FUELING INNOVATION:

EMPOWERING WYOMING’S STUDENT
ENTREPRENEURS

The John P. Ellbogen $50K Entrepreneurship Competition at the University of Wyoming encourages students across Wyoming to turn their ideas into thriving businesses. Open to all UW and community college students, the competition awards cash prizes to top ventures with strong business potential. Participants gain access to business consulting, mentorship from C-level executives, financial guidance, and a network of investors and partners. Multi-disciplinary teams are encouraged, fostering diverse skill sets essential for success.

RSVP today

26 YEARS OF SUPPORTING INNOVATION

lightbulb with steamboat icon

During it’s inaugural year, introduced as the UW $10K Competition, the College of Business saw eight teams compete.

After 10 successful years of competition, the prize money increased to $30,000, and the event was renamed the UW $30K Competition.

The prize was further elevated to $50,000 with a generous donation from John P. Ellogen, leading to its current title, the John P. Ellbogen $50K Entrepreneurship Competition.

Learn more

RELIVE THE 2025 COMPETITION

2025 RECAP

WANT TO GET INVOLVED?

To learn more about any of our College of Business Programs or Resources, contact:

Sarah Drewry, Entrepreneurship & Venture Initiatives Coordinator
entr@uwyo.edu

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

Presenting Sponsor

The John P. Ellbogen Foundation –

The Ellbogen Foundation is the founding and presenting sponsor of the John P. Ellbogen $50K Entrepreneurship Competition. Their visionary leadership and enduring support established the competition and continue to make it possible each year. Through their investment, they empower student entrepreneurs, drive innovation, and strengthen Wyoming’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

LEARN MORE ABOUT JOHN P. ELLBOGEN »

Premier Sponsors

First Interstate Bank

The Charles A. Micale Foundation, First Interstate Bank, The Wyoming Innovation Partnership –

Our Premier Sponsors provide critical support that powers the full competition experience. In addition to sponsoring awards, their contributions help fund team preparation, workshops, recruiting efforts, and the overall execution of the competition itself. Their involvement ensures participants have the resources and support needed to succeed.

Award Sponsors

Daniels Fund Ethics Initiative Collegiate Program First Interstate Bank

Jon Benson, The Center for Principle-Based Leadership & Ethics, The Charles A. Micale Foundation, First Interstate Bank, The Wyoming Innovation Partnership, The John P. Ellbogen Foundation –

Our Award Sponsors play a vital role in recognizing and rewarding student achievement. By funding individual awards, they directly support student ventures and celebrate innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial excellence across the competition.

Award Structure Information