UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Now in its seventh year, Penn State Startup Week powered by PNC will feature uniquely themed days with featured speakers, interactive events and late-night activities throughout the week. The fourth day of Startup Week, Thursday, March 23, is themed "Female Entrepreneurs of Color," with the following highlights:
Featured events:
"Trusting Yourself in the Uncertainty of Entrepreneurship," 11 a.m.–noon: Navigating the world of entrepreneurship presents a magnitude of challenges that many people aren’t able to handle. During this talk, therapist Kenya Crawford will explore walking in your purpose, managing your mental health and preventing burnout.
Ayeshah Abuelhiga – "An Entrepreneurs Journey," 2:45 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.: Join founder and CEO of Mason Dixie Foods Ayeshah Abuelhiga as she shares her journey from her parents’ soul food carryout restaurant kitchen in Baltimore to leading the fastest-growing frozen baked goods company in the United States.
Female Entrepreneurs of Color Roundtable Discussion, 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.: Join Ayesha Abuelhiga, Kenya Crawford, Prerana Dalal and Haley McClain Hill as they join forces to share their journeys as female entrepreneurs of color.
Featured pitch competition:
Engineering Design and Pitch Challenge, 6 p.m.–8 p.m.: Watch as students present their engineering projects to be judged on the content, quality of material, clarity, understanding of their project, and overall presentation at the Altoona LaunchBox Supported by the Hite Family.
After-hours event:
Concert – Corner Brothers and GoGo Retro at 3 Dots Downtown, 9 p.m.–midnight: Join us for the finale of the 2023 Penn State Startup Week powered by PNC. This event includes live music and comedy, with performances by the Corner Brothers, GoGo Retro, and Happy Valley Improv.
In addition, the Brazilian Munchies food truck will be parked at the back of the Eric J. Barron Innovation Hub from 11:30 am - 2:30 pm each day of Startup Week.
Be sure to view the full Startup Week schedule and register ahead of time for events.
About Penn State Startup Week powered by PNC
An integral part of the broader Invent Penn State initiative, Startup Week powered by PNC is a University-wide event that connects students with innovative alumni and pioneers who are achieving success in a variety of industries and disciplines. Throughout the week, students discover, explore, experience and celebrate entrepreneurship.
For more information on Startup Week, including a full schedule of events, visit startupweek.psu.edu. Participants can engage with and follow Startup Week on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.