EVENT OVERVIEW

OVERVIEW

OUR MISSION

C1-DSU Innovation Venture bridges Ag-Tech, innovation and entrepreneurship, connecting students, industry leaders and emerging technologies. By fostering collaboration and driving excellence, the summit seeks to inspire and advance the future of agribusiness in the U.S.

Our Origin Story

Innovation Venture is a groundbreaking national summit co-designed by Capital One and Delaware State University’s College of Agriculture, Science & Technology (CAST). This event brings together HBCUs, agriculture and technology leaders, and innovators to revolutionize the future of agriculture through emerging technology.

In 2022, DSU CAST received a prestigious USDA designation as a Center of Excellence in Emerging Technology, underscoring its role in advancing AI and tech-driven solutions in agriculture.

As a key partner of Capital One in Delaware, this recognition sparked a natural synergy—aligning DSU’s commitment to innovation with Capital One’s expertise in digital access and rural strategy. Together, we built the foundation for a national convening where students, particularly from HBCUs and 1890 Land-Grant Institutions, can showcase cutting-edge AI prototypes that enhance agribusiness and drive entrepreneurship.

Innovation Venture is more than a competition—it’s a launchpad. Student innovators are paired with a pre-accelerator to refine their AI-driven prototypes, strengthen their business models, and master their presentation skills through technical assistance. With $225,000 in seed funding at stake, winning teams transition into a post-accelerator program designed to help them scale their ideas into viable, market-ready products. Through mentorship, business structuring and intellectual property guidance, these students don’t just build startups—they build the foundation for generational wealth.

By bridging academia, industry, and technology, Innovation Venture is shaping the next generation of tech-driven agribusiness leaders.

In-Person Tickets Are No Longer Available.

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Our Sponsors

PRESENTING PLATINUM SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR