CENTRAL WYOMING INNOVATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP CONFERENCE (cwie)

THUrsday, April 23 - Friday, April 24, 2026

Thursday, April 23

7:30 AM – 12:00 PMRegistration / Continental BreakfastRobert A. Peck Arts Center – Theatre Gallery
8:45 – 9:15 AMOpening SessionRobert A. Peck Arts Center – Theatre
9:15 – 10:15 AMKristen HadeedRobert A. Peck Arts Center – Theatre
10:15 – 10:45 AMBreak 
10:45 – 11:45 AMGary SchoenigerRobert A. Peck Arts Center – Theatre
12:00 – 1:30 PMLunch & Book SigningStudent Center Gymnasium
1:45 – 2:30 PMBreakout Session #1
Organization: The BARK Firm
Marketing in the Age of AI (Without Screwing It Up)
In this high-energy, beginner-friendly session, Dustin and Sommer from The BARK Firm break down the difference between branding, marketing, and advertising and the order in which they actually belong. Most small businesses get this backwards by posting or advertising before they have a solid brand, often layering AI on top of that existing chaos. With over 17 years of experience, the presenters provide a clear framework and simple AI tools that startups and small business owners can use to gain clarity, confidence, and a smarter path forward.
MH 171
Organization: University of Wyoming (UW)
Intro to Disciplined Entrepreneurship Framework
This session introduces participants to the Disciplined Entrepreneurship framework, a systematic approach to building a successful startup. By following a structured methodology, entrepreneurs can move from an initial idea to a scalable product while mitigating common risks associated with new ventures. It is designed for those looking for a rigorous, step-by-step process to ensure their business idea has a solid foundation for growth.
Little Theater
Organization: Startup Wyoming – Open Range Coaches
Know Thyself: Building Your Professional Roadmap
Gain clarity about your values, strengths, and professional direction in this engaging breakout session. Through guided reflection and collaborative exercises, participants will explore mindset shifts that support purposeful work and effective leadership. Attendees will leave with a personal mission statement and practical goals to guide their next professional steps.
ITECC 125
Organization: RJ Tech
Empowering through Growth Mindset for Entrepreneurs
This breakout session focuses on empowering individuals through the power of a growth mindset, specifically tailored for leaders and entrepreneurs. Participants will explore how shifting their perspective can lead to more successful leadership and improved business outcomes. The session aims to provide practical tools for evaluating business culture and overcoming the mental barriers that often hinder progress in the early stages of a venture.
ITECC 121
Organization: Women in Business Panel
Innovate, Lead, Succeed: Women Shaping the Future of Business
Hear from inspiring Wyoming business leaders as they share their journeys, challenges, and lessons learned in entrepreneurship and leadership. Panelists include Jolene Osback, Kami Cunningham, Amanda Brodie, and Sue Muncaster. This engaging discussion offers insight, encouragement, and practical advice for women building businesses and careers in Wyoming.
HS 100
Organization: Department of Workforce Services
Funding the Future: Workforce Programs that Power Business Growth
Discover workforce grant and funding opportunities available to Wyoming businesses through the Business Training and Support Unit (BTSU). This session highlights state and federally funded programs that support employee training, skill advancement, and workforce development. Attendees will learn how businesses, nonprofits, and training providers can access these resources to strengthen their teams.
ITECC 116
2:45 – 3:30 PMBreakout Session #2
Organization: Wyoming Business Council
Wyoming Business Council: Fueling Growth, Funding Opportunities
The Wyoming Business Council offers a range of programs and services designed to help businesses start, grow, and thrive across the state. From grant and loan funding to workforce development support, infrastructure investment, and business recruitment, their resources are built to strengthen local economies and expand opportunity. Whether you’re launching a new venture or scaling an existing business, the Council provides guidance, connections, and financial tools to support long-term success in Wyoming.
HS 100
Organization: University of Wyoming (UW)
Disciplined Entrepreneurship: Next Steps
