Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship

06/03/2026

44 local entrepreneurs are now closer than ever to long-term economic self-sufficiency through entrepreneurship thanks to the Dragon Launch Philly program! 🐉

This initiative represents more than just business training; it showcases the Close School’s deep ties to the local entrepreneurial ecosystem and Drexel’s unwavering commitment to bettering the Philadelphia community. By opening our doors and resources to local founders, we are ensuring that the city’s economic future is built from the ground up.

Support from The Coca-Cola Company in North America to UPBI led to the initiative’s expansion to the Close School and the establishment of Dragon Launch Philly. Inspired by the upcoming World Cup 26, Coca-Cola provided additional support to UPBI to expand into tournament host cities, helping make this impactful program possible.

This valuable partnership elevates Philadelphia’s wider community as we prepare to welcome fans from around the world. Thank you to our partners and the incredible Dragon Launch Philly participants for making this a resounding success!

Read more here: https://www.lebow.drexel.edu/news/building-phillys-future-dragon-launch-philly-completes-phase-one

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06/01/2026

As Philadelphia prepares to host matches for the global tournament in 2026, Saphead Studios is bringing its new game to the streets! ⚽️🎮

By refurbishing classic arcade cabinets, these Drexel student-developers are making "PhillyBall" accessible to fans all over the city this summer. From food-inspired power-ups to maps featuring iconic Philly spots, they’re proving that the best way to celebrate our city is through unique innovation and some friendly competition!

Check out our latest feature on how Drexel students are building the future of gaming here in Philly: https://www.lebow.drexel.edu/news/goal-drexels-saphead-studios-brings-phillyball-local-sports-bars

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05/28/2026

Our inaugural Investor-in-Residence program is in full swing and we want to ensure you’re taking advantage of the direct line this creates to the venture capital world!

Empactful Capital isn’t just a name on the door; they are a leading healthcare investment firm bringing real expertise in value-based care and behavioral health straight to the Drexel community.

Don’t miss the chance to connect with Sal De Trane, Megan Snyder, and Eleni Kytzidis for any questions or curiosities you might have. Reach out to book a session!

We’re excited to continue seeing our students and founders leverage this partnership to scale their ventures. Don't miss your chance to tap into this valuable resource, only available here at Drexel!

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05/22/2026

We’re bridging Philly innovation and global empowerment through HER Lab 🐉

Following a successful pilot, Drexel University’s Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship has once again partnered with the Global Give Back Circle to deliver an intensive Entrepreneurship and Business Case Pitching Course. This year, the program doubled its impact, equipping 100 rural young women (grown from 50 in the pilot) at HER Lab in West Pokot, Kenya, with the tools to break through systemic economic and gender barriers.

Guided by Close School Professor Ozlem Gonul, PhD, the initiative brought the "Drexel Blueprint" to life through a tailored curriculum taught by two incredible Drexel representatives: third-year economics major Chloe Mshana and recent Close School alumna Lasya Tarini. From mastering the Business Model Canvas to integrating sustainable Circular Economy principles, these emerging founders spent 13 weeks transforming raw business concepts into market-ready ventures.

The program culminated in a high-stakes pitch competition where local, women-owned startups took center stage.

As Linda Latsko Lockhart, Founder and CEO of Global Give Back Circle, shared: “Learning how to pitch your business ideas with confidence and get financial backing does not come naturally. This partnership gives them the edge.”

At the Close School, we believe entrepreneurship is a powerful vehicle for change. By teaching these resilient young women how to pitch with clarity and conviction, we aren't just supporting individual businesses; we are investing in leaders who will lift their communities as they rise.

Read the full feature here: https://www.lebow.drexel.edu/news/her-lab-returns-empowering-female-entrepreneurship-kenya

Drexel's Close School taught entrepreneurship to 100 women at Kenya's HER Lab, an economic empowerment program through Global Give Back Circle.

05/21/2026

What happens when founder stress begins to ripple through an entire organization?

In his article for Psychology Today, Close School Associate Dean for Academic Partnerships and Assistant Teaching Professor Damian Salas reveals why employees often recognize the signs of executive burnout before the founders themselves do. He breaks down why proactively supporting founder mental health isn't just about personal wellness; it's a critical business infrastructure required for long-term organizational success.

