TECHNOLOGY & ENTREPRENEURSHIP SUMMIT

Wednesday, September 24th, 2025

EVENT PROGRAM

9:00 AM - (Jewett Theater)

Entrepreneurship Keynote: Kevin Ervin Kelley

11:00 AM - (Jewett Theater)

Cybersecurity Isn’t Optional: Real Talk on Cyber Threats and Smart Protection

Get ready for a no-fluff conversation packed with practical wisdom and hard-learned lessons on staying safe online. This panel will empower you with the tools to protect what matters most—your business and your peace of mind.

PANELISTS:

  • James Villarrubia

  • Dr. Joshua Pauli

  • TBA

12:00 PM - Networking Lunch

Food Trucks: Pickled Pig & Pop’s Bayou Mama’s

11:00 AM - (Blue Room)

- Chef Brave Heart

1:00 PM -
Thinking Sideways: Curiosity in the Age of AI
(Jewett Theater)

Technology Keynote: James Villarrubia

In an era of rapid AI disruption, organizations and individuals are scrambling to innovate and stay ahead of the curve. In this keynote, James Villarrubia explores how curiosity - especially about strange, overlooked stories from history, science, fiction, and film - can reveal powerful insights about humanity and technology. By thinking sideways, we uncover the hidden patterns that help us make sense of change, spark innovation, and build a more thoughtful, resilient future in the age of AI.

2:00 PM -
Boldly Pursuing the Improbable: Coastal Venture Capital in the Dakotas
(Jewett Theater)

As the Founder and CEO of Thread, North Dakota' second, and most recent, company to receive Series A funding, Josh shares his improbable journey, determined to break the coastal venture capital barrier.

POWERED BY:

10:00 AM - The Innovation Engine: Driving Ideas Forward with Creative Force (Jewett Theater)

At the crossroads of creativity and commerce, this conversation dives into how thoughtful design and bold entrepreneurship can reimagine spaces, solve problems, and inspire meaningful growth in both business and community.

PANELISTS:

  • Kevin Ervin Kelley

  • Steven McKay

  • Ben Victor

10:00 AM - (Blue Room)

  • Ashley Podhradsky