Global Entrepreneurship & Innovation Workshop
Design Thinking + Entrepreneurship + Ethical AI
at College of the Holy Cross, 13-16 October, 2026 - 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Venue: Classroom TBD
Day 1 🌐
Define complex global problems using human-centered design approach
Day 2 ✨
Creative ideation and basics of business modeling
Day 3 🚀
Learn how to code using AI (no experience required) and debate on the ethics of AI computing
Day 4 🎤
Final solution design and pitch your idea with showing your AI prototype
4 Day Experiential Learning Workshop
About the Program
Over four immersive days, students will explore global entrepreneurship and innovation through Ycenter’s award-winning human-centered design framework. They will identify meaningful problems, develop ideas, and use AI-assisted “vibe coding” tools to turn those ideas into working prototypes—without needing a technical background. The program will also examine why the humanities, ethics, and responsible AI use are more important than ever as technology reshapes how we learn, create, and solve problems.
Top skills you acquire
Complex Problem Understanding and Breakdown
Human Centered Design
Creative Problem Solving
Building a Business Pitch for your BIG Idea
Responsible use of AI
Critical thinking, Empathy and Creativity in the world of AI
Additional benefits for participants
As part of our commitment towards creating a global ecosystem of entrepreneurs, innovators and change-makers, all participants will receive continued mentorship for their projects by our global leadership team beyond the workshop.
This program meets the workshop requirement for the Certificate in Entrepreneurship, Certificate in Social Entrepreneurship and Certificate in Social Action and Civic Leadership. Review Holy Cross certificate program details.
Who is this for?
Students with early-stage ideas, as well as those who want to learn more about entrepreneurship and design thinking to develop new ideas.
No prior experience required.
All learning and working materials will be provided.
Should be available to attend the event in person all 4 days.
Ciocca Center for Business, Ethics, and Society
The Ciocca Center for Business, Ethics, and Society and Donelan Office of Community-Based Learning, Teaching, and Engaged Scholarship at Holy Cross offer multiple pathways for students interested in gaining technical skills. A liberal arts education is most valuable in today’s world when students have opportunities to connect their classroom learning to real-world environments and problems.
Contact the Ciocca Center at business@holycross.edu
Contact the Donelan Office at donelanoffice@holycross.edu
Get A Verified
LinkedIn Certificate
Upon completing our program, Ycenter will provide participants with a verified certificate that can be showcased as a LinkedIn badge, highlighting your achievement and new skills. This badge not only enhances your professional profile but also signals to potential employers that you've gained valuable, hands-on experience in innovation, sustainability, design thinking and entrepreneurship. We will also showcase your project on our newly launched global repository of SDGs projects for additional growth and networking opportunities.
This program is part of our commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals - UN SDGS, What is that, exactly?
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
Check out pictures from previous program
Meet your Program Facilitator
Dhairya Pujara is an entrepreneur, educator, author, and venture advisor working at the intersection of innovation, technology, and human-centered problem-solving. He is the Founder and CEO of Ycenter, where he has developed award-winning entrepreneurship and innovation programs for universities and organizations across 30+ countries.
He is also the Founder of EPIC AI, an applied AI capability company, the author of the upcoming book Ants in the Room, and a Venture Partner with Human Health Platform, where he supports science- and technology-driven ventures in healthcare and the life sciences.
Dhairya has spoken at the United Nations, World Bank, World Economic Forum, SXSW, TEDx, leading universities, and Fortune 500 companies. His work has been featured by the BBC, Entrepreneur, the Philadelphia Business Journal, and other international media outlets.