The Advance: Pennsylvania’s Opportunity in Defense Innovation
FEATURE
Pennsylvania has all the ingredients to lead the nation’s defense innovation economy: world-class research institutions, advanced manufacturers, skilled workers, and a growing AI, robotics, energy, and life sciences ecosystem. The opportunity is significant, but realizing it will require stronger coordination across sectors and a clear understanding of where Pennsylvania can differentiate itself. Check out recaps from Day One and Day Two.
Join us for our upcoming webinar as we share key takeaways from the Defense & Innovation Summit and explore what comes next for the Commonwealth.
Date: Wednesday, August 5, 2026
Time: 2:00 to 3:00 PM ET, virtual via Zoom
IN OTHER NEWS
Next Phase of the PATER Study
KeyLogic, LLC will lead the next phase of the PATER Study with the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), helping modernize Pennsylvania’s power grid and put old power plant sites back to work. . . READ THE PRESS RELEASE
Penn State’s Genesis Mission Project
Penn State is leading a U.S. Department of Energy Genesis Mission project building neurosymbolic AI for smart manufacturing, and Team Pennsylvania is a key partner.
Read More: Penn State’s announcement & DOE’s Announcement
$320 Million for Regional Energy Innovation
The RETI Consortium was selected as one of 12 NSF Regional Innovation Engines nationwide, bringing up to $321 million to the region. Team Pennsylvania is part of the partnership alongside West Virginia University, Carnegie Mellon, University of Pittsburgh, and 60+ other organizations. . . READ ON
AGRICULTURE SPOTLIGHT
Urban Agriculture Week
Pennsylvania’s agriculture sector grows from the ground up, in the communities doing the work every day. Agriculture Director Kelly Kundratic spent the week meeting them in person. From rooftop gardens in Philadelphia to community plots in Pittsburgh, Kundratic toured urban farms and spoke with growers about how city-based agriculture is strengthening food access and building stronger neighborhoods across the Commonwealth. . . READ HER REFLECTIONS
Want to know what advanced agriculture really looks like? Hear it straight from Kelly and check out this video!
Ag Progress Days Fireside Chat
Dr. Claudia Schmidt joins Team Pennsylvania to share how Pennsylvania farmers are using new technology, followed by networking and refreshments.
Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Time: 3:30 to 5:00 PM
Location: Red Barn Annex, Ag Progress Days Grounds