OUR PURPOSE
THE hbcu+ ENTREPRENEURSHIP conference
The HBCU+ Entrepreneurship Conference is dedicated to strengthening a robust academic entrepreneurial ecosystem, emphasizing culturally competent programming.
This conference provides attendees with the tools, networks, and knowledge to develop the entrepreneurial mindset and leadership skills essential for creating lasting legacies. This conference aims to inspire, connect, and empower participants to be impactful within their communities.
Join us for a transformative day that is more than just a conference – a celebration of HBCU excellence, collaboration, and the entrepreneurial spirit.
As an educational and entrepreneurial leader committed to advancing innovation and economic mobility, Bowie State University is proud to host the 5th Annual HBCU+ Entrepreneurship Virtual Conference on Friday, November 7, 2025.
This year’s theme, "Charting New Frontiers: Deep Tech, AI, and Innovation," will spotlight the groundbreaking ideas and entrepreneurial journeys of students, faculty, alumni across the ecosystem. The conference brings together HBCU leaders, innovators, industry experts, investors, and government officials for a full day of panel discussions, workshops, empowering the next generation of diverse entrepreneurs.
Last year, the virtual event drew over 900+ attendees from more than 147 participating institutions, with 67 being HBCUs. The experience featured 30+ speakers and we collaborated with the Tom Joyner Foundation and the White House Initiative on HBCUs. The conference has gained national recognition for fostering inclusive innovation, amplifying underrepresented founders, and building an entrepreneurial academic ecosystem.
900+
Annual Attendees
From HBCUs, industry, and academia nationwide
300+
Student Entrepreneurs
Supported through coaching and development
$140K+
Startup Funding
Distributed through pitch competitions and awards
We are honored to host an exceptional lineup of distinguished speakers and influential figures who are shaping the future of business and innovation. Their insights and experiences will inspire and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Leaders in Entrepreneurship & Media:
Daymond John
Investor on NBC’s Shark Tank and Founder of FUBU
Percy “Master P” Miller
CEO of Rap Snacks, Music Executive, and Entrepreneur
Tom Joyner
Media Personality, Entrepreneur, and Philanthropist
John Hope Bryant
Founder and CEO, Operation Hope
Rocsi Diaz
BSU Student, and Emmy Award-Winning Media Personality
Luke Lawal, Jr. (’11)
Entrepreneur, Founder and CEO of HBCU Buzz
Influential Business & Creative Minds:
Robert F. Smith
Entrepreneur, Investor, and Philanthropist
Pharrell Williams
Artist, Producer, Fashion Designer, Philanthropist, Entrepreneur
and Founder of Black Ambition
John W. Rogers
Chairman and CEO of Ariel Investments
Everette Taylor
CEO of Kickstarter
CONFERENCE LED BY ENTREPRENEURSHIP EXPERTISE
Johnetta Hardy
Conference Chair & Founder
Executive Director
Bowie State Entrepreneurship Innovation Center
Johnetta Hardy has created and led successful entrepreneurship initiatives and programs within higher education over the last two decades. Johnetta is a recognized thought leader in entrepreneurship education and, to date, has counseled over 3,000 businesses and helped secure over $25 million in loans and investments. In 2020, she launched Bowie State University’s HBCU Entrepreneurship Conference, and in 2021, she oversaw the opening of the $42 million Entrepreneurship Living Learning Community facility – the campus home of 500+ students, and Bowie State University’s Entrepreneurship Innovation Center.
