Oct. 2-4, 2026
Pioneer Weekend brings together student innovators to develop and pitch a business or non-profit plan.
It provides hands-on experience to practice skills critical to entrepreneurship and provides valuable feedback to your entrepreneurial endeavors.
Beginning with open mic pitches on Friday evening, students will bring in their best ideas and inspire others to join their team. Saturday, teams meet with Pioneer Weekend mentors and focus on customer development, validating their ideas, practicing LEAN Startup Methodologies, and designing a minimum viable product. On Sunday, teams pitch their innovations for a chance to win cash prizes.
Quick Overview
Friday evening:
- Bring a team, or form one at the kickoff
- Keynote speaker TAI DUNCAN ’04
- Overview of the event presented by the Wilson Center
- Brainstorming and team formation
Saturday afternoon:
- Teams mentored by BARB BAKER, TERRI BRADY ’79, KATHY CLEMONS-BEASLEY ’95, ROBERT GEHORSAM ’76
Sunday afternoon:
- Team pitch presentations
- Judges ANNE HARRIS, JC LOPEZ
- Awards Ceremony
Prizes
- 1st place team: $500 Per Member
- 2nd place team: $300 Per Member
- 3rd place team: $150 Per Member
Questions? View detailed schedule, competition rules, judging rubric, FAQ.
Register now!
Benefits of attending
Explore Entrepreneurship
Pioneer Weekend is all about learning through the act of creating. Don’t just listen to theory, build your own strategy, and test it as you go.
Build Your Network
This isn’t just a happy-hour. Pioneer Weekend attracts the community’s best makers and doers. By spending a weekend working on solving real-world problems, you will build long-lasting relationships and possibly walk away with a cool story that could lead to a job or a potential company.
Co-Founder Scouting
We all know it’s not just about the idea – it’s about the team. Pioneer Weekend is hands down the best way to find someone you can actually launch a startup with.
Learn From Professionals
Speak and learn from mentors with a wide variety of backgrounds. Master business and marketing strategies, with input and advice from the experts.
Hone New Skills
Step outside of your comfort zone. With a whole weekend dedicated to letting your creative juices flow, Pioneer Weekend is a perfect opportunity to test your entrepreneurial prowess.