This special episode of "Innovate That," recorded live at the Global Entrepreneurship Congress, spotlights Oklahoma’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Jennifer McGrail, Wade Dunn (Gradient, Tulsa), and Kristin Garcia (The Verge, Oklahoma City) discuss statewide collaboration, resources, and programs supporting startups—from coworking and accelerators to funding and mentorship.
They highlight the Oklahoma Commercialization Network (OCN) and the involvement of universities, investors, and global partners. The episode celebrates Oklahoma’s growing national and global presence, emphasizing a spirit of innovation, inclusivity, and optimism for the state’s entrepreneurial future.
Introduction & Setting the Stage (00:00:00) Live from the Global Entrepreneurship Congress; overview of Oklahoma’s unique entrepreneurial ecosystem and collaboration.
Oklahoma Commercialization Network (OCEAN) Launch (00:01:27) Introduction of OCEAN, its partners, and its mission to connect founders, investors, and policymakers statewide.
Gradient’s Impact in Tulsa (00:03:30) Description of Gradient’s innovation hub, economic impact, partnerships, and support programs for entrepreneurs at all stages.
The Verge OKC’s Offerings (00:05:35) Overview of The Verge’s coworking, incubator, accelerator, and university partnerships in Oklahoma City.
Mentorship, Advisors, and University Connections (00:06:27) Discussion of mentorship, legal resources, and student involvement through university partnerships.
Community Development & Philanthropy (00:07:32) Role of foundations like Inasmuch in supporting entrepreneurship and community development in Oklahoma City.
Venture Capital & Accelerator Partners (00:08:12) List of VCs, accelerators, and financial supporters involved with Gradient and The Verge.
Acast’s Unique Role & Statewide Programs (00:09:29) Acast’s direct programs, matching grants, and STEM intern industry program for Oklahoma startups.
Expanding Talent Pipeline & Student Opportunities (00:10:42) Expansion of internship eligibility to career tech students and the importance of growing local talent.
Prototype & Manufacturing Support (00:12:06) Resources like Inventors Assistance Service and Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance for prototyping and manufacturing help.
Federal Funding & SBIR Programs (00:12:40) OK Catalyst’s support for federal SBIR awards and an example of dual-use technology commercialization.
Rural Innovation & Farm Bureau Accelerators (00:14:00) Oklahoma Farm Bureau’s rural accelerator programs and partnerships supporting rural entrepreneurs.
Venture Capital Funds & Rural Funding (00:15:08) Explanation of Oklahoma’s fund of funds, rural-specific VC, and loan programs for startups.
Resource Directories & Where to Find Help (00:16:31) Websites and directories for finding entrepreneurial resources across Oklahoma.
The Future of Innovation in Oklahoma (00:17:00) Speakers’ visions for Oklahoma’s future: AI, tech hubs, collaborative spirit, and growing national recognition.
Boomerang Oklahomans & Quality of Life (00:19:41) Return of former residents, affordable living, and new cultural and tech developments in Oklahoma.
Global & National Partnerships (00:21:22) Involvement of major brands like Microsoft and Google in Oklahoma’s innovation ecosystem.
Closing Remarks (00:21:41) Oklahoma’s bright future on the global stage; invitation to join the state’s innovation journey.
