Venture Development
Activate Your Passion
Horn Entrepreneurship’s Venture Support and Commercialization programs provide a continuum of guidance and valuable resources to members of the UD community as they pursue new ideas for a better world, explore their professional interests and activate their passions.
The past year has been the most transformative of my life. Being immersed in a startup atmosphere, and developing a degree of expertise in the biotech space specifically, has been invaluable for both my personal and career growth.
Signature Programs
Solving societal problems
Big Ideas Challenge
Grants for STEM-based technologies
NSF I-Corps
12-week pre-accelerator program
Summer Founders
Mentorship, support and resources
VentureOn
Startup funding competition
Hen Hatch
Funding & training
Proof of Concept
guidance from industry professionals
ExpertConnect
Mentoring for startups
Venture Mentoring Service
International Students
International students on F-1 and J-1 visas are strongly encouraged to discuss any entrepreneurship, start-up, or volunteer opportunities with the Center for Global Programs and Services prior to accepting the position. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security restricts certain practical training options (whether paid or unpaid) for F-1 and J-1 students unless they have prior authorization from the government. Please note that even if an international student is not being paid or is volunteering, they may still require authorization.
If you are an F-1 or J-1 international student considering work, volunteering, self-employment, or start-up ventures (even if they are part of a class project or as part of your program of study), please contact an immigration advisor at OISS to discuss your options and requirements for maintaining status in the U.S. Additional information can be found on the OISS Employment page.
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2025 REEF@UD Fellows Shine at Demo Day
July 08, 2025 | Written by Horn EntrepreneurshipWith purpose-driven ventures, powerful storytelling, and a passion for solving environmental challenges, the 2025 Ratcliffe Eco Entrepreneurship Fellows (REEF@UD) took center stage at the fourth annual REEF@UD Demo Day, held on Monday, May 5 at the Venture Development Center. -
Innovation in Full Bloom at the 2025 Spring Pitch Party
April 24, 2025 | Written by Natalie KesslerOn Wednesday, April 23, UD’s Venture Development Center (VDC) was buzzing with energy, creativity, and big ideas as students took the spotlight at the annual Spring Pitch Party—this year themed “Ideas in Bloom.” Hosted by the Entrepreneurship Club and Horn Entrepreneurship, the event welcomed more than 80 students, alumni, and supporters for an evening of fast-paced pitching, community, and celebration. -
Building Businesses with Purpose: Davis Pfund’s Journey
March 31, 2025 | Written by Horn EntrepreneurshipMeet Davis Pfund—a Renewable Energy Professional, Social Entrepreneur, Community Builder, Event Producer, Visionary Artist, Multi-Instrumental Musician, and Avid Tree Hugger. With a passion for sustainability, social impact, and regenerative living, Davis has launched multiple ventures that combine entrepreneurship with a mission to create a better world.
