ISTConversations: Turning Corporate Innovation into Impact

​What does it really take to move innovation from R&D to real-world impact?

​In this installment of ISTConversations, we're bringing together leaders from across Chicago’s innovation ecosystem to unpack how corporates think about innovation, what incentivizes pilot programs, and how ideas actually make the leap from experimentation to commercialization. Join us virtually on February 26 for a discussion between:

• ​Fred Hoch, Founding Partner at TechNexus Venture Collaborative and Investor

• ​Cara Bader, Vice President of Strategy and Innovation at Chicago Transit Authority

• ​Ernesto Camacho III, Head of Innovation and Partnership Experience at 1871

​Come for the insights. Stay for the community. Leave inspired by what's being built in Illinois.

​Founded in 1989, the Illinois Science and Technology Coalition (ISTC) is Illinois’ trusted convener and champion for innovation, data, and STEM education. We are a partner-driven nonprofit that delivers measurable statewide economic impact. ISTC positions Illinois as a national innovation leader through ecosystem programming and support, data insights, and non-partisan advocacy.