Deep Tech and AI Drive the Fifth HBCU+ Entrepreneurship Conference
The fifth annual HBCU+ Entrepreneurship Conference brought together students, educators and industry leaders for a full day of discussion focused on innovation and emerging technologies. Hosted by Bowie State University in the Entrepreneurship Innovation Center, the virtual event highlighted deep tech, artificial intelligence (AI) and new approaches to entrepreneurial growth.
The conference, powered by Wells Fargo, centered on the theme “Charting New Frontiers: Deep Tech, AI and Innovation.” More than 1,100 participants representing 117 colleges and universities joined the event, including 62 HBCUs. Terayle Hill, entrepreneur and television and film actor known for roles in TV series like Cobra Kai and All American, served as host and guided attendees through a series of panels, presentations and conversations.
Hill said he was honored to support the event. He reflected on how his experience at Clark Atlanta University shaped his early development and guides his work today.
“Being in the HBCU space is very near and dear to me. If it wasn’t for my HBCU, I don’t know where I would be right now,” he said. “I’m very grateful that Bowie State trusts me to be part of this conference. It aligns with what I do outside the entertainment industry.”
The program featured speakers from industry, investment groups and partner organizations who offered insights on building sustainable businesses. Sessions explored early-stage development and long-term growth in deep tech and AI.
Johnetta Hardy, executive director of the Entrepreneurship Innovation Center, praised the momentum that carried through panel sessions.
“This year’s conference was absolutely phenomenal. The energy, collaboration and innovation were off the charts,” she said.
Hardy described the entrepreneurial mindset as a defining strength across HBCU communities.
“Having an entrepreneurial spirit is about courage, creativity and community,” she said. “It means daring to dream beyond boundaries, solving problems with purpose and creating pathways not only for yourself but for others. It is the heartbeat of innovation and the essence of leadership at HBCUs.”
Hardy also shared her long-term vision for the event. She said the team plans to expand its reach to connect HBCUs with partners in academia, industry and government.
“My vision is for the HBCU+ Entrepreneurship Conference to grow from an annual gathering into a year-round platform for learning, collaboration and impact,” she said. “It is not just a conference. It is a national movement shaping the future of entrepreneurship, inclusion and innovation.”
Through the Entrepreneurship Innovation Center and initiatives like the HBCU+ Entrepreneurship Conference, Bowie State University continues to support students and community members who are working to turn ideas into real ventures. The university’s commitment to entrepreneurship helps strengthen the growing ecosystem of innovators, problem-solvers and leaders prepared to build lasting impact.
Bowie State University would like to thank the following sponsors and supporting partners:
Innovation Sponsor: Wells Fargo
Launch Sponsors: Google, Unlock, Bowie Business Innovation Center (Bowie BIC)
Supporting Partners:
Operation HOPE, Verizon, Babson College, Community Enterprise Investors, TEDCO, Maryland Innovation Initiative, NACCE (National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship), GCEC (Global Consortium for Entrepreneurship Centers), USASBE (United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship), Howard University & PNC National Center for Entrepreneurship, HBCUFI (HBCU Founders Initiative), HBCUniverse, HBCUVC (HBCU Venture Capital), MWBC (Maryland Women’s Business Center), University Startups, No Constraints Designs, LLC, Maryland Small Business Development Center, FourDeep Multimedia Group
