Pilot Venture Challenge 2026
The 2026 Pilot Venture Challenge, hosted by Jon Down and the Franz Center for Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation at the University of Portland, highlights student-created, launched, and managed ventures from across campus.
This competition showcases how experiential education translates into real business development. Students bring polished plans and live presentations that reflect months of work and iteration.
Join us on April 25, 2026, at Dundon-Berchtold Hall (DB), where attendees will hear team pitches, see business plans in action, and watch expert judges provide constructive feedback on strategy, market fit, and presentation.
Agenda & Room
9:00 am - Check-in and Coffee (DB 101)
9:30 am - Presentations (DB 133, DB 134, DB 135)
11:30 am - Lunch and Networking (DB 101, DB 102)
12:15 pm - Awards (DB 101)
12:30 pm - Reception and Networking (DB 101)
Whether you’re curious about early-stage ventures, mentoring student founders, or just interested in practical approaches to launching a business, this event offers clear, actionable takeaways from the people building businesses at the University of Portland.
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