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Join us Oct. 7 for UIS' Inaugural Founders Day
Let's celebrate Illinois innovation!
Oct. 7, 2025
UIS Founders Day kicks off 2025 Founders Week, celebrating entrepreneurship and innovation across Illinois. Enjoy networking, live demos, and insights on how government partnerships fuel venture capital and growth.
Until Founder's Day!
Agenda
Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025
Check back frequently as we update the agenda.
8:30-11 a.m. | Breakfast + ALPLM Tour
Enjoy pastries and coffee, and sign up for a guided tour of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Founders Showcase
Startups from our central region will present healthcare ideas on stage, followed by an interactive conversation with the founders.
12:30-1:15 p.m. | Distillery Labs Panel Discussion - Founder Resources
Doug Cruit, Executive Director of Peoria Distillery Labs, will lead a conversation about what our network of incubators and startup hubs can offer.
1:30-3:30 p.m. | Lunch & Mentor Madness
Enjoy a buffet lunch and a networking/mentoring opportunity.
3:30-5 p.m. | Panel Discussion: Government's role in Supporting Founders and Investors
Join the conversation with state leadership, founders and active investors. What can our government do to improve venture activity in our state?
6-7:30 p.m. | Networking & Fireside Chat
Enjoy an evening at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum of networking, conversation and a fireside chat with accomplished founders and investors.
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