College of DuPage, Innovation DuPage to host Midwest Innovation and Entrepreneurship Summit Feb. 26

Posted January 30, 2026 10:51 pm

Submitted by COD News Bureau

College of DuPage and Innovation DuPage will host the second annual Midwest Innovation and Entrepreneurship Summit on Thursday, Feb. 26, bringing together industry leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators for a day focused on artificial intelligence, quantum technology and the future of work.

The summit will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Student Resource Center, Room 2000, on COD’s Glen Ellyn campus, 425 Fawell Blvd.

Designed to celebrate the Midwest’s long-standing culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, the event will feature industry experts from Intel, Lenovo and other regional organizations, along with COD President Dr. Muddassir Siddiqi and thought leaders from across the region.

Jon Hansen of WGN Radio will moderate the day’s conversations, guiding discussions on the technologies, industries and market forces shaping the future of work and economic growth.

Event highlights include:

• Success stories from accomplished entrepreneurs

• Insights on identifying critical resources to build an entrepreneurial team

• Strategies for funding and scaling a startup

• Discussions on how AI and quantum technologies are transforming the workplace

• Exploration of emerging Midwest markets, including advanced manufacturing, fintech and clean energy

• Networking opportunities with peers and industry leaders

• A social hour with refreshments following the summit