Every year, Innovators’ Night, hosted by Innovate@BU, brings together Boston’s brightest minds and creative thinkers. From New Venture Competition pitches to immersive tabling events, it’s more than just a conference—it’s a celebration of entrepreneurship, community, and innovation.
Hear from this year’s dynamic emcees of Innovators’ Night 2025, Riya Shukla (CAS’25) and Remi Chester (Questrom’25), about their excitement for the event, why it’s such a can’t-miss experience, and what attendees should look forward to.
Why Are the Hosts Excited to Lead Innovators’ Night?
Both emcees are no strangers to Innovate@BU or to the entrepreneurial community that drives it forward. “I’ve been involved with Innovate@BU for over two years now, and it’s truly such an inspiring community,” Remi shared. “I’m excited to support my fellow entrepreneurs who have made it to the big pitch contest.”
Riya echoed the sentiment, “I’m thrilled to see all the amazing startups and people tabling at the event. I can’t wait to engage with the community and contribute in such a meaningful way.”
From their perspective, taking the emcee stage at Innovators’ Night isn’t just about spotlighting incredible ideas—it’s about fostering entrepreneurship and connecting like-minded innovators.
Why Should You Attend Innovators’ Night?
For those wondering what makes Innovators’ Night stand out, our emcees had plenty to say. “It’s always such a fun, well-organized event. The pitches are incredible—everyone puts so much effort into them, and you can feel how passionate they are about their ideas,” Remi explained.
But it’s not just about the startups. “There’s something for everyone,” Remi added. “You’ve got the engaging pitches, interactive tabling events, amazing networking opportunities—even a caricature artist and open bar!”
Beyond the entertainment factor, there’s an inspirational element that resonates deeply with anyone in—or aspiring to be in—the entrepreneurial space. “Seeing people who have persevered through the challenges of entrepreneurship and made it to this stage is so energizing,” Riya noted. “It’s uplifting to see the milestones others have reached and feel like part of this innovative community.”
Tips for Attendees
Whether you’re attending as an entrepreneur, a curious learner, or just a fan of startups, the emcees had some advice for getting the most out of Innovators’ Night—especially during the tabling sessions.
“If you’re chatting with startups at their tables, ask questions that go beyond the product itself,” Remi suggested. “It’s always fun to share the story behind the platform—how we went from ideas to execution, what challenges we faced, and how we tested the product.”
Riya agreed, “When I was starting out, I always wanted to know how to take an idea and make it real. Those questions are so fun to answer now, and they’re such valuable conversations for aspiring entrepreneurs.”
What’s Happening at the Tables?
Our emcees aren’t just hosting this year—they’re also representing their own ventures at the tabling event! Here’s what you shouldn’t miss when you visit them:
Riya is the founder of Matchbox, and she says she is “really looking forward to meeting potential users and hearing their thoughts about Matchbox. Stop by, learn about the app, and see if it’s something you’d love to try.”
Remi is the founder of Popple, and they will “be sharing info about our app, giving away some awesome merch, and running a raffle! It’s a great chance to win something fun and explore what Popple is all about.”
With so much to offer—engaging pitches, interactive tables, and an inclusive community spirit—Innovators’ Night 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable experience.
See you there!
