- Opening Keynote: Sam Rad – A futurist, anthropologist, entrepreneur, and author, Sam Rad (Samantha Radocchia) explores the societal impact of exponential technologies. In her keynote, Radical Next: The Operating System for the Future, she will guide attendees through the radical changes reshaping industries and offer insights on how to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
- Lunch Keynote: Jim Knight – A renowned keynote speaker and author, Jim Knight is an expert in organizational culture and leadership. Known for his high-energy presentations, he will share insights on building a dynamic and engaging workplace culture, drawing from his experience leading Global Training for Hard Rock International.
- Closing Keynote: Sean Swarner – A world record-holding adventurer and two-time cancer survivor, Sean Swarner has conquered some of the world’s toughest challenges, including summiting Mount Everest with one lung. In his keynote, Defying the Odds: Lessons in Resilience and Purpose, he will share his extraordinary journey and strategies for overcoming obstacles.
- 81 scholarships to individuals pursuing a technology career at universities in the region
- 6 scholarship endowments
- 55 organizations have received funds since G2I’s inception in 2006
- community organizations to support their technology needs
- schools and educational organizations
- organizations supporting technology growth in the region
2025 GATEWAY MEDIA
Gateway to Innovation Conference Returns April 30 with Inspiring Keynotes and Premier Networking for IT Professionals
ST. LOUIS – The Gateway to Innovation (G2I) conference, the region’s largest single-day event for IT professionals, returns to America’s Center in St. Louis on April 30, 2025.
The annual conference brings together nearly 1,500 technology leaders, experts, and innovators for a full day of keynotes, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities while supporting technology needs in the local community through a unique giveback program. G2I net proceeds are donated to support a wide variety of technology and education needs in the greater St. Louis area.
For more information and to register, visit https://www.g2iconference.com.
This year’s lineup features three dynamic keynote speakers who will challenge, inspire, and equip attendees with strategies for success in an era of rapid technological change:
"Gateway to Innovation is more than just a conference—it’s an opportunity for IT professionals to learn from world-class speakers, engage with peers, and contribute to the greater good in our community," said David Berndt, G2I Conference Co-chair and Senior Partner at Experience On Demand. "This year’s event will continue our tradition of inspiring innovation and supporting technology education."
In addition to these powerful keynotes, attendees will gain access to breakout sessions covering the latest trends and challenges in IT, leadership, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. The event provides unmatched networking opportunities, connecting IT professionals across various industries.
"We are thrilled to bring together top technology leaders and innovators for a day of learning and networking," said Trisha Crump, G2I Conference Co-chair and Senior Product Manager - Technical at Mastercard. "With an outstanding lineup of speakers and engaging breakout sessions, this year’s event is set to be one of our best yet."
Beyond professional development, G2I has a strong philanthropic mission. Since its inception, the conference has contributed more than $3.3 million to support technology needs in local nonprofits, start-ups, scholarships, educational programs, and STEM initiatives.
About Gateway to Innovation: Gateway to Innovation is the premier annual collaboration and networking event for IT Professionals in the St. Louis region. Gateway to Innovation inspires innovation through premier educational opportunities led by the industry’s top leaders, provides an opportunity to share best practices and fosters collaboration with colleagues who face challenges and opportunities in our fast-paced industry. Since the first event in 2006, Gateway to Innovation has donated more than $3.3 million for IT scholarships and for technology-related grants to St. Louis area educational and non-profit organizations. More information can be found at www.g2iconference.com or by contacting Kristin Tucker at 314-276-7600.
Futurist and Entrepreneur Sam Rad to Open Gateway to Innovation 2025 with a Bold Vision for the Future
Renowned Speaker Will Explore the Radical Changes Reshaping Technology, Business, and Society
ST. LOUIS – The Gateway to Innovation Conference (G2I) is excited to announce Sam Rad (Samantha Radocchia)—futurist, entrepreneur, and best-selling author—as the opening keynote speaker for the 2025 conference on April 30 at America’s Center Convention complex in downtown St. Louis.
For more information and to register, visit www.g2iconference.com.