Read the full article here: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/pioneering-perspectives-on-workplace-mental-health/202511/how-employees-detect-founder-burnout

Your team knows you're struggling before you do. They're watching your patterns—and your best people may already be planning their exit.

05/19/2026

The recent feature in Drexel University’s 40 Under 40 highlights the impressive duo of Garrett Gillin and Jon Vogel, who co-founded their startup, 215 Marketing, right from Close School's Baiada Institute for Entrepreneurship.

Having started as a venture within Baiada, the company’s evolution shows the impact of a strong incubator foundation. The article details how the founders transitioned from a student-led startup to managing a sophisticated digital marketing and media operation. By leveraging strategic technical expertise and a focus on measurable results, the company has established itself as a significant player in the regional media sphere!

This recognition serves as a powerful reminder of how early-stage support at Drexel translates into long-term commercial success and industry influence. A huge congratulations to co-founders Garrett Gillin and Jon Vogel!

Read the full piece: https://drexelmagazine.org/story/40-under-40-2026/

05/18/2026

Hey, Drexel entrepreneurs! Seeking to secure funding, scale your ventures, and expand your professional networks? Take a look at these opportunities:

🐉 2026 Innovation in Women's Health Pitch (Deadline: May 18, 2026) Designed specifically for founders in the women’s health sector. This platform provides specialized mentorship, investor connections, and growth resources to scale health-tech and wellness innovations. Apply here: https://www.f6s.com/2026-innovation-in-womens-health-pitch/apply?action=linkClicked&version=us_2026_05_11&source=email&template=fresh_funding_us§ion=programs&linkType=apply&linkText=apply&utm_campaign=website&utm_medium=email&utm_source=sendgrid.com

🐉 LionCage 2026 (Deadline: May 29, 2026) An electrifying series of six regional pitch competitions across Greater Philadelphia. Running through October, this series serves as the pipeline to the ultimate startup showdown, offering regional exposure and competitive funding. Apply here: https://lioncage.greatvalleylaunchbox.com

🐉 Global Solutions Lab (Deadline: June 1, 2026) A premier week-long collaborative program focused on developing entrepreneurial solutions aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Participants present directly to leaders from the UN, corporations, and NGOs, with winning solutions published globally. Apply here: https://newworld-game.org/global-register

See if you're eligible and submit your applications ahead of the upcoming deadlines.

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05/05/2026

Philly Tech Week 2026 is here! 🔔

This year is extra special as we celebrate America 250 with a focus on "Tech for the People."

Whether you’re a founder, a student, or just tech-curious, there is something for you.

Get your ticket today: https://www.phillytechweek.com/

05/05/2026

Burnout isn’t always a sudden crash; it’s "ex*****on friction." It’s the subtle, lethal slowing of your decision-making that happens months before you feel "done."

In his piece for Psychology Today, Associate Dean Damian Salas breaks down The Recovery Gap: the single most accurate predictor of your capacity.

Read More: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/pioneering-perspectives-on-workplace-mental-health/202601/the-recovery-gap-your-bounce-back-is

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High performance is a game of recovery, not just effort. Stop tracking your mood and start tracking your "friction" to detect burnout six months before it hits the boardroom.

04/24/2026

Join us for the 5th Annual Inclusive Impact Day, a day-long symposium dedicated to the intersection of business and societal impact.

Drexel’s LeBow College of Business is bringing together visionaries, experts, and student innovators for a full day of growth and connection.

What to expect:

🌟 Keynote Speaker: Vinod O. Menezes, President and CEO of Atlantic Subsea, Inc., sharing insights on leadership in the defense and energy markets.

🌟 Entrepreneur Panel: A deep dive into delivering on purpose while navigating today’s market, moderated by Jabari Jones '16.

🌟 Specialized Workshops: Master the “Legal Foundations for Startup Success” with Greenberg Traurig LLP and learn “How to Get Found on Google” with Mango Marketing Co.

🌟 Student Fast Pitch: Watch Drexel students pitch their business ideas for a safer, greener society in 2 minutes or less for a chance at cash prizes.

