The 2026 Cardinal Challenge
The Brown-Forman Cardinal Challenge is the University of Louisville’s premier startup showcase, highlighting some of the most promising ventures from across the university. Hosted by the Forcht Center for Entrepreneurship in the College of Business, the competition brings together students, faculty and researchers who are building innovative ideas with real potential.
Participants have the opportunity to pitch their ventures, showcase their work and compete for funding and in-kind support to help take the next step in launching or growing their companies. More than a competition, the Cardinal Challenge is a chance to connect with mentors, funders and the broader innovation community.
LARRY HORN, Keynote Speaker
Our featured keynote speaker will be Larry Horn, Founder of Amplify Louisville. Larry Horn knows what it feels like to stand where you're standing. As a University of Louisville alumnus and 2011 Global Business Plan Champion, he's pitched the dream, sweated the feedback, and chased the funding. Previously, he started multiple venture-backed startups where he raised nearly $20M in investment capital. Today he channels that experience into building — as CEO of Donate Equity, President of Proximity Matters, Founder of High Fives (an AI strategy consultancy), and Founder & CEO (former) of Amplify Louisville.
Larry serves on the University of Louisville College of Business Advisory Board and was honored to be the 2025 UofL Alumni Ambassador of the Year — roles that reflect a genuine commitment to the ecosystem he grew up in. He also holds an Entrepreneur-in-Residence position at Louisville Water Company and serves on boards including VOA Mid-States, InBIA, and Actors Theatre of Louisville.
He's a builder, a connector, and a fierce believer that Louisville's best entrepreneurial chapter is still being written.