OKC-based i2E takes over OK Investment Forum programs
BYLINE: Kirby Lee Davis
I2E has merged the Oklahoma Investment Forum into its operations. Officials said this will give i2E rights to the Southwest Capital Conference and other long-standing OIF programs. It also will incorporate similar entrepreneur and investor programs. This new arrangement starts at 11:30 a.m. Oct. 18 in Tulsa with the Innovator and Entrepreneur luncheon series, its programs alternating between Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Its goal is to facilitate technology commercialization and economic development, even as it raises awareness of the state's research and technology capabilities. I2E (www.i2E.org
) is a private, not-for-profit Oklahoma corporation focused on growing the state's technology-based entrepreneurial economy. Having managed many OIF programs for several years, i2E will phase out the OIF brand while maintaining its functions. "In recent years, i2E has become the recognized statewide authority for technology-based entrepreneurial growth in Oklahoma," said Brett Crane, board chairman of OIF. "Both organizations believe that in this new format with i2E providing its expertise, the programs and services now available to OIF members and the entrepreneurial and angel investing community will be significantly enhanced. " The forum started in 1989 with the mission of building bridges between entrepreneurs and sources of capital. Its programs have included Future Value Magazine, the Venture of the Year Awards and the Southwest Capital Conference, among others. Over the past 10 years, OIF has helped 30 companies raise more than $250 million in capital. It has hosted more than 780 out-of-state, high-risk investors, as well as several nationally recognized authorities on entrepreneurship and small-business development. Starting at the 100 Technology Center, at the corner of Second Street and Cincinnati in downtown Tulsa, the inaugural Innovator and Entrepreneur luncheon will offer two presentations: l University of Tulsa professor of biology Charles R. Brown will discuss his research of the West Nile virus. l Chief executive of eMotion Media, Brian McMurray, will detail how he developed his proprietary software for multimedia productions. "Our goal is to connect industry leaders and professionals with innovators and entrepreneurs," said Tom Walker, executive vice president and chief operating officer for i2E. "This is an exciting time in Oklahoma, as the level of technology development has reached new heights in recent years. This series has been developed to raise the level of awareness across the board. " Audience members will be invited to participate in a roundtable discussion of the commercial development possibilities for the featured research and technology. Officials said a similar format will be followed for all Innovation and Entrepreneur luncheons. Seats are limited. To learn more, call Sarah Seagraves at (405) 813-2403.