where creativity, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit thrive. Whether you are a student, faculty, staff member or community partner, our goal is to support and empower you in your entrepreneurial and innovative pursuits.
The CEI operates as part of the Research and Economic Development Division, but our services extend to the entire university community. We believe that entrepreneurship is not confined to business alone — it is a mindset that can benefit all disciplines. Through our various programs, we provide hands-on learning, mentorship and real-world experiences that help students and faculty turn ideas into impactful ventures.
Our work is built on strong collaborations with key partners, including the Wyoming Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and other organizations dedicated to fostering economic growth and innovation in the state. Together, we offer comprehensive support for aspiring entrepreneurs, innovators and industry leaders.
At the CEI, we are proud to lead and support numerous initiatives:
University Student Entrepreneurship Club – We provide guidance and mentorship to students leading the campus entrepreneurship club, helping them connect with industry leaders, refine their business ideas and gain real-world experience.
NSF I-Corps – Our team assists Health and Bioscience Innovation Hub Director Steve Hanlon and Assistant Instructional Professor Ramsankar Veerakumar in delivering this prestigious program, helping participants to explore commercialization pathways for their research and innovative ideas.
Technology Commercialization Fellowship Program – This initiative teaches graduate students and Honors College students about technology transfer, intellectual property and how to bring innovations to market.
University Venture Capital Fund – We manage a hands-on venture capital fund that provides students with practical experience in evaluating and funding early-stage startups in collaboration with the Entrepreneurial Finance class in the College of Business.
Venture MBA Program Instruction – Our faculty contribute to the Venture MBA program, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to launch and scale ventures.
Engineering Senior Design Assistance – We collaborate with engineering students on their senior design projects, helping them to integrate entrepreneurial thinking and commercialization strategies.
CEI Faculty Fellows Program – This initiative celebrates and supports faculty fellows who champion innovation and entrepreneurship across campus, fostering a culture of creativity and forward-thinking.
Innovation Consulting Course – In partnership with the Wyoming SBDC, we link student consulting teams with local businesses and community partners, providing valuable problem-solving and strategic insights to advance companies and projects.
Master Craftsman Program – A unique initiative in collaboration with visual arts that provides students with hands-on experience in artistic design, fabrication, public art installation and sponsored projects. Through this program, students gain valuable skills in sculpture, metalwork and other artisan techniques while contributing to the university’s visual landscape.
Our programs are designed to be cross-campus, accessible and impactful, providing participants with opportunities to gain knowledge, network with like-minded individuals, and engage with the broader business and innovation ecosystem.
Whether you have a business idea, an invention or simply a passion for creativity and problem-solving, the CEI is here to support you. I invite you to reach out, attend our events and explore how we can help you bring your ideas to life.
We look forward to working with you and witnessing the incredible innovations and ventures that will emerge from the UW community.
Sincerely,
Robert Macy, J.D., Ph.D.
Director, Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation
University of Wyoming