The Division of Business and Economics at Morehouse College recently hosted the Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation Start-Up Competition, an event designed to bring together students, educators, entrepreneurs, and leaders in venture capital to explore pathways toward innovation, venture creation, and long-term wealth generation. Centered on the theme “The Morehouse Legacy: Empowerment and Wealth Generation through Education, Innovation and Venture Creation,” the gathering reflected the College’s continued commitment to preparing students not only to participate in the economy, but to help shape it.
Throughout the event, the atmosphere carried a sense of purpose and collaboration as students from both Morehouse College and participating high schools presented original business concepts before a panel of judges. The competition also created space for broader dialogue on the role of entrepreneurship in addressing economic disparities. Panel discussions brought together leaders in business, finance, and education to examine the structural barriers that many emerging entrepreneurs face, particularly those related to access, funding, and mentorship. Conversations explored how these challenges intersect with opportunity, and how targeted support systems can help close gaps while fostering sustainable business development.
Participants had the opportunity to engage with a range of distinguished voices, including SherRhonda Gibbs, Ph.D., Dean of the Division of Business and Economics at Morehouse College, Vincent E. Mangum, Ph.D., Visiting Professor of Entrepreneurship, and Grant Warner, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Center of Black Entrepreneurship. Additional insights were shared by Melvin Coleman, President and CEO of the Atlanta Black Chambers, and Todd Leverette, Managing Partner at Apis & Heritage Capital Partners. Entrepreneurs and industry leaders including Bruce Berger, Rod Batiste, Ernie Anderson, Lauren Levins, Terrence Hight, Charmain Gibbs-West, and Aviel Ahdam also contributed to the dialogue, offering perspectives shaped by experience across sectors.
The event featured panels that examined topics such as the wealth gap and its impact on underfunded and over mentored entrepreneurs, as well as the psychological and cultural factors that can influence business success. Guiding the flow of the program were student hosts Jabari Hayes and Ayana Ashanti Askew, whose leadership helped shape the tone of the event and maintain engagement across sessions. The program concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing standout student ventures and honoring the work of participants who demonstrated excellence in both concept and execution.
By convening students, faculty, and industry leaders in one space, the SENT Start-Up Competition continues to serve as a platform where ideas are tested, connections are formed, and future entrepreneurs are inspired to think critically about innovation and impact. The event reflects the Division of Business and Economics’ broader mission to cultivate leaders who are prepared to build ventures that not only succeed in the marketplace, but also contribute to meaningful economic and social progress.