Through our network and partnerships Innovate Marquette sponsors and hosts a variety of events for entrepreneurs and innovators who are interested the engaging, networking, and broadening their knowledge in creative technologies, sustainability, accessibility and the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce.
U.P. Outdoor Summit presented by ORIAN
The annual U.P. Outdoor Recreation Summit is a gathering of outdoor enthusiasts and change makers, showcasing and celebrating the work accomplished thus far, surveying current projects and trends, and casting a vision for the future. Hosted by The Outdoor Recreation Innovation Action Network (ORIAN) , in collaboration with the MI Outdoor Summit, the U.P. Outdoor Recreation Summit is held in Marquette on May 16 at the Jacobetti Complex on Northern Michigan University’s Campus.
ORIAN was formed by The Central Upper Peninsula Planning and Development (CUPPAD) Regional Commission and Innovate Marquette (IMQT) in May of 2024, bringing a diverse group of public and private stakeholders together to collaborate, share information, and oversee the development of a growth strategy for outdoor recreation innovation in the central UP. ORIAN will focus on helping the region adapt and diversify from its former reliance on coal industry jobs and develop a strategic framework for the growth of the outdoor recreation industry. This undertaking, which will transform the outdoor recreation industry in the central Upper Peninsula and beyond, is possible due to a $320,000 grant from the federal Economic Development Administration (EDA) Learn more about ORIAN here.
Women in Entrepreneurship
Women in Entrepreneurship is dedicated to celebrating and empowering female founders, aspiring entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this event offers invaluable resources and networking opportunities to help you thrive in your entrepreneurial journey.
Free and open to the public, Women in Entrepreneurship is an annual event. View photos and watch a recording of Georgia Grace Edwards’ keynote address to relive the inspiring moments and insights from our most recent event on May 16, 2024.
Peak25
Save the date for Peak25 – February 20-21, 2025.
SISU: The Innovation Institute at NMU and Innovate Marquette co-host the Peak25 conference at Northern Michigan University.’
Peak25 provides a dynamic platform to celebrate research and scholarly activity, promote entrepreneurial ventures in outdoor innovation, creative technology, and sustainable solutions, as well as encourage collaboration. Peak25 is free and open to the public. Registration information is coming soon at peakconference.org.
Peak25 features keynote presentations from internationally-renowned innovators, interactive workshops, a sustainability design jam, outdoor innovation showcase, pitch competitions, Three Minute Thesis (3MT), a student scholarship summit, provided meals, and more.
Innovation Week 2024
Innovation Week is a three-day professional development conference bringing together thought leaders, innovators, and creative minds in Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula. Featuring keynote speakers, carefully curated innovation quests, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities, Innovation Week will inspire, enlighten, and spark curiosity.
Protolab Grand Opening
Join us on Tuesday, October 3rd for a grand opening of the Innovate Marquette protolab. Located on the lower level of the Kaufman Block, the protolab is a specialized prototyping lab equipped with state-of-the-art 3D printing and scanning technologies.
The protolab supports local entrepreneurs by helping to transform 2D designs into physical prototypes.
Speaker Nominations
At Innovate Marquette, we’re always looking for new voices and innovative ideas to showcase at our events. From Women in Entrepreneurship to Tech Talks and Innovation Week, our events touch on a variety of topics meant to inform, inspire, and spark curiosity within our entrepreneurial community.
Nominate yourself or someone else to be a speaker at one of our events!
Tech Talks
Tech Talks is a series of events hosted by Innovate Marquette SmartZone. Taking place in a casual setting, each event highlights a different topic ranging from 3D printing and outdoor recreation to customer discovery and patents. Our impressive lineup of speakers features tech experts and industry leaders within our local entrepreneurial ecosystem. Each “Talk” will incorporate a live Q&A with the audience. We’ve also carved out time for networking so bring your business cards!
