2026 Illinois Innovation Network Conference
Illinois Innovation Network Conference 2026: Powering Illinois’ Future Together
October 22-23, 2026
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
This conference provides a forum to gather university faculty researchers, students, funded program managers, and business and industry innovators from across the region. Attendees will have the opportunity to showcase, discuss, and learn about projects to support ethical, socially engaged, and sustainable economic growth in Illinois. Participants will contribute and consider sustainable approaches to clean energy production, developments in next generation agriculture technologies, and advancements in a range of biotechnologies.
Students will gain knowledge about critical ways that their research interests converge with business, industry, and social innovation, and will have opportunities to consider how pursuing academic expertise prepares them for future careers that address the concerns impacting our region.
For all attendees and participants, this conference is an opportunity to connect with potential collaborators, to share methods for pursuing cross-disciplinary partnerships, and become inspired by the exciting activities and advancements in addressing the interconnected issues that are important to Illinois and the bi-state region.
Conference Dates and Location:
The Illinois Innovation Network Conference 2026: Powering Illinois’ Future Together conference will take place on October 22 – 23. The conference will be held at the Health Sciences Complex on the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville campus.
Accommodations near SIUE:
Hotel accommodations are available at a group rate under “Illinois Innovation Conference” at the following locations:
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Edwardsville
- TownePlace Suites, Edwardsville
- Four Seasons Hotel, St. Louis