Inaugural Emergent Defense Forum - Cincinnati

Emergent Forum: Connecting the Future of Defense Innovation Date: Tuesday, April 14th, 2026 Location: UC Digital Futures Building Address: 3080 Exploration Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45206 Where Industry Leaders Meet, Collaborate, and Shape What’s Next The 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 integrators - Government program managers and acquisition specialists - Defense tech startups and emerging innovators - Research institutions and universities Supply chain and industrial base partners Event Format: Two Hours. Endless Opportunity. 5:00–6:00 PM: Networking reception designed for meaningful conversation and connection 6:00–6:30 PM: Keynote presentation and speakers from an influential leaders shaping the future of defense 6:30–7:00 PM: Continued opportunity for networking and discussion Keynote Speaker: Zachary Mears; Senior Vice President, Strategy + Growth - Anduril Industries Speakers: Corinne Jorgenson; MS, MA, CF APMP - Director - Parallax Advanced Research  Scott Petersen; Colonel (Retired) - Executive Director - Defense Research Initiatives; University of Cincinnati Eric Harmon; Army (Veteran) - President - Main Street United; Emergent Defense Magazine 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. Why Attend: - Build relationships with key stakeholders across the defense ecosystem - Discover and share innovations shaping national security and defense capabilities - Position your organization as a trusted partner and thought leader Join us for an evening where innovation meets opportunity—and where the future of defense collaboration takes shape.