Get ready to celebrate creativity, big ideas, and entrepreneurial energy at the University of Delaware’s Blue Hen Innovation Fest on December 4. This dynamic event brings together UD students, alumni, and community members to connect, collaborate, and showcase their ventures. Whether you’re launching a startup, supporting fellow innovators, or simply curious about the future of entrepreneurship, this is the place to be!
Event Highlights:
Taking place at the Atrium & Audion on UD’s STAR Campus, Blue Hen Innovation Fest brings together an energetic lineup of panels, showcases, and pitch competitions:
3:30 p.m. Chap Tyler Executive Leadership Lecture: High Stakes Negotiating, the tools and mindset needed for success!
Start the day with a talk with UD alumnus Brian Feuer, former Global Head of Portfolio Management at McKinsey & Company. Brian will share insights from two decades leading global investments, negotiations, and crisis management across venture, private equity, and public markets..
5:00 p.m. Innovation Showcase
Dive into the creative projects of UD’s student entrepreneurs at the Innovation Showcase. Here, attendees can interact with the next generation of innovators as they share their visions, products, and ideas. It’s a great chance to offer feedback and connect with budding entrepreneurs just starting their journey.
6:00 p.m. Honor Circle of Innovators Recognition
Help us honor the exceptional innovators who have made an impactful contribution to Delaware’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. These honorees have been recognized by their peers and networks for their dedication to building an inclusive and dynamic community.
6:25 p.m. Hen Hatch Final Round
Experience the thrill of Hen Hatch, UD’s renowned startup funding competition. Top student teams will pitch their business ideas to an expert panel, competing for over $50,000 in cash and prizes. Watch these young entrepreneurs bring their ventures to life, vying for support and feedback from experienced judges and potential investors.
7:35 p.m. Blue Hen 17&43 Most Promising Awards
Join Horn Entrepreneurship and the Lerner College of Business & Economics as they recognize this year’s Blue Hen 17&43 Most Promising award winners. Celebrating the early-stage startups founded or led by UD alumni, this prestigious accolade honors the entrepreneurial spirit that defines UD’s legacy.
8:10 p.m. Networking Reception & 8:45 p.m. Award Ceremony
Wrap up the evening with a chance to connect with fellow attendees at the Networking Reception, followed by an inspiring Award Ceremony recognizing the winners and honorees of the day.
Practical Details: Complimentary parking is available in the STAR Tower Parking Lot, making it easy to join us for the day.
Tickets: General admission tickets are $50 and include 2 drink tickets. Student tickets are $20 and include 1 drink ticket. There is a virtual option for guests who are not able to travel. Registration is online.
Come celebrate the spirit of innovation that fuels the Blue Hen community and discover the future of entrepreneurship. We can’t wait to see you at Blue Hen Innovation Fest—together, let’s create a brighter, more innovative tomorrow!
About Horn Entrepreneurship
Horn Entrepreneurship is the driving force behind entrepreneurship education and innovation at the University of Delaware. Consistently ranked as one of the top entrepreneurship programs in the United States, it was founded and continues to be supported by accomplished entrepreneurs. The program empowers aspiring innovators, equipping them with the skills and resources needed to bring their ideas to life and create positive change in the world.
