Join us!
The Rural Innovators Collab — Heartland is an exclusive gathering for regional rural leaders committed to developing tech economy ecosystems in their communities.
The Rural Innovators Collab — Heartland event will be held on September 29, 2026, in Emporia, Kansas.
Emporia will provide a unique backdrop for our conversations, combining historic character with forward-thinking energy and strong local momentum in innovation and creativity.
This first-of-its-kind regional gathering brings together communities working with CORI across the Heartland to advance local tech economies. You’ll have the opportunity to:
- Share successes and strategies with peer communities
- Connect leaders and build relationships for regional collaboration
- Learn actionable approaches to tech-based economic development
- Leverage assets to strengthen your local ecosystem
You are also invited to attend our 6th annual Rural Innovation Network Summit event!
The Summit will follow the Rural Innovators Collab — Heartland event and will be held in Emporia, KS. Click here to learn more about the Rural Innovation Network Summit. Please note that you will have the option to confirm your attendance at the Summit on the registration form below. You do not need to fill out the form on the Summit page.
Register to Attend the Collab and Summit!
Registration closes on August 7, 2026
Agenda
Full agenda and session descriptions coming soon!
9:00 to 10:30 a.m. CT
Optional Breakfast
10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. CT
Programming
6:00 to 8:00 p.m. CT
Evening Networking Reception
Plan Your Trip
Arrival
Programming will begin on Tuesday, 9/29 at 10:30 a.m. CT, so please plan your arrival accordingly if you are driving that morning. A limited number of rooms will be available in a room block at the Fairfield hotel for the night of 9/28 for those who decide to drive in the day before.
Departure
We encourage you to stay for the full duration of both the Rural Innovators Collab — Heartland and Rural Innovation Network Summit. The Summit will conclude on October 1, 2026, with optional time for connection and exploring Emporia until 12:00 p.m. CT. Please feel free to depart at your convenience.
Hotel Information & Recommendations
We recommend the following accommodations for your stay in Emporia. We've arranged room blocks with some of these accommodations, as noted below. There is a limited number of rooms available in the room blocks, and they will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites
The newest hotel in Emporia, offering a modern and comfortable stay with consistently top-rated service.
We will be providing a room block at this hotel for 9/28 – 10/1; more information on booking to follow soon.
Address: 3010 Eaglecrest Dr., Emporia, KS 66801 | Distance to downtown Emporia: 3.5 miles (10-minute drive)
Key amenities:
Complimentary breakfast
Free wifi
Complimentary on-site parking
Free coffee/tea in the lobby
Indoor saltwater pool
Fitness center
Hampton Inn
A well-established, highly-rated option known for its dependable experience.
We have a room block for this hotel for 9/29 – 10/1- book here
Address: 2900 Eaglecrest Dr., Emporia, KS 66801 | Distance to downtown Emporia: 3.2 miles (10-minute drive)
Key amenities:
Complimentary breakfast
Free wifi
Free parking
Indoor pool
Fitness center
Pet-friendly rooms
The Gufler Mansion
A charming historic bed & breakfast in a beautifully restored 1917 mansion, offering a unique and intimate alternative to standard hotels.
Address: 612 W 12th Ave, Emporia, KS 66801 | Distance to downtown: 1 mile (4-minute drive or 20-minute walk)
Key amenities:
Complimentary breakfast
Free wifi
Library
Sunken garden/greenhouse
Walking distance to historic Emporia
Note: Limited rooms available.
For more information, send an inquiry through their website.
The Holiday Inn
A reliable, budget-friendly choice for attendees looking for a straightforward, comfortable stay.
Address: 3007 W. 18th Ave, Emporia, KS 66801 | Distance to downtown Emporia: 3.6 miles (10-minute drive)
Key amenities:
Complimentary breakfast
On-site parking
Wifi
Heated indoor pool
Fitness center
Pet friendly
Ground Transportation Information & Recommendations
We recommend booking a rental car for your stay or coordinating carpooling with other members. There are limited ride-share options in Emporia.
Questions & Information
Contact Sydney Read, Associate, Events and Storytelling, with questions at
sydney.read@ruralinnovation.us