DECEMBER 2025 | THE HILL INSTITUTE NEWSROOM

December always gives us a chance to slow down just enough to look around and say, “Wow, we really did a lot together this year.”


As 2025 comes to a close, we’re thinking about the moments that made this year special. Students who took a chance on an idea they weren’t sure would work. Founders who showed up week after week, even when building felt uncomfortable or uncertain. Partners who leaned in, asked good questions, and believed in the people doing the work.


That’s what The Hill Institute is all about. Not just programs or pitch nights, but people. Creating spaces where curiosity is encouraged, risks are celebrated, and ideas are given room to grow. This year, we watched that happen across campus and throughout the Greenville community, and it’s something we don’t take for granted.


So from our Hill Institute team to you, we pitch you a Merry Christmas and a joyful holiday season. Thank you for being part of this community, for cheering on students and founders, and for believing that meaningful innovation starts with people.


And because we’re already looking ahead…


Coming in January: Our 2025 Impact Report


In January, we’ll share our 2025 Impact Report, a reflection of what you helped make possible this year. Consider this a small preview before the full story drops.


Here’s a sneak peek at what’s inside:

Behind every number is a real story of courage, growth, and momentum. We can’t wait to share those stories with you in the new year.

OPEN APPLICATIONS

2026 RINKER PALADIN PITCH APPLICATIONS


Applications are now open for the 2026 Rinker Paladin Pitch Competition, Furman’s premier student pitch event. Four finalists will work one-on-one with the Hill Institute to refine their ventures before competing live for the $10,000 Johnny Flynn Award.


Open to all full-time Furman undergraduate students:

  • Applications close March 1, 2026
  • Program begins March 9.
  • Pitch Competition on April 16


LEARN MORE & APPLY HERE

GVL STARTS | FALL 2026 APPLICATIONS


This transformational 9-week experience will include mentoring from successful local entrepreneurs and business owners, coaching from experienced design thinkers, instruction from distinguished university faculty, and an investor community that’s engaged and committed to supporting aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners. 


LEARN MORE & APPLY HERE

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UPCOMING EVENTS

January

21

Furman Institutes Present: Hearts of Glass Film

Watkins Room | Trone Student Center | 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM


Join the Furman Institutes for a compelling evening that brings together film, conversation, and community. The event will feature a special screening of Hearts of Glass, an award-winning documentary about entrepreneurship, sustainability, disability inclusion, health and well-being, and community impact. Following the screening, we will host a dynamic panel discussion with the Executive Directors of the Furman University Institutes, the film’s director, and voices featured in the film. 

Student Impact

Community Impact

Join The Movement

WE ARE THANKFUL FOR OUR COMMUNITY COLLABORATORS

Our operations are fully supported by generous donors and program sponsors. Please consider donating today to support our mission of creating innovative and entrepreneurially minded leaders at Furman and in the Upstate.



Interested in sponsorship opportunities?

Please email Innovation@Furman.edu