Dallas Baptist University Hosts 10th Annual Lion’s Den DFW Conference, Celebrating a Decade of Kingdom-Minded Entrepreneurship

Dallas Baptist University proudly hosted the 10th Annual Lion's Den DFW Conference on April 9–10, 2025, marking a decade of fostering faith-driven entrepreneurship and impact investing. The event brought together a vibrant community of investors, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders committed to advancing the Kingdom through transformative business ventures.​

The two-day conference featured a dynamic lineup of speakers, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities. Highlights included a keynote address by Nick Vujicic, a renowned motivational speaker and founder of Life Without Limbs, who shared his inspiring journey and insights on "The Hope for Africa in the 21st Century." Additionally, Henry Kaestner, co-founder of Sovereign's Capital, led a session on "Why Invest in Africa," emphasizing the importance of faith-aligned investments in emerging markets.​

Nick Vujicic, an internationally acclaimed speaker and founder of Life Without Limbs, delivered a deeply moving keynote address that challenged and inspired all in attendance. Sharing from his extraordinary journey—born without limbs, surviving a suicide attempt at age 10, and eventually discovering his purpose in Christ—Vujicic spoke boldly about faith, identity, and living with eternal purpose. "I am nothing but a poster child of an example of brokenness that God can use," he said. "If God can use a man without arms and legs, He can use you." His words cut through cultural noise and complacency, urging believers to move beyond casual Christianity and into a vibrant, personal relationship with Jesus.

Vujicic's message was unapologetically Gospel-centered, and he encouraged the audience to ask Jesus regularly: "What am I doing that You want me to stop? What am I not doing that you want me to start? What am I doing well that I should keep doing?" He also spoke about financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and a dream to mobilize 200 million Christians to give $2 a day to transform Africa. His call to action was clear: faith must go beyond belief into bold, restorative action. "We are called to stand at the gates of Hell and redirect traffic," he declared. With over 3,500 speeches in 84 countries and more than 1.7 million salvations through his ministry, Vujicic's life is a testimony to the miraculous power of God working through surrendered brokenness.

A centerpiece of the conference was the 10th Annual Pitch Competition, where entrepreneurs presented innovative, mission-driven business ideas to a panel of investors. The competition showcased ventures across various industries, all aiming to create both economic and spiritual impact.​

A special highlight of the day was the appearance of actress, producer, and New York Times bestselling author Candace Cameron Bure, who presented the trophies to the winners of the pitch competition. Speaking from both personal experience and heartfelt conviction, Bure shared words of encouragement with DBU students, commending them for choosing a university that boldly stands on biblical truth.

"I'm proud that you chose a university that stands behind biblical principles… and teaches leadership in a world that's not filled with Christ," she said, speaking from a mother's perspective and referencing her children in their 20s.

Bure challenged students to remain grounded in their faith and identity, offering a lasting piece of advice she once received from her pastor: "Know who you are and whose you are in the Lord. Because if you don't, the world will tell you for you." She emphasized the importance of biblical literacy, encouraging students not to let culture redefine what is good and true.

In closing, she inspired attendees to carry their convictions boldly into the workplace, no matter the setting. "You can live out your faith in any secular business when you know who you are in the Lord, and you have that relationship with Him every day."

Her presence and uplifting message added an unforgettable layer of encouragement and celebration to an already impactful day.

Attendees participated in specialized breakout tracks, including "Business as Mission in Africa," "Faith + Work," and "Entrepreneurship," designed to equip and inspire participants to integrate their faith into their professional endeavors. Accredited investors engaged in "Deep Dive" sessions, facilitating in-depth discussions on deal flow and investment strategies aligned with Kingdom values.​

DBU's Carter School of Business played a central role in the success of the Lion's Den Conference, leading the charge in student engagement and event execution. Over 200 DBU students registered to attend the two-day conference, a testament to the enthusiastic support of faculty from the Carter School who encouraged participation and created space for meaningful student involvement. Over 50 students also volunteered throughout the event, earning high praise from guests and participants for their professionalism and servant-hearted attitudes.

Professor Sandra Crawford Williamson, Chair of the Marketing Department at the Carter School, served as the emcee for the event, infusing each session with energy and clarity. Her leadership ensured that the event remained focused and fully engaged throughout. Reflecting on her experience, she shared, "Serving as Master of Ceremonies for The Lion's Den DFW 10th Anniversary Event was a true joy and privilege. I was especially proud to witness over 50 of our Dallas Baptist University student volunteers actively engaging in a Christ-centered event that champions faith-driven entrepreneurship, provided fantastic experience and exposure, and even created some full-time job offers. It was a powerful reminder of how business can be used to glorify God and impact the world for His Kingdom." Her perspective highlighted the meaningful connection between entrepreneurship and faith, illustrating the event's real-world impact.

Dr. Ross O'Brien, Chair of the Entrepreneurship Department, also played a key role behind the scenes, helping coordinate various aspects of the program. Additionally, DBU alumna Tamanno Hodjihanova provided critical leadership as event coordinator, ensuring every detail was executed with excellence. The collaboration and dedication of the Carter School of Business—along with DBU's Media Services, Physical Operations, and Dining Services teams—were instrumental in making this milestone event a resounding success.

The Lion's Den DFW continues to serve as a catalyst for connecting Christ-centered investors and entrepreneurs, promoting ventures that seek to transform the world economically and spiritually. As the conference celebrated its 10th anniversary, it reaffirmed its commitment to fueling the expansion of the Kingdom economy through impactful entrepreneurship.​