Celebrate Innovation & Entrepreneurship at UD
Join us for a day of inspiration, collaboration, and networking
Blue Hen Innovation Fest is an exciting new event dedicated to celebrating innovation and entrepreneurship at the University of Delaware and beyond. This vibrant festival brings together a diverse community of participants, from enthusiastic undergraduate students to ambitious young alumni to women creating value within the community, all eager to share their groundbreaking ideas and entrepreneurial journeys. Attendees can look forward to hearing inspiring pitches from early-stage startups, engaging in dynamic discussions, and exploring a variety of innovative projects that showcase the creativity and talent within our community. Join us for a day of inspiration, collaboration, and networking as we celebrate the spirit of innovation and the future of entrepreneurship!
Session Descriptions
Capital Catalysts: Women Funding the Future
Join us for this dynamic panel discussion spotlighting the influential role of women in venture capital, angel investing, intrapreneurship, and entrepreneurship. This engaging conversation will feature leading female investors and entrepreneurs sharing their insights, experiences, and strategies for driving funding toward women-led initiatives and businesses. The panelists will explore the challenges and opportunities in reshaping the investment landscape and discuss how women are catalyzing change to create a more inclusive and sustainable future. Attendees will gain valuable perspectives on navigating the world of finance and supporting the next wave of women innovators. Expert panelists include Holly Flanagan, Anne Shehab, Jennifer Rowland, and Jennifer Seibert.
Innovation Showcase
Explore the creative projects and startup ventures of University of Delaware students who are still exploring their entrepreneurial paths. The showcase provides a unique platform for aspiring student entrepreneurs, inventors, and innovators to present their work, share their ideas, and gain valuable feedback from a diverse audience of industry professionals, mentors, and peers.
Honor Circle Recognition
Join us in celebrating the newest inductees of the WE Hatch Honor Circle, a prestigious recognition that highlights the influential women driving a dynamic and equitable entrepreneurial community in Delaware and beyond. The Honor Circle honors women who empower each other and navigate the unique challenges faced by female innovators. Nominated by peers, colleagues, and loved ones, these honorees have made a lasting impact on their networks and communities. Read more about the amazing women being recognized in the 2024 Honor Circle.
Hen Hatch Final Round
Watch the final round of Hen Hatch, the University of Delaware's premier startup funding competition, as top student teams take the stage to pitch their business concepts to an expert panel of judges. Competing for a share of a $50,000+ prize pool, these entrepreneurial students will vie for startup cash and prizes, while seizing the opportunity to make valuable connections and get real-world feedback on their innovative ideas. Don't miss the excitement as they bring their ventures to life! Meet the Hen Hatch finalists.
Blue Hen 17&43 Most Promising Ventures
Join us as Horn Entrepreneurship and the Lerner College of Business and Economics proudly announce the prestigious recipients of the 2024 Blue Hen 17&43 Awards! This exciting annual accolade celebrates the University of Delaware’s legacy of entrepreneurship, leadership and innovation by honoring exceptional early-stage startups founded or led by Blue Hen alumni. Focused on the most promising new ventures, this year’s winners showcase the spirit of entrepreneurial excellence and bring a dynamic range of ideas, strategies, and solutions that enrich the UD entrepreneurial ecosystem. Don’t miss the chance to see these inspiring ventures and their impact on our community! Meet the 2024 Blue Hen Most Promising Ventures.
Meet the Hen Hatch Finalist Teams
Innovation Showcase Exhibitors
Dress Fragile
Hen Hatch Finalists will also be exhibiting.