Take your entrepreneurial journey to the next level by building on the core principles introduced in the introductory framework. This session moves beyond ideation to focus on practical application—equipping participants with the tools to test assumptions, refine their value proposition, and develop scalable, market-ready ventures. Through a structured, step-by-step approach, attendees will gain the confidence and clarity needed to move from concept to execution with purpose and precision.
Little Theater
Organization: Startup Wyoming
Breaking Through Your Barriers: Turning Ideas Into Action
Turning ideas into action is one of the biggest challenges entrepreneurs face. This interactive session helps participants identify the barriers that hold them back and develop practical strategies to move forward. Attendees will leave with a drafted Opportunity Canvas, a clear action plan, and tools to turn inspiration into momentum.
ITECC 125
Organization: Dr. M. Chitra, Rishihood University
From Idea to Action: Building Sustainable Ventures
Led by an award-winning entrepreneurship educator and mentor, this session goes beyond theory to focus on building real, sustainable ventures. Participants will learn how to validate ideas, make informed early-stage decisions, and turn concepts into practical business models. By connecting key entrepreneurial principles with real-world application, this session provides a clear path from idea to action.
ITECC 121
Organization: O3 Consulting
AI for Business: Practical Tools for Smarter Growth
Discover how emerging AI tools help businesses work smarter, communicate more effectively, and unlock new opportunities. This session is tailored for entrepreneurs and business operators, providing a practical overview of today’s most useful AI capabilities and tools across business functions. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of where AI can create real value, how to start using it responsibly, and which tools may best fit their business as the technology continues to evolve.
ITECC 116
Organization: Wyoming SBDC Network & Manufacturing Works
From Idea to Impact: Manufacturing & Innovation Panel
This panel showcases Wyoming manufacturers—spanning sectors such as robotics, food, and outdoor gear—whose innovations reflect the modern face of the state’s manufacturing industry. Attendees will learn how to overcome common challenges such as workforce development, funding, and navigating complex regulations. The session provides actionable insights into integrating advanced manufacturing and automation while building scalable business models for high-growth potential.
MH 171
Organization: SBA and USDA Rural Development
Rural Business Financing Now and Later
A team of Wyoming-based SBA and USDA finance specialists share their best tips for getting business ideas and loan requests funded. Whether you are looking for a small amount for a side hustle or larger capital for facility expansion, this session covers expectations for industry experience and personal investment. It also highlights specific loan programs for rural entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and veterans, as well as information on value-added producer grants and 1:1 consultation opportunities.
MH 169
3:45 – 5:00 PMSean ShermanRobert A. Peck Arts Center – Theatre
5:00 – 6:45 PMDinner Break
Food trucks will be available on campus as well as the food court for participants to get dinner before the concert. Seating will be available in the Intertribal Center for those staying on campus for dinner.
Campus / Food Court / Intertribal Center
7:00 – 7:40 PMJena Spriggs OpeningRobert A. Peck Arts Center – Theatre
8:00 – 9:30 PMJason Pritchett ConcertRobert A. Peck Arts Center – Theatre

Friday, April 24

7:30 – 9:15 AMRegistration / Continental BreakfastRobert A. Peck Arts Center – Theatre Gallery
8:15 – 9:15 AMIndustry Panel
Christian Bitzas: Founder of Ecos Atlas
Rocky Case: Director, Manufacturing Works
Kevin Kershisnik: Executive Director, IDEA Inc.
Beth Monteiro: Executive Director, CWC Foundation
Lisa Mueller: Chief Operating Officer, MC2 Collaborative
Robert A. Peck Arts Center – Theatre
9:15 – 9:30 AMCWC President Brad TyndallRobert A. Peck Arts Center – Theatre
9:30 – 10:00 AMGovernor Mark GordonRobert A. Peck Arts Center – Theatre
10:00 – 11:30 AMDaymond JohnRobert A. Peck Arts Center – Theatre
11:30 AM – 12:00 PMDaymond John Book Signing / AutographsRobert A. Peck Arts Center – Theatre Gallery