For this recent University of Delaware graduate, entrepreneurship isn’t just about building a business, it’s about building community. With a degree in Environmental Studies, a certificate in Eco-Entrepreneurship, and a passion for creating ethical, environmentally conscious solutions, Alana Hill, class of 2025, is already making waves with Island Dream Clean, a venture that blends eco-friendly products with education and connection.
What inspired you to apply to the REEF@UD Fellowship?
The Fellowship first caught my attention during my sophomore year when I participated in the REEF@UD Eco Entrepreneurship Design Sprint. That experience, working with a group to develop an idea and present it to investors, really sharpened my creativity, leadership, and teamwork skills. I enjoyed the challenges, the process of finding solutions, and of course, celebrating the wins. That’s what inspired me to take things a step further and apply to the Fellowship.
Tell us about your venture and what environmental challenge you are tackling.
Environmental awareness is on the rise, but there’s still so much confusion and frustration when it comes to finding eco-friendly solutions for everyday life. People spend time researching products, trying new methods, and cleaning up after themselves and others. Island Dream Clean aims to change that by offering eco-friendly, tropically scented cleaning products paired with educational content. Our products help home and business owners refresh their spaces without harmful chemicals, while our content helps erase consumer guilt and foster a better understanding of environmental awareness. It’s about providing a clean space and peace of mind.
What was a highlight of your REEF@UD experience?
Cheering on my fellow entrepreneurs! I loved seeing the fear and uncertainty fade from someone’s face after a simple high five or word of encouragement. Those moments of support reminded me how important it is to celebrate not just our own work, but the work of those around us. That’s what made REEF@UD so special: it’s not just about your idea, it’s about all of us lifting each other up.
What’s one skill or insight you’re taking away from the program?
The biggest insight for me was learning to have faith in confidence. I used to associate confidence with pride or jealousy, so I avoided it. But through this program, I realized that confidence, when combined with faith in yourself and your mission, is a powerful, positive force. It uplifts not just you, but your team and your business. I’ve learned to embrace it.
How has REEF@UD shaped your thinking about entrepreneurship, sustainability, or your future career path?
It’s given me the confidence to believe in myself and the potential of creating clean, eco-friendly environments. Before the Fellowship, I thought it would be hard to scale a business like mine because I worried people would doubt the possibility of maintaining sustainability while growing. But now, I’ve seen how connecting with like-minded people, finding the right resources, and building relationships can help a venture and a community thrive.
What advice would you give to future students thinking about applying to REEF@UD?
Go for it with everything you’ve got! Don’t let doubts hold you back—your perspective and ideas are what make you stand out. Stay curious, ask bold questions, and approach every challenge with an open mind. The Fellowship isn’t just about learning—it’s about building connections and experiencing growth you never expected. So polish your application, let your passion shine, and take the leap. You’ve got this!
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience or your venture?
I think it’s so important to foster connection within the Fellowship. Imagine what we could accomplish if we focused less on competition and more on collaboration. Ventures can support and enhance each other in incredible ways if we lean into that mindset. Teaching students how to organize, collaborate, and grow together would make the experience more meaningful, impactful, and sustainable—not just for our ventures, but for our shared future.
About Horn Entrepreneurship
Horn Entrepreneurship serves as the creative engine for entrepreneurship education and advancement at the University of Delaware. Currently ranked among the best entrepreneurship programs in the US, Horn Entrepreneurship was built and is actively supported by successful entrepreneurs, empowering aspiring innovators as they pursue new ideas for a better world.
