October 20, 2016

Drexel University's Startup Day encompasses Philadelphia's long-standing tradition of entrepreneurship and development. At Drexel's biggest entrepreneurship event of the year, we celebrate the innovative ideas of our city's entrepreneurs, while encouraging the next generation of starters. Startup Day is exciting, inspiring, and maybe a little overwhelming to students who have never experienced an event like this before! Don't worry. We'll walk you through what to expect at our feature events!

Connecting

Networking: a staple at most events, but especially important at Startup Day. You'll kick off the day by exploring the Entrepreneurship Expo, speaking to the many Drexel student organizations, Baiada Institute Incubator starters, and members of Philadelphia's entrepreneurship community who have set up booths.

If you can't make it to Expo, or if you don't complete the rounds before the speakers and the pitches begin, you can grab a drink and swap business cards during the Networking Happy Hour!

Pitch Perfect

There will be two pitch competitions at the event. During the Fast Pitch Competition, you have 60 seconds to pitch your idea to a panel of judges for the chance to win $1000! Even better, you don't have to register beforehand!

During the Baiada Institute Business Plan Competition, you'll watch Drexel starters compete head-to-head for residency at the Baiada Institute and over $25,000 worth of prizes for their startups!

Speakers

You'll also get to hear prominent members of Philadelphia's entrepreneurship community speak about their experiences and how they became entrepreneurs. Restaurateur and founder of several favorite Philly eateries, Nicole Marquis, will speak about the food industry and social entrepreneurship! Later in the afternoon, hear Eric Hahn, Chief Strategy Officer for the award-winning agency, Fame House, discuss the modern methods of digital marketing and merchandising.

You'll also have the opportunity to catch a live “Starter's Review” session moderated by Dean of the Close School, Dr. Donna De Carolis! This panel, featuring prominent women entrepreneurs, will speak about women and entrepreneurship in Philly.

At Startup Day, we aim to provide Drexel starters the knowledge, connections, and opportunities they need to succeed while they are still students. Let's get started. We look forward to seeing you there!

Sarah Temple, Communications, Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship