Strategic Initiatives

Keep up to date on upcoming opportunities for Business & Industry collaboration and training by signing up for the Strategic Initiatives newsletter:

Strategic Initiatives Newsletter

See our list of current event and training opportunities below:

April

 Great Plains Hub I-Corps Information Session

Wednesday, April 8th, 2026 | Wichita, KS

Curious if your idea has real market potential? Join our I-Corps Information Session to learn how you can test your concept, talk to real customers, and reduce risk before pursuing funding or launching a venture. This event is open to researchers, students, and community innovators! Whether you’re a newcomer to innovation, or an experienced entrepreneur, I-Corps is a great place to start.

Time: 2pm-3pm

Location: John Bardo Center Lobby | 1800 Innovation Blvd, Wichita, KS

The session is free to attend but RSVP is required. 

RSVP to Attend

Intellectual Property 101: Learn More About IP Basics

April 21st, 2026 | Wichita, KS

Want to learn more about patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets? Join us for IP 101 to learn about intellectual property basics and potential ways to protect your innovations as you transition from idea to product.

The USPTO’s Regional Director for the Southwest Office, Hope Shimabuku will lead this session. You'll receive an overview of IP types and learn why innovators and entrepreneurs should consider protecting their IP and local resources and assistance available through the USPTO and other agencies

Time: 12:30pm-1:45pm

Location: John Bardo Center, Room 264 | 1800 Innovation Blvd, Wichita, KS

The session is free to attend but RSVP is required. 

RSVP to Attend

CMMC Midwest Conference

April 30th - May 1st, 2026 | Wichita, KS

Registration is now open for the 4th Annual CMMC Midwest Conference, a two day event dedicated to keeping you at the forefront of Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Get ready for the Midwest’s premier CMMC convention, bringing together the best and brightest in the CMMC ecosystem from the Midwest and beyond. You can expect there to be expert speakers, workshops, booths, compliance jam, networking, and more.

Who Should Attend:

  • DoD Contractors & Subcontractors: Anyone subject to CMMC Level 1 looking for a hands-on approach.
  • IT & Security Professionals: Those tasked with implementing and managing compliance controls.
  • Managed Service Providers (MSPs): Supporting clients who must meet or maintain CMMC requirements.
  • Compliance Officers & Auditors: Individuals needing a deeper understanding of the practical side of CMMC assessments.

The Conference will run approximately 8am-5pm both days, so if you are traveling to Wichita for the Conference, we suggest planning your trip accordingly. Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport is only moments away from the Conference location.

Location: Hilton Garden Inn Airport Conference Center | 1523 S. Ridge Rd., Wichita, KS 67209

Register

May

This will be updated with event/training information as it becomes available