🌟 Business Fair: Shop and network with local Philly-area entrepreneurs and student-run businesses.

Whether you’re an aspiring founder or a seasoned professional, this event offers the tools and community to help your venture make a lasting difference.

Save your spot today, https://www.lebow.drexel.edu/event/2026/05/07/5th-annual-inclusive-impact-day-innovate-all-entrepreneurship-purpose

Inclusive Impact Day 2026 explores the societal impact of entrepreneurship through keynote talks, panels, workshops, a fast pitch competition and business fair.

04/23/2026

Did you know that philanthropy and business intersect?

Damian Salas, assistant teaching professor and associate dean of academic partnerships at the Close School, was interviewed by WHYY and NPR about the influx of volunteers around the holiday season.

He emphasized the important role of business and marketing in volunteering efforts, sharing valuable insights on strategic philanthropy and volunteering - a cause he feels close to. Learn more about his work in social impact. Read the full article and learn more about Professor Salas’s social impact background.

Read more here: https://startersreview.com/the-ginger-rule-leading-with-empathy/

04/22/2026

"Don't be afraid to aim higher." 🚀

That was the overarching takeaway for Garrett Johnson '26 and his cohort during the Close School's New York City immersion trip. Over three days, our students toured four distinct organizations to see exactly what it takes to fund, scale, and pivot a business in a global market.

Highlights included:

🔹 Newlab: Exploring deep tech in the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

🔹 GarageCo Holdings: Learning the "Acquisition Entrepreneurship" playbook from a Drexel alum.

🔹 JVP Margalit: Looking at the ecosystem through the lens of Venture Capital.

🔹 Start 2 Group: Navigating the path for international startups entering the US.

The result? New networks, refined career paths, a firsthand look at the "EQ" required to lead!

Read more about their experience here: https://f.mtr.cool/ftlnlmawbz

Drexel students turned theory into reality during an immersion trip, visiting founders and investors to see how ventures truly build, fund and scale.

04/22/2026

"Don't be afraid to aim higher." 🚀

That was the overarching takeaway for Garrett Johnson '26 and his cohort during the Close School's New York City immersion trip. Over three days, our students toured four distinct organizations to see exactly what it takes to fund, scale, and pivot a business in a global market.

Highlights included:

🔹 Newlab: Exploring deep tech in the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

🔹 GarageCo Holdings: Learning the "Acquisition Entrepreneurship" playbook from a Drexel alum.

🔹 JVP Margalit: Looking at the ecosystem through the lens of Venture Capital.

🔹 Start 2 Group: Navigating the path for international startups entering the US.

The result? New networks, refined career paths, a firsthand look at the "EQ" required to lead!

Read more about their experience here: https://f.mtr.cool/vjdmwyptyy

The Close School of Entrepreneurship recently had a Spring Break immersion trip to New York City where student founders could network and engage with industry leaders in one of the largest business capitals in the world.

04/16/2026

As Engagement Manager at United Effects Ventures (UEV), Lasya is at the forefront of the Philadelphia startup scene. Her journey to UEV defines the "proactive opportunity-finding" taught at the Close School!

Swipe through ➡️ to see Lasya’s top 3 pieces of advice for fellow Dragons and founders!

Read her Q & A here: https://startersreview.com/architecting-entrepreneurship-a-conversation-with-lasya-tarini-25/

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04/15/2026

Thank you to everyone who donated, shared, and cheered us on for Drexel Giving Day!

The Close School officially finished #1 on the Schools and Colleges Leaderboard with 43 donors, nearly 2x the participation of the next runner-up. We also secured a spot as one of the top 2 schools for total funds raised!

A huge shoutout to our challenge donors for leading the charge and amplifying the impact for our student entrepreneurs.

Your gifts ensure that the Close School remains a hub where bold ideas become reality!

04/15/2026

This is what momentum looks like 🐉 Our community is showing up in a big way!

Let’s keep it up and hit our next milestone together: The Race to Midnight.

For the final hours of Giving Day, Drexel is unlocking one last challenge, giving each area a final chance to compete for bonus funds. When the clock strikes midnight, the top five areas on the leaderboard will each unlock an extra $1,000!

