Innovation Center Highlights
Here are some highlights of recent activities hosted by the De Anza College Innovation Center.
Click the yellow buttons to watch video recordings of the events.
Fall 2024: Startup Boot Camp
The free, noncredit Boot Camp was led by Rowland Chen, Business instructor and CEO of Silicon Valley Laboratory Inc.
- Eight teams were selected from across the campus, including CSIS, BUS, ECON, and COMM majors.
- All ventures selected had an element of technology and innovation, with an emphasis on social and environmental benefits.
- Six mandatory in-person workshops were held in October, focusing on value proposition, business modeling, funding, team building and pitching.
- $750 in prize money was awarded. Congratulations to the winning teams!
Video: Nathan Gold's Tips
During the Boot Camp, renowned "pitch coach" Nathan Gold gave a talk on mastering the art of storytelling and pitching.
We thank our esteemed judges who joined us for the pitch event, and our generous sponsors for the prize money. For more information, contact Rowland Chen, chenrowland@deanza.edu
Faculty Spotlight: Rowland Chen
Business instructor Rowland Chen gave a special presentation on "Ethical Innovation
in AI" to students and faculty members in November 2024.
Past Speakers
Speaker: Catherine Lin
Catherine Lin has more than a decade of experience in advertising, specializing in online marketing of products and working with clients such as Apple and Cadillac. She is currently the associate design director at Leo Burnett, a leading global ad agency. She was formerly art director at Kettle, a premier ad agency that integrates technology and creativity.
Speaker: Kevin McClelland
Kevin McClelland is a financial adviser with over 30 years of experience. He is on the Board of the San Jose Chamber of Commerce and chairs the Small Business Committee. He has been honored as Business Advocate of the Year by the San Jose Chamber of Commerce and received a Star Award from the Cupertino Chamber of Commerce.