Central Wyoming Innovation & Entrepreneurship Conference Returns with National Keynotes

The annual conference in Riverton, WY features speakers, workshops, and special culinary and concert experiences.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Central Wyoming College is hosting the second annual Central Wyoming Innovation & Entrepreneurship Conference on April 23-24 in Riverton, Wyoming. The conference will feature keynote speakers including Daymond John, Kristen Hadeed, Gary Schoeniger, and Sean Sherman, as well as a special address from Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon. Attendees will have access to breakout sessions on topics like entrepreneurial thinking, AI, manufacturing, and workforce development. The event will also include a book signing with Daymond John, an Indigenous-inspired culinary experience with Sean Sherman, and a live concert.

Why it matters

The conference aims to bring together entrepreneurs, business leaders, educators, and trades professionals to share ideas, build partnerships, and strengthen Wyoming's economic vitality. It highlights the state's focus on innovation, workforce development, and supporting small businesses and startups.

The details

The conference will feature keynote presentations from high-profile speakers like Daymond John, Kristen Hadeed, and Sean Sherman. Attendees will also have access to numerous breakout sessions on topics like entrepreneurial thinking, AI, manufacturing, and workforce development. A special panel discussion on a timely industry topic is also planned. The event places a strong emphasis on Career & Technical Education (CTE), recognizing that many students entering the trades will ultimately manage or operate small businesses.

  • The Central Wyoming Innovation & Entrepreneurship Conference will be held on April 23-24, 2026.
  • Early bird registration is available through February 28 for $225.
  • Beginning March 1, the all-access conference pass will be $275.

The players

Daymond John

Entrepreneur, Shark Tank investor, and founder of FUBU.

Kristen Hadeed

Author and nationally recognized leadership and workplace culture expert.

Gary Schoeniger

International leader in entrepreneurial mindset education.

Sean Sherman

Award-winning chef, educator, author, and founder of The Sioux Chef, dedicated to revitalizing Indigenous cuisine.

Mark Gordon

Governor of Wyoming.

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What they’re saying

“Entrepreneurship is vital to Wyoming's economy, and Central Wyoming College's commitment to investing in people, ideas, and collaboration has delivered lasting results — supporting more than 270 entrepreneurs, launching 35 new businesses, and strengthening the statewide ecosystem through the Wyoming Innovation Partnership.”

— Mark Gordon, Governor of Wyoming (Central Wyoming College)

“This conference brings together the people who are actively shaping Wyoming's future. We're creating a space where entrepreneurs, trades professionals, educators, students, and industry leaders can share ideas, build partnerships, and strengthen the economic vitality of our communities. It's about practical resources, meaningful conversations, and long-term impact.”

— Brittany Yeates, Dean of Business and Industry at Central Wyoming College (Central Wyoming College)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This conference highlights Wyoming's focus on fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce development to drive economic growth and support small businesses and startups across the state.