Entrepreneurship Week 2026 April 20th - April 24th
Entrepreneurship Week is a collaboration of the Kutztown University College of Business, the Entrepreneurial Leadership Center (ELC), and the KU Small Business Development Center (SBDC). This event includes panels, workshops, and presentations that provides students and the local community with insights, strategies and tools from experts to launch or strengthen their business.
Kutztown University’s 2026 Entrepreneurship Week, is a dynamic celebration of innovation, leadership, and the entrepreneurial spirit. This year’s program showcases the power of innovation, the grit of student founders, the leadership of women entrepreneurs, and the transformative potential of community-driven ventures. Across panels and conversations, the program highlights how entrepreneurship fuels growth, fosters inclusion, and shapes the future of business and society. Whether you're launching your first idea or scaling your impact, this week is designed to inspire, connect, and empower.
The Future of Business: Innovation, Technology, and Growth
Monday, April 20th
Technology & AI Panel: 9-10:30 a.m. MSU 218
This session examines how emerging technologies and artificial intelligence are reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape. Technology leaders and founders will discuss practical pathways for small and medium-sized enterprises to adopt AI tools, data-driven systems, and automation. The discussion will emphasize how businesses can enhance productivity, improve customer engagement, and pursue innovation in a responsible and sustainable way.
- Munish Mungala, Agent23.AI
- Kryn McClain, CatapolloVR
- Xavier Shive-Sanchez, FunnelBridge.ai
- Hayden Craddolph, Cemboo
Innovation & Venture Growth Panel: 11-12:30 p.m. MSU 218
This session focuses on practical strategies for business expansion, access to capital, and building operational readiness. Panelists will share insights on lender expectations, financing options, legal considerations in scaling, managing risk, and how entrepreneurs can position their ventures for sustainable growth.
- Mark Rentschler, KU SBDC
- Michele L. Vervlied, Customs Bank
- Katherine D. Tohanczyn, Starfield & Smith, PC
- Scott Woodrow, Sustainable Waste Solutions
Student Startups Unleashed
Tuesday, April 21st
Student Entrepreneurs Panel: 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. de Francesco 201
KU student entrepreneurs share their personal journeys, lessons learned, and the support systems that have shaped their ventures. The discussion focuses on navigating the challenges of launching and sustaining a business while in college, from finding mentors to accessing resources and building networks.
Building Communities Through Entrepreneurship
Thursday, April 23rd
Women Entrepreneurs Panel: 10-11:30 a.m. MSU 218
This session features accomplished women founders and leaders who are shaping industries through innovation, resilience, and community leadership. Panelists will discuss entrepreneurial journeys, obstacles encountered, and strategies that support women's success in business.
- Mandy Siess, Let's Go Coffee
- Heather Heltzinger, Renegade Solutions
- Katie Kupstas, Innovators Club for Women
- Becca Spahr, Spahr Impact Group
Societal Impact Panel: 12-1:30 p.m. MSU 218
This session brings together leaders who are improving lives in their communities through community action, grassroots advocacy, mental health support, youth development, workforce training, and technology-driven empowerment. Panelists will explore how mission-driven organizations create pathways to economic mobility, address systemic inequities, and help individuals and families build stable and fulfilling lives.
- Larry Berringer, Bucks Community Action Program
- Kryn McClain, CatapolloVR
- Seleda Simmons, Real Deal 610
- Violet Emory, Tec Centro Berks (BLWDC)
KU SBDC WORKSHOPS
Throughout the week, the Kutztown University Small Business Development Center
(SBDC) will host practical workshops open to students, entrepreneurs, and community
members.
Check back for updates!