Howard University (HU) and the PNC National Center for Entrepreneurship gathered Black business owners from across the country, investors and student entrepreneurs from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) for three days of programming and inspiration.
The 2026 HBCU Entrepreneurship Empowerment Summit (June 24-26) offered panels, workshops and networking opportunities and connected students with peers, mentors, established founders and investors all with the goal of enriching participants in effective business strategies that lead toward entrepreneurial growth.
In its fourth year, the conference— held this year under the theme “Securing Our Place in the Future”— furthers the work and mission of Howard University and the PNC National Center for Entrepreneurship, a national consortium and resource hub based at the HU School of Business.
“This summit reflects our continuing commitment to supporting entrepreneurs with the tools, insights, and connections they need to thrive,” Dr. Johnny Graham, national executive director of the Howard University and PNC National Center for Entrepreneurship, said in a statement. “For students, faculty, and experienced and new founders, this conference will provide the connections, capital, and conversations needed to ensure that entrepreneurs are not just participants in the innovation economy but are leading it.”
Since its official launch in April 2023, the center has worked with 83 HBCUs, engaged more than 7,500 participants and awarded more than $800,000 in funding to students, faculty, staff, and entrepreneurs. The student pitch competition as part of the Empowerment Summit continues that work, offering the winner $10,000 in grant money to continue work toward their business and entrepreneurial development.
“Helping to expand access and opportunity is part of what community impact means to us at PNC,” said Stacy Juchno, PNC chief corporate responsibility officer, in a statement. “When we help entrepreneurs succeed, we make positive impact in our communities, through job creation and small business expansion. We’re proud to support this work.”
