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August 23, 2021 / 2021 40 Under Forty Award Honorees

2021 40 Under Forty: Jennifer Mathieu

Jen Fiereck | J.Fiereck photography
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Jennifer Mathieu is the Director of the Connecticut Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at UConn, where she supports economic development by fostering initiatives for startups and small businesses. She is a mentor within community organizations, serves on several advisory boards for startups and consults with entrepreneurs. 

An entrepreneur herself, she founded Jennifer Elizabeth Design Studio, an inspirational carded jewelry company. that has partnered with brands and subscription box services and is available in 125 retail locations nationwide.

What’s been your biggest professional/work accomplishment so far in your career? 

My personal mission is to inspire others — specifically inspiring entrepreneurs to overcome hurdles they are facing in launching their businesses. I feel my greatest accomplishment is ultimately seeing the entrepreneurs, startups and students I have worked with be successful.

How are you involved in the community? 

I volunteer my time as a mentor and advisor for startups and small businesses across the state. I am particularly passionate about supporting women entrepreneurs and have engaged with community organizations that serve this mission.

What do you like to do outside of work? 

I’m fueled by adventure. I love to run, hike and travel — really any activity where I can be outside. I enjoy cooking, baking and teaching myself new recipes. I am passionate about supporting small businesses and like to visit local restaurants, boutiques,and other unique places around Connecticut.

Four reasons why you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty:

Channeled over $1M in grant and other funding into UConn to support entrepreneurship programs.

Founding member of the MedTech Advisory Board that launched the first Digital Health accelerator in Hartford. 

Founded and launched several new initiatives within UConn and state-wide to support the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Helped to start, launch, and grow hundreds of startups and small businesses over the last four years.

Fun Fact 

My siblings and I have matching sunflower tattoos to honor our mom who passed away a few years ago.


 

Age: 33

Company: Connecticut Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation

Title: Director

No. of years with current company: 4

Town where I live: West Hartford

Town where I work: Hartford & Storrs

College: UConn

Highest degree: Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration

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