Texas State hosts Global Junicorn & AI Summit 2025

Junicorn Startup Pitch Showcase

On May 29, the summit officially commenced with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony and an invocation song, followed by a welcome address from Dr. JA Chowdary, founder and chairman of ISF. Following the introduction, special guest Dr. Sanjay Ramchander, dean of McCoy College, welcomed guests, acknowledging the importance of supporting rural youth and international collaboration.

"We are deeply honored to host this remarkable assembly of visionaries and changemakers," Ramchander said in his address. "To the founders, the young entrepreneurs, and the mentors who have journeyed across continents, your presence here embodies the global spirit of entrepreneurship.”

Following introductory speeches from several speakers, the Junicorns began delivering their pitches, providing solutions to global challenges that address the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including clean water and sanitation; good health and well-being; industry, innovation, and infrastructure; quality education; and sustainable cities and communities. 

"What we are trying to do is solve a two-fold challenge," said Padma Alluri, a core team member and U.S. host committee leader for ISF. "[We're] trying to inspire the innovative minds in India, especially the rural youth entrepreneurs. We are offering them a local stage back in India then offering them a global platform, which would also help expose them to all the industry experts here who would be their future mentors. Because so many of these problems are not just local to India, they are global in nature."

Startups included Eden, a sustainable fashion startup that uses only natural fabrics and recycled scraps. Another was Farm Friend, a mobile app that aims to help people grow their produce in urban areas — where space for gardening is typically limited — using AR, AI, and gamification. A health-centric product pitch was the Glucocharm, a kid-friendly, jewelry-like wearable that makes managing Type 1 diabetes easier for children. The Junicorns offered a wide range of solutions focused on solving rural and global challenges. While some students provided demonstrations and offered prototypes of their products, others pitched ideas requiring funding to start developing and producing their products.

The day concluded with an award ceremony recognizing standout startups for their ingenuity and potential impact.

"Never underestimate the age of an innovator," said Quinn. "The insight and wisdom these young people shared in identifying a problem and innovating a solution was impressive beyond years."

Frei outlined the university's broader intentions in hosting the summit.

"Our vision was to create a platform where McCoy College and Texas State could engage with entrepreneurs from Texas, the U.S., and beyond," he said. "Being the location host for Junicorn aligns with our goal to foster an environment where entrepreneurship thrives. We were able to showcase our strengths, connect with innovators, and highlight the resources and opportunities available at our college and university."

On May 30, the last day of the conference, the day began with the Global AI Summit, which provided attendees with an in-depth look into artificial intelligence (AI). Speakers from numerous organizations participated in roundtable sessions that explored the impact of AI across industries, including healthcare, data privacy, and workforce development.

International Exchange

Along with the pitches and panels, Junicorns had the opportunity to tour NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, meet with startup innovators in Austin and Dallas, and experience some of Texas's cultural landmarks.

"I hope participants see that Texas State and San Marcos offer not just a beautiful venue but also a thriving culture of innovation and entrepreneurship," Frei said. "Our Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship is a testament to our dedication to supporting new ideas and business ventures."

Quinn added that the summit laid the foundation for future collaboration.

"More of these exchanges and promotion of young people's innovations are needed, not only to help the Junicorns, but also so many others here at Texas State," Quinn said. "The Junicorns asked for guidance and mentorship so they could continue on with their innovations to make a difference. Because of these 'asks,' all that attended had the ability to be part of greatness just by being supportive." ✯