Following its first three sessions’ resounding success, Innovate Newport announced today that its Industry Spotlight Series is back for its fourth installment.
More details from Innovate Newport below;
Join us on July 25th, from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM at Innovate Newport for an enlightening Industry Spotlight event focused on the Defense Industry.
The event will begin with opening remarks by event Host Molly Donohue Magee, CEO of the Undersea Technology Innovation Consortium (UTIC) and CEO of SENEDIA, the alliance for Defense Tech, Talent, and Innovation. Colin Jackson, Chairman of Strategic and Operational Research at the US Naval War College, will moderate the session. The panel discussion will delve into the Rhode Island Defense Ecosystem, addressing its challenges, opportunities, and showcasing both established and emerging defense companies.

The distinguished panel includes:
• Vic Ricci: Chief Technology Officer at Naval Undersea Warfare Center • Eliza Van Reen: Founder & CEO of Circadian Positioning Systems
• Nelson Mills: Founder & CEO of VATN Systems
• Jim Owens: Founder and Principal of Nautilus Defense
• Tommy Hendrix; General Partner; Decisive Point Ventures
Rhode Island and Southeastern New England serve as a hub for undersea technology, boasting some of the most innovative undersea technologies globally. In addition to established companies, our region hosts numerous innovative startups with applications potentially relevant to defense.
“The defense industry is an engine of innovation nationwide, and especially here in Rhode Island, where billions of dollars in economic activity is generated and thousands of military leaders and civilian employees are employed in high-wage, high-tech, high-demand careers,” said Molly Donohue Magee, CEO of SENEDIA and UTIC. “As the hub for undersea technology and submarine shipbuilding, Rhode Island, is an important contributor to our National Security.”
Whether you’re directly involved in the defense industry, have clients within it, invest in defense related ventures, are an investor, a student potentially entering the workforce, or simply interested in the defense industry, this event is for you.
Continuing the success of our sold-out sessions in the Industry Spotlight Series, this event promises even deeper insights, networking opportunities, and a comprehensive understanding of the defense sector.
Admission to the Defense Industry Spotlight is complimentary, with refreshments provided by sponsors Kitchen Companion and Newport Craft Brewing & Distilling. However, due to limited seating availability, registration is required, and early registration strongly encouraged.
Following the event, attendees are encouraged to continue their evening in the vibrant Broadway District restaurant scene, conveniently located just blocks away from Innovate Newport.
For defense-related startups seeking to showcase their businesses, Innovate Newport offers a unique opportunity for engagement and exhibition, free of charge. Interested startups can reserve their exhibit table HERE.
The Industry Spotlight Series extends its gratitude to its series sponsors: Full Sail Management, OCTO Product Development, Locke Lord LLP, The Business Development Company, and People’s Credit Union. Special acknowledgment is also reserved for event title sponsors SENEDIA, the alliance for Defense Tech, Talent, and Innovation and the Undersea Technology Innovation Consortium.
“We’re thrilled to continue the momentum of the Industry Spotlight Series with our upcoming event focused on the defense industry,” commented Mollie Frazer Williams, Director of Innovation & Entrepreneurship. “We encourage all interested individuals to join us for an enlightening evening of discussion and networking.”
For more information and to register for the event, please visit Eventbrite.
About the Industry Spotlight Series: The Industry Spotlight Series aims to provide a platform for industry leaders, professionals, and enthusiasts to engage in meaningful discussions and explore emerging trends across various sectors. Each session of the series features prominent speakers and thought-provoking discussions on pertinent topics shaping today’s business landscape.
Upcoming Events in the Series:
• Material Science & Composites – October 10, 2024
• Software & Business Services – November 7, 2024

