Park Points – October 7, 2024

Welcome back to another edition of Park Points, a quick recap of news, information, and events relevant to KU Innovation Park’s mission and vision.

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MidxMidwest returns in November

Applications are open for founders and investors to attend MidxMidwest, one of the region’s leading venture capital summits. In its third year, the invitation-only event brings together tech companies ready to raise capital and VCs prepared to support them.

  • The agenda includes breakout sessions and curated one-on-one networking opportunities.
  • “We hope that these interactions at MidxMidwest are really productive and create more activity for Kansas City and the surrounding area,” said Dan Kerr, a Flyover Capital partner and co-founder of the event, to Startland News.
  • Those interested in attending can fill out an application as a founder, investor or ecosystem supporter. Applications close on October 10.
  • KU Innovation Park is proud to be an ecosystem supporter of MidxMidwest.
ICYMI: The Park launches Oread Angel Investors network

Speaking of capital, KU Innovation Park launched its newest initiative, the Oread Angel Investors network, this week. This group supports KU-affiliated startups with capital, mentorship and resources.

  • This new network supports KU-affiliated startups by connecting them with alumni, faculty and friends for investment opportunities.
  • Members are passionate about supporting entrepreneurs and bringing cutting-edge ideas to life through access to exclusive investment opportunities.
  • You can apply to the network if you’re ready to invest or raise! Check out frequently asked questions here.
News from the Hill
  • KU Chancellor Dr. Doug Girod sat down with Mark Shiflett, co-founder of Park company Icorium Engineering and distinguished professor, in his weekly update. They discussed a $26 million NSF grant, sustainable refrigerant technologies and the company.
  • The Jayhawks welcomed their largest freshman class in the university’s 159-year history. The new class – 5,323 students – broke last year’s record-setting class size by 1.2%.
  • A new KU study shows human values and expertise improve AI reliability.
Entrepreneurship Opportunities
Showcase Your Life Sciences Innovation

BioNexus KC is collecting data for the upcoming Kansas City Regional Life Sciences Industry Census.

  • Companies directly involved in life sciences research and development count. So do organizations that support life sciences R&D, like CROs.
  • Participants get to showcase their innovative work, gain exposure and contribute to a thriving ecosystem.
  • You can check out the 2021 report here. Have questions? Ask them here. 
Upcoming Events at the Park
  • Discover the keys to unlocking essential funding for your startup from founders who have been there and done that. Join a panel of experienced entrepreneurs at the Park’s next Lunch and Learn on Thursday, October 24. RSVP here.

Have news and notes to share? Let Lindsey Slater, vice president of strategic communications, know by clicking here.