iDEa Conference: Emerging Industries in BlueTech and Photonics
Schedule
Tue Jul 28 2026 at 04:00 pm to 07:00 pm
UTC-04:00Location
Wilmington University | New Castle, DE
About this Event
Event Overview
Join us for the iDEa Conference: Emerging Industries in BlueTech and Photonics, an engaging and accessible introduction to two of the fastest-growing innovation sectors shaping our region.
This year, the Innovation in Delaware (iDEa) Conference, in partnership with the Delaware Foundation for Science & Mathematics Education, will spotlight Bluetech and Photonics, industries driving advancements in ocean technology, communications, sensing, and more. Whether you are a technology enthusiast, educator, student, or industry professional, this event will help you understand what these fields are, why they matter, and how they are impacting our region.
Through expert insights, real-world examples, and interactive discussions, attendees will gain a clear picture of how these technologies are fueling economic growth and innovation across Delaware and the Mid-Atlantic.
Our goal is to keep the conversation accessible and engaging while highlighting the real impact these technologies are having in our region. No prior expertise is required.
Who Should Attend
- Technology enthusiasts and innovation leaders
- Professionals interested in Bluetech and Photonics
- Educators, including high school STEM teachers seeking professional development hours
- Researchers and students exploring emerging industries
What to Expect
- Networking with regional innovators and leaders
- A fireside chat exploring Bluetech and its connection to photonics
- A panel discussion on photonics as a driver of regional growth
- Opportunities to ask questions and engage with experts
Professional Development Hours
Educators are eligible to receive professional development hours through PDMS for attending this event.
Course #: 44491
Section #: 92389
Sponsored By
Networking Sponsor
Delaware Prosperity Partnership
Contributing Sponsor
Innovation Space
Community Sponsor
g-Squared Partners
Agenda
🕑: 04:00 PM - 04:30 PM
Registration & Networking
🕑: 04:30 PM - 04:45 PM
Opening Remarks
🕑: 04:45 PM - 05:05 PM
The Landscape and Regional Strength
🕑: 05:05 PM - 05:30 PM
Light Beneath the Surface: How Photonics Powers the Blue Economy
Info: This fireside chat will explore how photonics technologies are advancing the blue economy, from ocean sensing to underwater communication.
🕑: 05:30 PM - 06:20 PM
Photonics as a Regional Growth Engine: From Research to Real-World Impact
Info: This panel discussion will explore how photonics is driving regional growth, from research and innovation to real-world applications and commercialization.
🕑: 06:20 PM - 06:30 PM
Audience Q&A
🕑: 06:30 PM - 07:00 PM
Networking
Where is it happening?
Wilmington University, 320 North Dupont Highway, New Castle, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 45.00
