Dr. Jalaal Hayes, Ph.D.
Dr. Jalaal Hayes is redefining the future of clean energy. Born and raised in North Philadelphia, Dr. Hayes became a trailblazer at just 22, when he made history as Delaware State University’s youngest Ph.D. graduate. His dissertation on hydrogen storage systems wasn’t just academic—it became the foundation of cutting-edge solutions in renewable energy. Hydrogen, a clean and efficient energy source, is a game-changer for sustainability, and Dr. Hayes has dedicated his career to unlocking its potential.
Dr. Jalaal Hayes is redefining the future of clean energy. Born and raised in North Philadelphia, Dr. Hayes became a trailblazer at just 22, when he made history as Delaware State University’s youngest Ph.D. graduate. His dissertation on hydrogen storage systems wasn’t just academic—it became the foundation of cutting-edge solutions in renewable energy. Hydrogen, a clean and efficient energy source, is a game-changer for sustainability, and Dr. Hayes has dedicated his career to unlocking its potential.
Before this groundbreaking achievement, Dr. Hayes had already fast-tracked his way to success. Graduating from Lincoln University at just 18 with dual degrees, he then interned at NASA, where he deepened his knowledge of atmospheric chemistry and climate science. His work at the Center for Hydrogen Storage Research helped secure a U.S. patent and produced peer-reviewed publications that pushed the boundaries of hydrogen storage technology.
Key Dates to Remember:
Registration Deadline: March 12, 2026
Pre-Judging: April 2, 2026
Criteria
Delaware State University’s College of Agriculture, Science & Technology’s Innovation Venture challenges Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and colleges nationwide, middle and high school students, and community entrepreneurs to develop innovative technology prototypes inspired by the Genesis Mission.
The Genesis Mission leverages artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and advanced scientific research tools to accelerate discovery and solve complex challenges in energy, science, and national priorities.
Using this framework, participating teams are expected to develop AI-driven prototypes that help lead the next revolution of artificial intelligence. All participating teams will be coached through the Innovation Venture Accelerator leading up to the case competition.
Delaware State University’s College of Agriculture, Science & Technology’s Innovation Venture challenges Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and colleges nationwide, middle and high school students, and community entrepreneurs to develop innovative technology prototypes inspired by the Genesis Mission. The Genesis Mission leverages artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and advanced scientific research tools to accelerate discovery and solve complex challenges in energy, science, and national priorities.
Using this framework, participating teams are expected to develop AI-driven prototypes that help lead the next revolution of artificial intelligence. All participating teams will be coached through the Innovation Venture Accelerator leading up to the case competition.
Eligibility
- Middle & high school students
- College/University Students (undergrad and grad)
- Community entrepreneurs
Program Details & Schedule
Business Accelerator
Focus: In-person collaborative growth and professional development.
When: Thursdays, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM.
Where: The Garage at Bank of America.
Note: All sessions will be recorded for later review.
Tech Accelerator
- Focus: Virtual technical innovation and digital scale.
- When: Thursdays, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
- Where: Virtual (Link provided upon registration).
Note: All sessions will be recorded for later review.
Register for Innovation Venture Conference an HBCU AI Summit.
Innovation Venture 2.0 & HBCU AI Summit, powered by AWS, is the nation’s premier gathering dedicated to accelerating artificial intelligence education, research, and innovation across Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Our key objectives are to:
- Advance AI innovation across HBCUs through student-driven research, hands-on learning experiences, and cutting-edge technical exploration.
- Strengthen pathways to high-impact careers by connecting students with industry leaders, internships, research opportunities, and emerging roles within the AI ecosystem.
- Expand collaboration between academia, industry, and government to accelerate AI adoption, ethical development, and inclusive technology leadership.
- Promote equitable innovation by ensuring AI tools, research, and applications reflect the diversity and lived experiences of underserved communities.
- Build capacity for long-term AI leadership across HBCUs through faculty development, research partnerships, funding opportunities, and institutional strategy alignment.
