Inaugural Emergent Defense Forum - Cincinnati

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; Strategy + Growth - Senior Vice President - Anduril Industries

Speakers:

Scott Petersen; Colonel (Retired) - Executive Director - Defense Research Initiatives; University of Cincinnati

Corinne Jorgenson; MS, MA, CF APMP - Director - Parallax Advanced Research

Eric Harmon; Veteran - President - Main Street United; Emergent Defense Magazine

Early Bird Admission is available through March 5th.

-Position your organization as a trusted partner and thought leader

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 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.