CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
04.04.2025
Keynote Speakers
Dug Song (DUO & CISCO) & Ian Sandler (Insight Partners)
Venue: Jeff T. Blau Hall - Room 1580
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Great ideas need the right backing to thrive. Kick off the conference with two dynamic keynote speakers sharing their unique journeys through tech and venture. Dug Song, co-founder of Duo Security, will reflect on building a billion-dollar company from the Midwest and spotlight the wealth of regional resources available to startups. Following Dug, Ian Sandler of Insight Partners will share his perspective on the diverse paths into venture capital, offering honest insights on how different backgrounds can lead to a seat at the investing table. It’s a powerful start filled with inspiration, storytelling, and practical wisdom.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Startup Pitches & Presentations
Venue: Jeff T. Blau Hall - Room 1580
Innovative ideas take the stage as founders showcase their startups to investors, industry leaders, and fellow entrepreneurs. From cutting-edge tech to game-changing business models, this is your chance to see the next big thing before it takes off. Whether you're looking to invest, collaborate, or just get inspired, these pitches offer a firsthand look at the future of innovation.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Catered Lunch Break
Venue: Jeff T. Blau Hall - Room 1570
Take a break, grab a bite, and connect with fellow attendees over a delicious catered lunch. Whether you're diving into a deep conversation with investors, brainstorming with founders, or just recharging for the afternoon sessions, this is the perfect time to network, unwind, and fuel up for what’s next.
Deep Tech & Founder Resource Panels
Venue: Jeff T. Blau Hall - Room 1580
1:15 PM - 2:00 PM
Dive into two engaging panels designed to inform and inspire. The Deep Tech Panel will explore the cutting-edge innovations being built right here in the Midwest—highlighting why the region is becoming a powerhouse for critical, high-impact technologies. The subsequent panel brings together serial founders and startup service providers to share the legal insights, tools, and resources that every founder should have in their back pocket. Whether you’re building, advising, or just curious, these panels offer actionable takeaways and fresh perspectives.
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Startup-VC Meetings & Open Networking
Venue: Jeff T. Blau Hall - Room 1570
Founders and investors come together for one-on-one meetings and open networking designed to spark connections and potential deals. Whether you're pitching your startup, scouting investment opportunities, or exchanging insights with industry peers, this session is all about building relationships that drive innovation forward.