​Connect Today. Partner for Tomorrow.

​​Illinois is full of bold ideas—and this is where some of the most promising ones begin.

​The Voucher University Session brings Illinois universities and small-to-medium-sized businesses (SMEs) together for an interactive session designed to spark new research and development collaborations. Each event features university leaders showcasing their faculty expertise, innovation resources, and stories of industry engagement, paired with an open Q&A that invites SMEs to explore how collaboration can fuel real-world solutions.

​Along the way, both sides will learn how the Illinois Innovation Voucher Program can support partnerships with up to $75,000 in R&D funding.

​​Who Should Attend & Why

​​🎓 University Members

• ​​Learn how your institution can benefit from the Illinois Innovation Voucher Program and expand opportunities for applied research and faculty engagement. These sessions give you a front-row seat to see how universities are showcasing their strengths, attracting new business connections, and leveraging voucher funding to support impactful R&D collaborations.

​​💼 Small & Medium-Sized Businesses

• ​Connect with Illinois universities that can help solve challenges, develop new products, or expand your technical capacity. Gain direct insight into academic expertise, discover potential research partners, and learn how vouchers can cover up to 75% of project costs, making collaboration more accessible than ever.

​​The Voucher University Session
Hosted by the Illinois Science and Technology Coalition (ISTC)
In collaboration with Northern Illinois University (NIU) and DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC)

​​👉 Learn more about the program: www.ilinnovouchers.org