
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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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. -
Exciting Opportunities for Student Entrepreneurs This Spring 2025
February 03, 2025 | Written by Horn EntrepreneurshipSpring 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. -
Supporting Student Entrepreneurs
December 19, 2024 | Written by Ken MammarellaUD Horn Entrepreneurship receives transformative gift from Stanford family to support Summer Founders program