Capital One Financial and Delaware State University hosted the Innovation Venture, a conference focusing on agribusiness, technology, and entrepreneurship, on the DSU campus in Dover, Delaware. The event brought together students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities and local schools to foster future leaders in agribusiness.
Tony Allen, President of Delaware State University, emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “Delaware State University is proud to continue our partnership with Capital One and provide a platform to elevate the next generation of tech-driven leaders in agribusiness.” He highlighted the benefits of mentorship and guidance provided to students, assisting them on their career paths.
The conference offered panel discussions on agribusiness and featured notable speakers, including Daymond John, James Lindsay, and Don Clifton. U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester supported the initiative: “Equipping the next generation with the tools they need to succeed is one of my top priorities.”
Innovation Venture included presentations from students and speeches from various officials, among them Lt. Gov. Kyle Evans Gay, who stated, “Agriculture is our largest industry in the First State, fueling both our economy and our ability to nourish families.”
Participants heard from several Delaware leaders across political and educational sectors. Former Sen. Tom Carper expressed his views, praising the event as a blend of education, entrepreneurship, and technology, which supports sustainable agricultural solutions.
Capital One’s history of collaboration with DSU includes significant investments, such as a $4.7 million facility donation for DSU’s Wilmington campus. Joe Westcott of Capital One commented, “Innovation Venture marks an exciting new chapter of our partnership with Delaware State University by bringing students’ ideas to life.”
The collaboration underscores efforts to strengthen links between education and industry, focusing on sustainable innovation in agriculture.