IO2026 is bringing together 300+ innovators to explore what happens when artistry meets analysis, and inspiration meets execution. 

Since 2017, the IO Summit has been a place for trailblazing startups, pioneering enterprises, and creative changemakers to learn from the best and brightest in the world of innovation and entrepreneurship. 

So whether you think in color or code, theory or design, join us to connect and collaborate with the builders, makers, movers, shakers, founders, and creators from across the Midwest who are making innovation happen. 

• Join us for a unique, fast-paced look at the art and science of innovation 

• Ignite your innovation journey with new ideas and insights

• Explore the tactics, tools, and technologies changing the landscape of startups and corporate innovators

• Meet, mix, and mingle with a diverse set of peers and pioneers

• Build your speed, focus, and confidence to navigate a world of change and uncertainty 

New Venues

The Sheldon Museum of Art will be the centerpiece for a jam-packed, fast-paced day of keynotes, gallery presentations, networking and more.

The Lunch Cafe will be hosted at the amazing Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts and offer a chance to explore and engage with fellow peers and innovation pioneers.

Our out-of-town guests can enjoy our new luxury accommodations partner, The Kindler Hotel, located in downtown Lincoln, steps from The Sheldon.

NEW GALLERY OF INNOVATION

From startups to side projects, the IO2026 Summit shines a spotlight on early-stage, high-growth ventures and bold corporate innovation initiatives. The Gallery of Innovation showcases your project to world-class investors, enterprises, mentors, customers, and peers.

We expect to feature more than 100 startups and innovation projects in this digital showcase. Entry is free and open to all pre-seed, seed, and series A startups, as well as bootstrapped ventures, creative side projects, and corporate innovation teams.

Selected projects will receive space in our virtual Gallery of Innovation. Up to 30 finalists will receive a free ticket to attend IO2026, and 15 participants will earn a 5-minute spot on stage to present their innovations and insights.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and space is limited. Accepted entries will be featured online in the Gallery of Innovation, and submissions cannot be edited after entry. Apply today to share your innovation with the world.

NEW KEYNOTES & GALLERY Presenters

In addition to 8 keynotes highlighting a variety of topics covering the art and science of innovation. We’ll be announcing the slate of IO2026 speakers in the coming weeks! In the meantime, feel free to check out the videos of our amazing speakers from past IO Summits

NEW VIP PLUS TICKET

IO2026 is now offering a new VIP PLUS experience complete with a VIP Speaker reception on Sunday, April 12th, fun swag, and an opportunity to engage with the best peer network of innovators in the Midwest.

VIP PLUS ticket holders will also be able to extend the IO2026 experience throughout the year starting with the first Innovation Roundtable Breakfast on April 14th and two additional breakfasts in August and November 2026.

Grab your VIP PLUS ticket and enjoy:

• Exclusive opportunity to extend the conversations & networking in 2026

• Three hosted breakfasts - April 14,  August (TBD), November (TBD)

• Curated conversations with innovation leaders & IO2026 VIPs

• Peer-networking and exclusive content

• Ongoing ideas, insights, and inspiration

For StartuPS

Spotlight Your Startup Innovation

IO2026 puts a spotlight on early-stage, high-growth startups and connects them to world-class investors, enterprises, mentors, customers, and peers. 

Startups are invited to apply for the IO2026 Gallery of Innovation — a virtual showcase spotlighting the Midwest’s most promising startups.

Selected companies from the Gallery will also have the opportunity to present on stage at the conference, sharing what they’re building and the lessons they’ve learned.

Apply to the Gallery of Innovation (Deadline March 15).

• Showcase your products/services to gain brand and market exposure

• Find your next customer, pilot partner, or investor

• Connect with leading industry mentors and experts

For Corporate Innovators & Business Leaders

Establish your company as a leader in today’s dynamic market climate!

Business innovators and corporate teams will want to take advantage of this opportunity to learn the latest tools and techniques for accelerating innovation. 

Talk to industry experts and other innovative companies to better understand the latest trends and the methods for injecting innovation into larger organizations. Give your teams the necessary training to move faster and act bolder. Meet teams building the latest technologies and services. Engage directly with fellow builders and creators to learn first-hand what it's like to think, move, and act at the speed of innovation.

• Collaborate with other industries and corporate innovators

• Find targeted technologies for your business strategy

• Learn the latest tools for innovation & business model disruption

• Accelerate speed to market, revenue streams, and investment opportunities

• Position your company as an industry leader for talent and growth

For Individuals / Investors / and other community Innovators

Engage with a diverse Innovation ecosystem!

Join innovators, investors, and community leaders to learn, engage, and connect. Your ticket gives you full access to sessions on innovation trends, AI tactics and tools, and cutting-edge methodologies. Discover insights on business model disruption, partnering with startups, fundraising strategies, and more.

Tickets on sale Now!

We’ll be announcing the slate of IO2026 speakers in the coming weeks! In the meantime, feel free to check out the videos of our amazing speakers from past IO Summits: