WHAT: Innovate Springfield, the University of Illinois Springfield’s business incubator, will host the next event in its Founders, Failure and Fun speaker series, featuring Brandon Yates, an early-stage founder, tech entrepreneur and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign alumnus.

WHEN: 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12

WHERE: Innovate Springfield, 15 S. Old State Capitol Plaza, Springfield

DETAILS: Yates is the co-founder and CEO of Deepwalk, a scanning software company that automates ADA transition planning for municipalities with backlogs. His company placed third in the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign COZAD New Venture Challenge. He was recently recognized on the 2024 Forbes 30 Under 30 list in the Transportation and Mobility category.

The Founders, Failure and Fun speaker series provides an opportunity for attendees to hear stories of both successes and challenges in the startup world while gaining valuable insights into entrepreneurship and innovation. The event also offers networking opportunities with like-minded professionals and concludes with a casual social hour.

The event is free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged but not required.