MCB’s Innovation Talks

Innovation Talks is a dynamic event series that sparks collaboration and unlocks opportunities in Northern Colorado. Hosted at UNC, it brings together leaders, entrepreneurs, and researchers to share ideas, forge connections, and drive regional innovation and growth.

Professor Keiko Krahnke, holding a microphone, wearing a black suit jacket and a white t-shirt. Presenting at Innovation Talks 20205
Monfort College of Business

Fostering a Culture of Innovation & Collaboration

Innovation Talks aims to bridge the gap by fostering collaboration and building a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. Initiated by Professor Isaac Wanasika of Monfort College of Business in partnership with the City of Greeley, it hosts free, biannual workshops at the University of Northern Colorado.

The key goals include:

  • Convene business leaders, entrepreneurs, and researchers to share insights and strategies for turning research into commercial success.
  • Highlight emerging opportunities for innovation and business growth in Northern Colorado.
  • Provide networking and learning platforms for students, faculty, and local professionals to connect, collaborate, and develop solutions that will shape Greeley’s future.

Innovation Talks Fall 2025: Local Manufacturing

This semester's Innovation Talks highlighted the future of manufacturing in Northern Colorado. The event showcased how the local ecosystem is evolving, explored the challenges faced by regional businesses, and identified the opportunities available for our regional workforce.

Two female students, holding a Innovation Talks glass cup. Both are smiling and enjoying the event.

Connecting Students with the Community

Innovation Talks is not just about making connections; it's about fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. By bringing together students and the local community, Innovation Talks is creating a powerful ecosystem where ideas can flourish, partnerships can be formed, and the community as a whole can thrive.

Expand Your Network:

Make meaningful connections with experienced professionals, entrepreneurs, and other students at Innovation Talk. These relationships can lead to internships, mentorships, and even future job opportunities.

Innovation Talks Speaker, 2024 — Providing Valuable Insights and Inspiring Creativity

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Gain Real-World Insights:

Engage with industry leaders and entrepreneurs through panel discussions. Learn from their experiences, challenges, and triumphs, gaining valuable insights that can’t be found in textbooks.

Innovation Talks 2025 Panelists — Offering Real-World Insights

Three individuals seated on a stage, engaging with an audience. The person in the middle, holding a microphone, is speaking while the others raise their hands in response, with audience members visible in the foreground.

Discover Local Opportunities:

Connect with businesses and organizations in the Greeley community actively seeking fresh talent. Discover internship opportunities, collaborative projects, and potential career paths right here in your local area.

Innovation Talks 2025 brings together diverse voices, offering inspiring insights and real-world perspectives to spark innovation and collaboration.

Audience members seated in an auditorium, attentively listening and engaging during Innovation Talks 2025, with some taking notes or using devices.

Fuel Your Entrepreneurial Spirit:

If you dream of launching your own business, Innovation Talks is the perfect place to find inspiration, guidance, and potential collaborators. Learn from those who have successfully navigated the entrepreneurial journey.

Professor Rachel Roberts shares insights on funding opportunities to help explore and foster entrepreneurship during Innovation Talks 2025.

Julie Pink speaking at Innovation Talks, holding a microphone and gesturing with her hand, while addressing an audience focused on her presentation.

Innovation Talks Fall 2025: Local Manufacturing

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A man with glasses and a beard stands at a podium labeled with
A man and a woman are conversing in a room with a white wall and a wooden door. The man, wearing a black vest, holds a drink can and gestures with his hand. The woman is facing him, wearing a dark jacket.
Two men are engaged in a discussion indoors, near a white wall with windows in the background. The man on the left is wearing a black jacket with a logo and a cap, while the man on the right has brown hair, glasses, and is wearing a maroon long-sleeve shirt, gesturing with his right hand.
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Thank You to Our Partners!

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