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Falling Walls Lab

Which wall will your research break? Pitch your innovative idea in just three minutes, showcasing a breakthrough that positively impacts science and society. Presented by the Illinois Innovation Network.

Founders Day

Join UIS Innovate Springfield for an exciting day of activities and experiences to kick off a week of celebrating entrepreneurial successes, showcasing the Illinois innovation ecosystem while building a legacy of innovation and growth. Experience Springfield history, network with founders and investors, experience demos from healthcare organizations, and enjoy a keynote and panel discussion highlighting the need for collaboration with government to leverage venture capital in Illinois to realize our potential in underserved communities.

The University of Illinois Springfield Innovation Center will lease space at Horace Mann’s downtown Springfield campus to expand programs that support economic development in the region. The 2.5-year lease will allow the center to broaden programming and services focused on innovation, entrepreneurship and collaboration. The move is expected to be completed by September.

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Thrive Solo

Innovate Springfield brings you a unique opportunity for solo-entrepreneurs, freelancers and business operators in our area. Dr. Harry Elston, Ph.D., CIH, PMP is the founder of Midwest Chemical Safety. He will lead this two-hour work workshop.

With over 28 years of experience serving clients like Argonne National Labs and Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, Dr. Elston offers insights based on real-world business operations.

The workshop covers essential aspects of solo entrepreneurship:

Innovate Springfield, the University of Illinois Springfield’s downtown business incubator, will host a series of events in February featuring Paul Magelli, a serial entrepreneur, investor and director of Illini Angels at Illinois Ventures. Magelli, who has founded and scaled multiple successful ventures, will share his extensive experience in entrepreneurship, investment strategies and business growth.