Rad, a four-time tech entrepreneur and founder of Radical Next, is known for her thought-provoking insights on AI, blockchain, immersive realities, and the future of human connection. She has advised organizations ranging from the United Nations and the World Economic Forum to the Federal Reserve Bank, helping business leaders navigate rapid technological transformation.
“Sam Rad is exactly the kind of bold thinker we need to kick off Gateway to Innovation 2025,” said David Berndt, G2I Conference Co-chair and Senior Partner at Experience On Demand. “Her ability to connect emerging technologies with real-world business challenges will give our audience an edge in navigating the future.”
Rad’s keynote, “Radical Next: The Operating System for the Future,” will explore how exponential advancements in AI, immersive realities, and quantum computing are accelerating change at an unprecedented pace. She will challenge attendees to rethink their industries, careers, and the very fabric of society as these innovations redefine the way we work and live.
“The rate of change in technology is unlike anything we’ve ever seen,” said Trisha Crump, G2I Conference Co-chair and Senior Product Manager - Technical at Mastercard. “Sam Rad will challenge us to move beyond reacting to trends and instead harness them to create new opportunities.”
Gateway to Innovation is the region’s premier technology conference, bringing together CIOs, executives, and industry leaders to explore innovative trends, exchange ideas, and build connections. Since its inception, the event has contributed more than $3.3 million in conference proceeds to organizations supporting non-profits, technology education, and workforce development.
About Gateway to Innovation: Gateway to Innovation is the premier annual collaboration and networking event for IT Professionals in the St. Louis region. Gateway to Innovation inspires innovation through premier educational opportunities led by the industry’s top leaders, provides an opportunity to share best practices and fosters collaboration with colleagues who face challenges and opportunities in our fast-paced industry. Since the first event in 2006, Gateway to Innovation has donated more than $3.3 million for IT scholarships and for technology-related grants to St. Louis area educational and non-profit organizations. More information can be found at www.g2iconference.com or by contacting Kristin Tucker at 314-276-7600.
Sean Swarner to Deliver Closing Keynote at 2025 Gateway to Innovation Conference
Inspirational Speaker, Adventurer, and Cancer Survivor to Share Lessons on Resilience and Purpose
ST. LOUIS, MO – The Gateway to Innovation (G2I) Conference is thrilled to announce that Sean Swarner, a world record holder, best-selling author, and two-time cancer survivor, will serve as the closing keynote speaker at the 2025 G2I Conference on April 30 at America’s Center.
The Gateway to Innovation Conference is the St. Louis region’s premier technology event, bringing together thousands of IT professionals, business leaders, and innovators for a full day of insightful keynotes, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities.
Swarner’s incredible journey—from surviving two terminal cancer diagnoses to becoming the only person in history to conquer Mount Everest, the highest peaks on all seven continents, ski to both the North and South Poles, and complete the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon—all with just one lung—is a testament to the power of perseverance, self-belief, and purpose-driven living. His story has been featured on ESPN, CBS, NBC, ABC, FOX, CNN, and in an Emmy-nominated Amazon film.
“G2I is about innovation, perseverance, and pushing boundaries,” added Trisha Crump, G2I Conference Co-chair and Senior Product Manager - Technical at Mastercard. “Sean’s message of resilience and purpose aligns perfectly with our mission to equip IT professionals with the motivation and strategies to thrive in their careers and beyond.”
“Sean’s story is nothing short of extraordinary,” said David Berndt, G2I Conference Co-chair and Senior Partner at Experience On Demand. “His ability to overcome seemingly impossible obstacles and achieve greatness will inspire our attendees to approach their own challenges with resilience and determination.”
Registration for the 2025 G2I Conference is now open. For more information and to secure your spot, visit www.g2iconference.com.
About Gateway to Innovation: Gateway to Innovation is the premier annual collaboration and networking event for IT Professionals in the St. Louis region. Gateway to Innovation inspires innovation through premier educational opportunities led by the industry’s top leaders, provides an opportunity to share best practices and fosters collaboration with colleagues who face challenges and opportunities in our fast-paced industry. Since the first event in 2006, Gateway to Innovation has donated more than $3.3 million for IT scholarships and for technology-related grants to St. Louis area educational and non-profit organizations. More information can be found at www.g2iconference.com or by contacting Kristin Tucker at 314-276-7600.
