The Innovation Celebration Returns September 22!
August 12, 2026
OIPC has been celebrating UAF innovators with the IDEA Awards since 2015. Prior to 2020, we also celebrated the UAF-affiliated innovators from the Alaska State Committee for Research (SCoR) Innovation Hall of Fame inductees and researchers who received a USPTO patent. The IDEA Awardees, Innovation Hall of Fame inductees, and new USPTO patent awardees were honored at our Innovation Celebration held every year. Well, this year, we are thrilled to bring it back! OIPC is hosting an evening of celebration to recognize the remarkably talented and innovative minds at UAF!
We welcome all who would like to attend The Innovation Celebration for mingling, food, and inspiring presentations on September 22 at 5:30 p.m. The night begins with a 21+ cocktail hour honoring the last three years of UAF-affiliated Innovator Hall of Fame inductees and USPTO patent recipients. Each honoree will receive a plaque that will hang permanently on the Innovators’ Wall in the Wood Center.
At 6:30 p.m., we will honor this year's IDEA Award winners with an all-ages dinner and presentation. The IDEA Awards recognize entrepreneurial individuals who have developed innovative approaches to research, teaching, and service. Anyone who submits a disclosure to our office is in the running for these six awards.
Our guest list includes UAF researchers, staff, students, deans, and directors, alongside business leaders and community partners. Space is limited to 100 guests, so please register early.
Find more information and register for the event here: Innovation Celebration Registration
For any questions, reach out to uaf-oipc@alaska.edu