Stories & Updates

On February 26, 2025, more than 200 high school students from across the mid-Atlantic gathered at Rutgers University for the 2025 EntreX Regional Venture Showcase. These aspiring entrepreneurs pitched their startup ideas to a panel of expert judges, competing for $500 and a spot to compete in Diamond Challenge finals at the prestigious 2025 Limitless World Summit.

Mark your calendars! The University of Delaware's prestigious Siegfried Fellows Program is set to open applications on Saturday, March 1, 2025. This highly selective, 10-month immersive experience is designed for ambitious student leaders looking to elevate their skills and make a meaningful impact.

Horn Entrepreneurship is now accepting applications for its annual awards and scholarships, offering more than $10,000 in cash and Venture Development Center credit. These awards recognize innovative and entrepreneurial undergraduate students from all majors at the University of Delaware.

No two days look the same for Horn team member Jaime Leeand that’s exactly what makes the work so exciting for her. With a background in biomedical engineering and a career path that’s anything but traditional, she’s embraced change at every turn. In this Q&A, Jaime shares insights on her journey, passions, and the unexpected experiences that have shaped her path.

A friend of alumna and entrepreneur Daphne Vantine, 2019 alumna Rachel Heim and her venture, Vanilla Joe & Co., are the next feature in our series featuring alumni. Vanilla Joe & Co. is candle shop that caters to dog lovers.

Our first feature in the series focuses on Daphne Vantine, a 2018 graduate of the University of Delaware. She majored in Entrepreneurship with a minor in Integrated Design. In her undergrad she was heavily involved in VentureOn and was also a Horn Ambassador. Beyond her artistic endeavors, Daphne enjoys thrifting and supporting local small businesses like her own.

Our faculty are always on the move. Last summer, Dr. Laura Gasiorowski, Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship, captivated audiences at the Academy of Management Annual Conference in Chicago, IL, where she unveiled her research on how entrepreneurs’ responses during pitch Q&A sessions influence their chances of securing funding. We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Gasiorowski to dive deeper into her compelling findings.

Spring is the season of growth, and what better way to cultivate your entrepreneurial dreams than by taking advantage of the many opportunities available this semester? Whether you're new to entrepreneurship, have a startup idea, or are already scaling your venture, there's something for everyone. Here's a look at what’s in store for students this spring.

Meet Ms. Kay, the friendly and familiar face of the Venture Development Center (VDC) at Horn Entrepreneurship. With a background in travel and tourism from Thames Valley University in London and a passion for connecting with people, she brings a wealth of experience and warmth to her role as an Administrative Assistant and Advisor for a Minor in Entrepreneurship and Integrated Design.  From overseeing VDC operations to greeting students and guests with her signature smile, Ms. Kay plays an integral role in fostering the innovative and inclusive environment that defines Horn. In this Q&A, she shares insights into her journey, passions, and what makes the VDC such a special place.

The University of Delaware is set to host the inaugural UD Convening on Character Development on Friday, February 7, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Audion at STAR. This event aims to unite key campus stakeholders—including faculty, staff, administration, and student leaders—to advance initiatives focused on undergraduate character development. Registration is requested. Visit the event webpage for information on registration and agenda.