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The Midwest Innovation and Entrepreneurship Summit 2026 - AI, Quantum and the Future of Work

Feb 26
9:00 am
College of DuPage, Jack H. Turner Conference Center, 425 Fawell Blvd. Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

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Presented by College of DuPage and Innovation DuPage

Experience a full day dedicated to AI, Quantum and the Future of Work at the Second Annual Midwest Innovation & Entrepreneurship Summit — a celebration of the ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit that has defined the Midwest for generations.

From the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 to today’s breakthroughs in advanced technology, Chicagoland has long been a hub of enterprise. With strong infrastructure, reliable energy, world‑class universities, and a highly skilled workforce, the region is now leading the way in AI, quantum, big data, and emerging tech sectors.

This year’s summit features industry trailblazers from Intel, Lenovo, and other Midwest innovators, alongside College of DuPage President Dr. Muddassir Siddiqi and distinguished thought leaders. Jon Hansen of WGN Radio will moderate the day’s conversations, guiding discussions on the technologies and markets shaping the future.

Event Highlights

  • Hear inspirational success stories from successful entrepreneurs
  • Identify critical resources to build your entrepreneurial team
  • Learn practical strategies for funding your startup
  • Explore how AI and quantum are transforming the future of work
  • Discover emerging Midwest markets: advanced manufacturing, fintech, and clean energy
  • Connect with peers during extensive networking opportunities
  • Enjoy a social hour with refreshments following the summit

Partner with Us at the Midwest Innovation & Entrepreneurship Summit

Sponsorship opportunities include visibility at sessions, networking events, and across promotional channels.

Interested in sponsoring? Click here

Schedule

Jon Hansen, WGN Radio 

Dr. Muddassir Siddiqi, College of DuPage

Dr. Joseph Cassidy, College of DuPage and Innovation DuPage

Governor JB Pritzker, State of Illinois

Will Shih, Director of Economic Development for U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth

Joe Chura, Go Brewing

Laura Adamski, Cygnet Midwest

Matt Denton, Sikich

Leslee Cohen, All Rise Lawyers

Andrew Limouris, Medix

Melissa Villanueva, Brewpoint Coffee

Scott Kitun, GigaStar

Emily Easton, Chicago Quantum Exchange

Anshul Sonak, Intel

Dr. Hernán Londońo, Lenovo

Dr. TJ Rains, Workday

Mijo Vodopić, The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation

Nick Howard, Bantix Technologies and QUIK LLC

Patrick Osborne, Technology & Manufacturing Association

Jon Adams, Calamos Wealth Management

Thank You To Our Sponsors

Visionary Sponsor
Champion Sponsor
Ignite Sponsor
Ignite Sponsor
Ignite Sponsor
Ignite Sponsor