Some of the Daystar University students displaying their business items during the DRICE Entrepreneurship Expo at Athi River Campus.

By John Nderitu

[Athi River, August 8, 2025] In a brilliant showcase of student entrepreneurial spirit, Daystar University, through its Directorate of Research, Innovation, Commercialization and Entrepreneurship (DRICE), held a 3-day Entrepreneurship Expo from August 5 - 7, 2025, at the PAC court, Athi River Campus.

The event brought together over 10 student-led businesses, transforming the campus into a buzzing marketplace filled with colorful merchandise, and interactive displays. Products ranged from fashion and tech gadgets to handmade artifacts, a testament to the creativity and resilience of the Daystar entrepreneurial community.=

The Expo was more than a sales event; it was a strategic initiative designed to expose student entrepreneurs to real customers, market feedback, and brand visibility. According to data collected post-event, over 80% of the entrepreneurs reported making tangible sales, with others gaining potential leads and long-term customers.=

“The expo was nice. I sell hoodies and T-shirts and was fortunate to make sales. Even those who didn't buy now know about me and are willing to be future customers. I thank DRICE for organizing this and hope they continue. It’s really helping us as entrepreneurs,” said Mary Wangeci, one of the student entrepreneurs.

Ms. Wangeci, who has also attended three DRICE-hosted webinars this semester and an entrepreneurial field trip to SNDBX International, credited DRICE with providing exposure and practical knowledge that has transformed her understanding of business.

The Entrepreneurship Expo is a cornerstone activity in DRICE’s broader mission to support student entrepreneurs not just as learners, but as emerging innovators capable of building market-ready ventures. Through events, mentorship, field visits, and training, DRICE is building a supportive ecosystem where learning meets enterprise.

“We’re not just building businesses; we’re building character, resilience, and opportunity.”

“These expos give students an immediate understanding of what it takes to convert ideas into income and how to connect with real customers. It’s all about market validation and visibility.”

The energy on campus during the expo was an encouraging sign of the growing entrepreneurial spirit within the student body. Beyond sales, students gained valuable lessons on branding, pitching, and networking skills vital for future business growth.

With such encouraging feedback, DRICE plans to replicate and expand the Entrepreneurship Expo in future semesters, offering students across both campuses even greater opportunities to showcase their ventures and scale their ideas.

This Article was written by John Nderitu, the Innovation Officer at DRICE.