Stories & Updates

The latest recipients for Blue Hen 17&43 Most Promising Venture awards were announced at the first Blue Hen Innovation Fest. Theseawards are Horn Entrepreneurship and the Lerner College of Business & Economics' annual recognition of the University of Delaware's most promising early-stage startups.

Four teams competed in the final round of Hen Hatch, UD’s premier startup funding competition, and all four won thousands of dollars from a panel of judges – plus $2,500 for travel expenses to other competitions and often time with consultants.

With a career spanning three continents, Dr. Abayomi Akinboye brings a truly global perspective to entrepreneurship education. As an Assistant Professor at the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business & Economics, he leverages experiences from Nigeria, Malaysia, and New Zealand to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. We sat down with Dr. Akinboye to learn more about his journey.

Horn Entrepreneurship recently honored Dave Raymond with the 2024 Siegfried Award for Entrepreneurial Leadership and Nasir Young with the 2024 Student Award at a private dinner and award ceremony. The Siegfried Award for Entrepreneurial Leadership recognizes exceptional individuals who have not only shown themselves to be stewards of innovation through significant contributions to the leadership ecosystem, but have also made a significant positive impact on their communities and industries.

Calling all innovators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers! Get ready to celebrate creativity, groundbreaking ideas, and entrepreneurial spirit at the University of Delaware’s Blue Hen Innovation Fest on December 5. This exciting new festival is a unique opportunity for UD students, alumni, and community members to connect, collaborate, and showcase their entrepreneurial journeys. Whether you’re an aspiring founder, a seasoned innovator, or someone curious to learn more about the future of entrepreneurship, this event has something inspiring for everyone!

Effective leadership in the dynamic world of innovation and entrepreneurship is essential, driving both growth and creativity. At the heart of this leadership is the ability to lead oneself before guiding others. The Siegfried Fellows program is founded on this principle. Meet the 2024-2025 cohort of Siegfried Fellows.

Four teams advanced to the final round of Hen Hatch, UD’s premier startup funding competition, at the 2024 Blue Hen Innovation Fest on December 5. These finalists will compete to find out how much of the $50,000 prize pool will help them advance their ventures.

The Venture Development Center was packed Wednesday night for the 2024 Fall Pitch Party. The event, designed for students new to pitching, provided a stage for innovative ideas, a space for networking, and a showcase for student startups. Everyone who participated received a $20 gift card, while the top 3 received monetary prizes in recognition of their outstanding presentations and concept potential.