Inaugural Emergent Defense Forum - Cincinnati
Emergent Forum: Connecting the Future of Defense InnovationDate: Tuesday, April 14th, 2026Location: UC Digital Futures Building Address: 3080 Exploration Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45206Where Industry Leaders Meet, Collaborate, and Shape What’s NextThe Emergent Forum is an exclusive, twice-annual networking experience bringing together 100+ defense industry professionals, innovators, and decision-makers. Designed to spark collaboration and showcase groundbreaking solutions, each forum features a high-profile keynote speaker followed by an extended networking reception—the ideal environment to connect, exchange ideas, and elevate your brand.Meet and engage with a powerful mix of professionals driving defense innovation:Defense contractors and prime integratorsGovernment program managers and acquisition specialistsDefense tech startups and emerging innovatorsResearch institutions and universitiesSupply chain and industrial base partnersEvent Format:Two Hours. Endless Opportunity.5:00–6:00 PM: Networking reception designed for meaningful conversation and connection6:00–6:30 PM: Keynote presentation and speakers from an influential leaders shaping the future of defense6:30–7:00 PM: Continued opportunity for networking and discussionKeynote Speaker: Zachary Mears; Senior Vice President, Strategy + Growth - Anduril IndustriesSpeakers:Scott Petersen; Colonel (Retired) - Executive Director - Defense Research Initiatives; University of CincinnatiIan Haynes - Managing Director - Parallax Advanced Research;Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub: OhioEric Harmon; Veteran - President - Main Street United; Emergent Defense MagazineEarly Bird Admission is available through March 15th. Admission Includes: 1 drink ticket, light Appetizers, attendance to Keynote speaker, and access to industry exclusive networking with ranking professionals in the defense industry. Please Note: All attendees must have a ticket prior to the event. Walk-ins will not be permitted. Ticket sales and RSVPs will close three (3) days before the event. Registration is non-transferable. Why Attend:Build relationships with key stakeholders across the defense ecosystemDiscover and share innovations shaping national security and defense capabilitiesPosition your organization as a trusted partner and thought leaderJoin us for an evening where innovation meets opportunity—and where the future of defense collaboration takes shape.Event Disclaimer:This industry networking event requires advance registration and government-issued ID for entry. No classified or controlled information will be shared. Photography or recording is prohibited without authorization. Participation does not imply government endorsement. Event organizers reserve the right to deny entry or remove attendees for non-compliance. Prohibited items may include weapons, recording devices, or restricted electronics. No refunds will be issued for removal due to policy violations.
Event Links
Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/3555736-0