Jim Knight to Headline 2025 Gateway to Innovation Conference with High-Energy Keynote on Organizational Culture
Former Hard Rock International Executive and Best-Selling Author to Share Insights on Leadership and Culture Transformation
ST. LOUIS, MO – Gateway to Innovation (G2I), the St. Louis region’s premier single-day event for technology professionals, has announced that Jim Knight, renowned business culture catalyst and former Hard Rock International executive, will be one of three keynotes at the 2025 Gateway to Innovation Conference on April 30, 2025, at America’s Center Convention Complex.
Known for his dynamic rock ‘n’ roll-infused approach, Knight will present the midday kenote “Culture That Rocks: How to Amp Up Your Company’s Culture and Deliver Sustainable Results.” Drawing from his decades of experience leading Hard Rock International’s Global Training and Development, Knight will provide actionable strategies for cultivating strong leadership, elevating corporate culture, and enhancing customer experiences.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jim Knight to G2I 2025,” said David Berndt, G2I Conference Co-chair and Senior Partner at Experience On Demand. “His ability to blend engaging storytelling with practical business insights will leave attendees with powerful takeaways on how to build a thriving, innovative workplace culture.”
G2I is known for delivering world-class keynote presentations, hosting insightful breakout sessions on emerging technology trends, and fostering collaboration among IT professionals. Registration for the 2025 Gateway to Innovation Conference is now open at https://www.g2iconference.com.
“Jim Knight brings an unmatched energy and expertise to the conversation about corporate culture,” said Trisha Crump, G2I Conference Co-chair and Senior Product Manager - Technical at Mastercard. “His keynote will inspire IT professionals and business leaders alike to rethink how they shape their company’s identity, engage employees, and drive long-term success.”
How to Win Big and Live Fearlessly? Ask Siri at Gateway to Innovation 2023!
Keynote Siri Lindley, World Champion Triathlete, Shares How to Master Emotions and Create Unstoppable Momentum
St. Louis, MO – Gateway to Innovation (G2I) April 26, 2023 at America’s Center Convention Complex features Siri Lindley, the world’s former #1 ranked triathlete and a cancer survivor, with an afternoon keynote about mastering emotions, meaning, and mindset to create a winning culture in organizations.
G2I is the area’s premier single-day event for technology professionals to learn from the best minds in the industry, share best practices, and promote technology in the St. Louis region. Registration is open at www.g2iconference.com
Siri shares fear-shattering strategies for changing the thoughts, habits, and behaviors that hold people and organizations back.
During her professional career, she dominated the International Triathlon Union World rankings. But Siri battled chronic performance anxiety, self-doubt, and obsessive-compulsive disorder before finding a coach who helped transform her into a champion. She’ll also share her most difficult battle, defeating a 10% chance of surviving a diagnosis of Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
“Siri’s story is truly inspiring. And her message will resonate with G2I attendees looking for ways to help their teams develop a culture of winning and accountability,” said Jill Rausch, G2I Conference Co-chair and Digital Program Director at World Wide Technology. “This is a closing keynote you will not want to miss.”
The St. Louis area’s IT community counts on G2I to deliver world-class keynote presentations, provide dozens of breakout sessions on innovative technology topics, and facilitate connections with colleagues to discuss best practices.
Proceeds from each G2I conference are given back to individuals and organizations with technology-related needs in the St. Louis area. Since the conference began, G2I has contributed more than $2.65 million to support non-profit organizations, individual scholarships, endowed scholarship funds at area universities, STEM education initiatives, and financial support for the region’s technology ecosystem.
G2I Opening Keynote Offers Optimistic Roadmap for Navigating a Business World that has ‘Fundamentally Changed Forever’
Disruption Strategist Shawn Kanungo to Explore Solutions at the Intersection of Creativity, Business and Technology
St. Louis, MO – Gateway to Innovation (G2I) gets started April 26, 2023 at America’s Center Convention Complex with opening keynote Shawn Kanungo exploring how companies can meet customer and employee expectations in a business world that will never be the same following the global pandemic.
G2I is the area’s premier single-day event for technology professionals to learn from the best minds in the industry, share best practices, and promote technology in the St. Louis region. Registration is available at www.g2iconference.com
Kanungo is described as a Disruption Strategist who spent 12 years at Deloitte collaborating with leaders to help plan for the opportunities of disruptive innovation. Since then, he’s worked with hundreds of organizations with digital transformation in a world that he notes has ‘fundamentally changed forever.’
Kanungo is a partner at Queen & Rook, where he advises leading organizations and executives on disruptive trends. Inc. Magazine selected him as one of the “100 Most Innovative Leaders”.
“Shawn has an exceptional approach to helping organizations think about dealing with new realities of doing business in a post-COVID world,” said Jill Rausch, G2I Conference Co-chair and Digital Program Director at World Wide Technology. “Developing a disruption strategy is now a necessity, with technology being adopted with incredible speed. We are sure G2I attendees will get a great value from Shawn’s thought-provoking message.”
The St. Louis area’s IT community counts on G2I to deliver world-class keynote presentations, provide dozens of breakout sessions on innovative technology topics, and facilitate connections with colleagues to discuss best practices.
Proceeds from each G2I conference are given back to individuals and organizations with technology-related needs in the St. Louis area. Since the conference began, G2I has contributed more than $2.65 million to support non-profit organizations, individual scholarships, endowed scholarship funds at area universities, STEM education initiatives, and financial support for the region’s technology ecosystem.
___________________________________________________________
Security Mentalist with St. Louis Connections to Deliver Keynote at Gateway to Innovation Conference April 26
Gary S. Chan Uses Game Theory and Math to Help Businesses Improve Information Security Systems
St. Louis, MO – Gateway to Innovation (G2I), the St. Louis region’s premier single-day event for technology professionals, has selected Gary S. Chan as one of three keynote presenters for the April 26, 2023 conference at America’s Center Convention Complex.
Mr. Chan is a noted security mentalist who uses game theory and math to predict and influence the future. Using a fun-filled and highly interactive experience during his keynote, Chan will demonstrate that it is possible to predict human behavior with unfailing accuracy and influence people to "freely" make the choices you want.
Currently a System VP and CISO at a large U.S.-based healthcare system, Chan previously served as President of the FBI St. Louis Citizens Academy Alumni Association and Technology Officer for the Greater St. Louis Association of Certified Fraud Examiners.
“We are thrilled to have Gary be a key part of G2I 2023,” said Eric Gorham, G2I Conference Co-chair and CIO at REJIS Commission. “He will deliver a highly entertaining keynote loaded with useful information to help technology professionals think about their security problems in new and better ways.”
The St. Louis area’s IT community counts on G2I to deliver world-class keynote presentations, provide dozens of breakout sessions on innovative technology topics, and facilitate connections with colleagues to discuss best practices.
Registration for the 2023 G2I Conference is now available online, with a special Early Bird rate currently in effect, at https://www.g2iconference.com.
Proceeds from each G2I conference are given back to individuals and organizations with technology-related needs in the St. Louis area. Since the conference began, G2I has contributed more than $2.65 million to support non-profit organizations, individual scholarships, endowed scholarship funds at area universities, STEM education initiatives, and financial support for the region’s technology ecosystem.
About Gateway to Innovation: Gateway to Innovation is the premier annual collaboration and networking event for IT Professionals in the St. Louis region. Gateway to Innovation inspires innovation through premier educational opportunities led by the industry’s top leaders, provides an opportunity to share best practices and fosters collaboration with colleagues who face challenges and opportunities in our fast-paced industry. Since the first event in 2006, Gateway to Innovation has donated more than $2.65 million for IT scholarships and for technology-related grants to St. Louis area educational and non-profit organizations. More information can be found at www.g2iconference.com or by contacting Kristin Tucker at 314-276-7600.
Press Release 3-18-2022
St. Louis Organizations Receive More Than $308,000 For Technology Needs from Gateway to Innovation, Read More >>>
Press Release 3-2-2022
Cutting-Edge IT Breakout Sessions, World-Class Keynotes, Safe Networking Return to America’s Center Convention Complex, Read More >>>
Press Release 2-1-2022
What 'The Guy Who Was Smiling When He Cut Off His Arm' Can Teach Technology Professionals, Read More >>>
Press Release 1-18-2022
Lessons in Leadership and Innovation from a "Guardian of the Galaxy", Read More >>>
2022 GATEWAY MEDIA
St. Louis Organizations Receive $339,319 For Technology Needs from Gateway to Innovation
Region’s Premiere Technology Conference Total Giveback Exceeds $2.65 Million
St. Louis, MO – August 30, 2022 - Gateway to Innovation (G2I), the annual one-day conference for St. Louis area technology professionals that returns conference proceeds to the community, has awarded $339,319 to 22 St. Louis area organizations. The organizations were recognized for receiving G2I community giveback at an event Thursday hosted by Greater St. Louis, Inc.
“St. Louis is a resurgent city. And Gateway to Innovation, both the gathering of tech community at the conference as well as this critically important giveback, is part of that resurgence,” said Jason Hall, CEO, Greater St. Louis Inc. “These organizations will use the dollars they receive to keep increasing access, keep making this region globally competitive, and make sure we are the most inclusive tech community in this country. And if we do that right, St. Louis is going to win this decade.”
Record-setting G2I Giveback in 2022
Since the first G2I in 2006, 100 percent of conference net proceeds have been returned to worthy organizations that demonstrate technology-related needs including IT education, non-profit organizations with technology needs, and in support of technology start-ups in the St. Louis Area. With Tuesday’s awards, G2I community giveback totals more than $2.65 million.
“To all the volunteers, corporations and sponsors that continue to make this conference a success for our region, we thank you for your continued support,” said Eric Gorham, CIO at REJIS Commission and G2I Executive Committee member.
These 22 organizations received contributions at today’s event:
“We congratulate the recipients of these community giveback awards and thank them for their outstanding dedication to our community,” said David Kocs, Principal at TDK Technologies and member of the G2I Executive Committee.
The impact of the G2I community giveback to date includes these milestones:
The 2023 G2I conference will be held April 26 at America’s Center Convention Complex in downtown St. Louis.
About Gateway to Innovation: Gateway to Innovation is the premier annual collaboration and networking event for IT Professionals in the St. Louis region. Gateway to Innovation inspires innovation through premier educational opportunities led by the industry’s top leaders, provides an opportunity to share best practices and fosters collaboration with colleagues who face challenges and opportunities in our fast-paced industry. Since the first event in 2006, Gateway to Innovation has donated more than $2.65 million for IT scholarships and for technology-related grants to St. Louis area educational and non-profit organizations. More information can be found at www.g2iconference.com or by contacting Kristin Tucker at 314-276-7600.
Press Release 3-18-2022
St. Louis Organizations Receive More Than $308,000 For Technology Needs from Gateway to Innovation, Read More >>>
Press Release 3-2-2022
Cutting-Edge IT Breakout Sessions, World-Class Keynotes, Safe Networking Return to America’s Center Convention Complex, Read More >>>
Press Release 2-1-2022
What 'The Guy Who Was Smiling When He Cut Off His Arm' Can Teach Technology Professionals, Read More >>>
Press Release 1-18-2022
Lessons in Leadership and Innovation from a "Guardian of the Galaxy", Read More >>>
2021 Gateway Media
Press Release 7/27/2021
Gateway to Innovation 2021 Keynote - Heather 'Lucky' Penney, Read More >>>
2020 GATEWAY MEDIA
Press Release 1-23-2020
G2I 2020 Selects 'Artist for the People' Phil Hansen as Afternoon Keynote, Read More >>>
2019 Gateway Media
Press Release 9-9-2019
Gateway to Innovation Surpasses $2 Million in Donations for IT Education, Non-profit Technology and the St. Louis Tech Eco-system, Read More >>>
Press Release 5-1-2019
St. Louis Region's Largest Technology Conference Ascends Community Giveback Milestone, Read More >>>
Press Release 3-13-2019
Gateway to Innovation Honored for Promoting Stronger Communities, Read More >>>
Press Release 2-21-2019
Innovation and Music Converge for a Powerful G2I Closing Keynote, Read More>>>
Press Release 1-22-2019
Boaz Rauchwerger to Deliver High-Energy, Action-Oriented Keynote at G2I 2019, Read More>>>
Press Release 1-15-2019
St. Louis Region's Premiere Technology Conference Announces Alison Levine as Opening Keynote, Read More>>>
2018 Gateway Media
St. Louis Business Journal Article
Press Release 8-15-2018
Region's Largest IT Conference to Donate $311,00 for Tech Needs Read More>>>
Press Release 5-23-2018
St. Louis Region's Largest IT Conference Draws 1,500 Technology Professionals Read More>>>
Press Release 5-4-2018
G2I Co-Sponsors Major Initiative to Address The Tech Jobs Gap Read More>>>
Press Release 5-1-2018
Finalists for Innovative IT Project & Leader of the Year Selected Read More>>>
Press Release 4-23-2018
Registration Underway for Gateway to Innovation Read More>>>
Press Release 2-27-2018
Nominations Open for Top Tech Leaders and Most Innovative IT Project Awards Read More>>>
Press Release 2-15-2018
Mel Robbins - One of the World's Most In-Demand Speakers - Bring "The Five Second Rule" to G2I 2018 Read More>>>
Press Release 1-4-2018
Co-founder of Online Business 52Kards Brings Psychology of Illusion to May 16 Conference Read More>>>
Press Release 1-10-2018
DonorsChoose.org Founder & CEO Charles Best to Open Gateway to Innovation 2018 Read More>>>
2017 Gateway Media
Gateway To Innovation Press Release
G2I Community Giveback Event 2017 from Gateway to Innovation on Vimeo.
KMOX Podcast interview with Scott McNealy
Scott McNealy Interview: KMOX Podcast Read More>>>
2017 Gateway to Innovation Awards Finalists
2017 Gateway to Innovation Awards Finalists Read More>>>
2017 Gateway to Innovation Scholarships
2017 Gateway to Innovation Scholarships Read More>>>
2017 Keynote Announcement: Platon
2017 Keynote Announcement: Platon Read More>>>
2017 Keynote Announcement: Scott McNealy
2017 Keynote Announcement: Scott McNealy Read More>>>
SIM Scholarship Guidelines
2017 SIM Scholarship Guidelines Read More>>>
2017 Keynote Announcement: Johnny Cupcakes
2017 Keynote Announcement: Johnny Cupcakes Read More>>>
2016 Gateway Media
Press Release 5-25-2016
$100,000 in Cash Awards Support St Louis Start-ups, Innovation & Non-Profits with IT Needs Read More>>>
Press Release 5-25-2016
More Than 1,500 IT Professionals Attend Record-Setting Gateway to Innovation Conference in Downtown St. Louis Read More>>>
Press Release 4-13-2016
Scott Kelly Speaks During Moderated Q&A for Gateway to Innovation May 11 Read More>>>
Press Release 3-21-2016
Nominations Now Open for Top Tech Leader and Most Innovative IT Project Read More>>>
2015 Gateway Media
Press Release 4-14-2015
2015 Gateway to Innovation Award Finals
Read More>>>
Press Release 4-06-2015
News Release: G2i Giveback 2015
Read More>>>
Press Release 2-09-15
Nominations Now Open for Top Tech Leader and Most Innovative IT Project
Read More>>>
Press Release 2-03-15
Nationally Renowned Keynote Speakers Showcase Premiere St. Louis IT Conference April 29
Read More>>>
Press Release 1-19-15
St. Louis, MO – Gateway to Innovation, the major annual conference that delivers high caliber seminars and educational opportunities for more than 1,200 Midwest IT professionals, will feature nationally renowned keynotes, a former Homeland Security Secretary and the AT&T technology and operations leader on its 2015 convention agenda. Gateway to Innovation will be held April 29, 2015 at the America’s Center Convention Complex in downtown St. Louis.
Read More>>>