Gift NOW! https://givingday.drexel.edu/forms/Close

04/15/2026

We are SO close to our goal! 🚀

We’ve spent the day celebrating our student founders, from innovators to social impact leaders. Now, we need YOU to help us cross the finish line.

Your donation to the Close School isn't just a gift, it's an investment in the "Entrepreneurial Mindset" that our world needs right now. Let’s show the University what the Close School community can achieve in these final hours. 🐉

Make your impact before midnight! https://givingday.drexel.edu/forms/Close

04/14/2026

Closer and closer. Help us unlock the next challenge and maximize your impact!

The Geltzer Family Foundation Challenge: When we reach 75 gifts, an additional $2,500 will be unlocked for the Close School!

Gift NOW! https://givingday.drexel.edu/forms/Close

04/14/2026

We’re gaining momentum, but we’re not at our 75 gifts goal yet!

Every gift pushes us closer to unlocking more funds for the Close School and supporting entrepreneurship.

Help us reach the Halfway Point Challenge! When 45 gifts are made, another $1,250 will be contributed by Jackie and Stan Silverman.

Let’s crush this, be part of the push.

Gift NOW! https://givingday.drexel.edu/forms/Close

04/14/2026

Let's keep going with our next challenge!

25 Faculty, Staff & Friends Challenge: If 25 Close School supporters, we’ll unlock an additional $1,250 by Jackie and Stan Silverman!

Gift NOW: https://givingday.drexel.edu/forms/Close

04/14/2026

Ready for the first challenge of the day?

Young Alumni Challenge: When we reach 15 young alumni gifts, Logan Levenson & Argyle Interactive will unlock $1,500 for the Close School!

Every gift gets us closer. Be the reason we hit this milestone.

Support the Close School! Gift now: https://givingday.drexel.edu/forms/Close

04/14/2026

It’s Giving Day! The world needs more resilience, more creativity, and more bold entrepreneurial solutions. Every dollar donated to Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship empowers our student entrepreneurs!

Ready for a challenge? Today is packed with exciting opportunities to unlock bonus funds for the Close School!

⭐ 15 Young Alumni Challenge: Logan Levenson & Argyle Interactive will contribute $1,500!

⭐ 25 Faculty, Staff & Friends Challenge: If 25 Close School supporters, we’ll unlock an additional $1,250 by Jackie and Stan Silverman!

⭐ Halfway Point Challenge: When 45 gifts are made, another $1,250 will be contributed by Jackie and Stan Silverman!

⭐ The Geltzer Family Foundation Challenge: When we reach 75 gifts, an additional $2,500 will be unlocked for the Close School!

Join the movement. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference.

Gift NOW: https://secureia.drexel.edu/s/1683/form/16/form.aspx?sid=1683&gid=2&pgid=477&cid=1122&dids=13&appealcode=EMLCGPER23&bledit=1

04/09/2026

Please join us in congratulating Close School Professor Robert Morier on receiving the 2024-2025 Schulze Publication Award from the Entrepreneurship & Innovation Exchange (EIX)!

His article, “Why Lifeguards Make the Best Founders and CEOs,” took home the top honor in the Theory and Research Category.

Rob’s work explores a powerful concept: The Lifeguard Mindset. He argues that the vigilance and split-second decision-making skills learned on the lifeguard stand are the secret ingredients for executive success. It’s about more than just managing a business—it’s about scanning the horizon for the "rip currents" of the market before they hit. 🌊

This recognition highlights the world-class thought leadership our faculty bring to the Drexel community every day.

Want to lead like a lifeguard? Check out the full article: https://eiexchange.com/content/why-lifeguards-make-the-best-founders-and-ceos

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04/03/2026

The Impact Innovation Hub at the Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship has officially concluded its 2025-2026 program cycle. Following months of intensive workshops, mentorship, and venture development, our student innovators delivered their final presentations this week.

The IIH empowers Drexel students to develop market-based solutions for the world’s most pressing social and environmental issues, with all projects aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

We are incredibly proud of the progress made by this year’s cohort, from advancements in med-tech and mental health to environmental sustainability. Congratulations to all our participants for their dedication to building a better future.

Interested in joining the next cohort? Applications for 2026 open this spring. Stay tuned for updates.

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