The Langston University School of Business, in collaboration with Howard University and its HU x PNC National Center for Entrepreneurship, will host a two-day Entrepreneur Summit on April 17–18, 2025, at the university’s Langston Campus.

This free summit will bring together students, entrepreneurs, community leaders and motivated citizens to explore how entrepreneurship can drive economic development in underserved urban and rural communities–including Oklahoma’s 13 historic Black towns.

The HU x PNC National Center for Entrepreneurship is a national model in advancing Black business excellence. Dr. Daryl Green, dean of the School of Business, hopes the expertise they bring to the summit will help give people the knowledge they need to make a positive economic impact in their communities.

“Our communities are filled with talent, innovation and vision,” Dr. Green said. “But we must bridge the gap between resources and reality. This summit is the first step in making Langston a launchpad for such an impact.”

The first day of the summit will focus on Langston University’s campus community, showcasing the talents of student entrepreneurs, faculty and local business leaders. Entrepreneurs will meet with students and speak to classes, and the first day will end with a Student Pitch Competition where five LU students will present their business ideas for a chance to win $3,000 in cash prizes.

The second day is designed with the community in mind with the intention of bringing elected officials and local leaders, venture capitalists and motivated citizens together to listen, connect and collaborate. There will be a panel discussion titled “Rebuilding Black Economic Power: The Next Black Wall Street” with opportunities for open community engagement and conversation.

The goal for the summit is to create a blueprint for action. Dr. Green sees this event as a first step toward long-term collaboration between institutions, businesses and communities.

“We’re not just talking about economic empowerment—we’re building the platform for it,” Dr. Green said. “Langston University is stepping forward as a space where innovation, culture and economic justice intersect.”

The Entrepreneur Summit is free and open to the public, but an RSVP is requested. RSVP’s can be made to Mrs. Barbara Young at barbara.young@langston.edu or via phone at 405-654-9868. The panel discussion will be held in the Allied Health Building Room 105 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided.