Encountering Innovation 2026
10th Annual Tech Showcase
June 29 - July 2 Wichita, KS
Encountering Innovation (EI) connects emerging technologies with validated Department of War needs. Through technology pitches, matchmaking, Tech Scout engagement, and commercialization support, EI helps innovators accelerate the transition of dual-use solutions from concept to operational impact. The 2026 Tech Showcase brings together innovators, government stakeholders, industry partners, and ecosystem resources to identify technologies that can strengthen national security and warfighter effectiveness.
These buttons are indicators of what you can attend or not attend during the Encountering Innovation Tech Showcase. 'Public Attendance' is for the public at large. 'Open to Innovators & Showcase' is only for registered attendees: Tech Scouts, Tech Coaches, Small Businesses, and Resource Partners who have submitted DIU requirements to the EI Team ahead of time. Matchmaking and Private Pitch Sessions are only for Small Business Innovators & Teams already registered for the EI Tech Showcase.
53
Technologies Reviewed
21
States Represented
36
Pitching Innovations
Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Matchmaking Meetings 8:30-Noon
Private: One-on-One Small Business Innovators & Team Meetings
Matchmaking Meetings 1:00-5:00 PM
Groover Labs (OnRamp Hub: Kansas)
Setup / Arrival Tech Scouts 8:15-8:30 AM
Pitch to Tech Scouts 8:40-Noon
Private - Small Business Innovators & Team
Groover Labs (OnRamp Hub: Kansas)
Pitch to Tech Scouts 1:00-3:00 PM
Speakers Presentations 3:00 PM-5:00PM
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Matchmaking Meetings 8:30-Noon
Private: One-on-One Small Business Innovators & Team Meetings
Matchmaking Meetings 1:00-5:00 PM
Groover Labs (OnRamp Hub: Kansas)
Setup / Arrival Tech Scouts 8:15-8:30 AM
Pitch to Tech Scouts 8:40-Noon
Private - Small Business Innovators & Team
Groover Labs (OnRamp Hub: Kansas)
Pitch to Tech Scouts 1:00-3:00 PM
Speakers Presentations 3:00 PM-5:00PM
One Million Cups (Presentation Hall) 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Thursday, July 2, 2026
Matchmaking Meetings 8:30-Noon
Private: One-on-One Small Business Innovators & Team Meetings
Matchmaking Meetings 1:00-3:00 PM
Groover Labs (OnRamp Hub: Kansas)
Setup / Arrival Tech Scouts 8:15-8:30 AM
Pitch to Tech Scouts 8:40-Noon
Private - Small Business Innovators & Team
Groover Labs (OnRamp Hub: Kansas)
Pitch to Tech Scouts 1:00-3:00 PM
SBA Advocate / Sen. Marshall 3:00 PM-4:30PM
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Small Business Forum