Welcome to the 6th annual WIIC (We Inspire Innovate & Connect)!

Join us June 24th and 25th for a curated, two-day experience bringing together healthcare leaders, investors, and innovators. Hosted across Put-in-Bay and Middle Bass Island.

This is not a traditional conference. WIIC blends high-level discussions, meaningful networking, and immersive island experiences designed to spark real opportunities and partnerships.

Day 1 | The Crew’s Nest – Put-in-Bay

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10:00 AM-Noon: Healthspan Over Lifespan: Biohacking, Prevention, and the Science of Aging**

Who truly owns your health—and are we focusing more on living longer or living better? Explore the growing movement around personal ownership of health and the shift from simply extending lifespan to improving quality of life. Through conversations on biohacking, preventative wellness, alternative health partnerships, and the power of understanding personal health data, attendees will gain insight into how technology, lifestyle, and proactive care are reshaping the future of health.

Featured guests include: Mihir Patel, MD with JumpStart Ventures, Dr. Sandeep “Deep” Palakodeti, MD, MPH with Velocity Health, Nick Bigrig with Aligned Health, and Jacob Calcei, MD and Yianni Apostolakos, MD from University Hospitals.

Noon-1:00 PM: Lunch & Keynote Speaker: Lori Stewart Gonzalez, President of Ohio University

1:00-3:30 PM: The Future of Healthcare-Who wins in the next 5 years?

What does the future of surgical care look like? This session explores how new technologies, advanced tools, AI, and evolving care models are reshaping surgery, improving outcomes, and creating more efficient, patient-centered care. This panel will highlight what has changed and what is driving the next generation of surgical innovation.

Featuring: David Crawford, MD, Medical Director JIS Research Institute, Brian Cohen, MD, Cohen Orthopedics, Lacey Dyer, BSN, RN, CASC VP of Clinical Operations at Surgical Investors & Advisors, John Bring, RN, BSN VP of Innovation & Outcomes Sequel Ortho, Beth Gard, MSN, RN, ONC, Chief Nursing Officer Sequel Ortho, Elisa Auguste, CASC, Administrator Precision Care Surgery Center, and Greg DeConciliis, PA, Administrator, Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites.

3:30 PM-6:00 PM BREAK

6:00-8:30 PM: Dinner & Deal Flow Dock

The Deal Flow Dock showcases some of the top innovators, emerging technologies, and forward-thinking companies shaping the future of healthcare and business. Designed to spark meaningful conversations and strategic partnerships, this interactive experience gives attendees direct access to founders, investors, and industry leaders driving real-world innovation and growth.

Featuring: Don Roberts with Caracal Products & Services, Jeffrey Stern, and Peeyush Shrivastava from The O.H.I.O. Fund, Hardik Desai, Jumpstart Ventures. To be announced: Deal Flow Dock Company highlights

Day 2 | Put-in-Bay + Middle Bass Island

8:00 AM-Noon: Private Fund & Investor Session Rattlesnake Island Club

An intimate breakfast with focused discussions on regional investment, healthcare growth, and business expansion.

Attendance is limited, and invitations are extended. Additional participation may be requested based on availability.

10:00 AM Booths Open The Crew’s Nest

11:30 AM-1:00 PM: Ohio Economic Forum & Lunch The Crew’s Nest

Hosted by the Ottawa County Improvement Corporation, this session explores forward-thinking strategies that drive regional growth, strengthen partnerships, and create long-term innovation. Featured speakers from JobsOH, The O.H.I.O. Fund, Greater Sandusky Partnership, and RGP Northwest Ohio.

6:00 PM: WIIC’s Signature Soirée | Lonz Winery

WIIC’s main event brings together Ohio’s business leaders, regional investors, and innovation leaders for a premier networking experience. Guests will enjoy unique connections, industry conversation, and an unforgettable waterfront setting designed to strengthen partnerships and celebrate collaboration.

*Transportation will be provided, to and from, South Bass Island to Middle Bass Island.

Expect a high-level audience of surgeons, executives, investors, and business leaders, creating an environment where real conversations lead to real outcomes.

Dress Code: Coastal casual attire is recommended: Khakis, polos, dresses, and linens.

Transportation: We recommend taking the Miller Ferry out of Catawba Island to South Bass Island. Guests can show their WIIC registration for 20% off their round-trip ticket. Miller Ferry Directions and Parking Information.

Guests also have the option of taking the Jet Express out of Port Clinton. Jet Express Directions and Parking Information.

All transportation from South Bass Island to Middle Bass Island on Thursday evening will be provided. The Miller Ferry will be departing at 5:30PM.

Lodging: We recommend booking at Bayshore Resort.
Phone number:1-419-464-7816

https://www.bayshoreresortpib.com/

Fundraising: The WIIC is proud to support both the Lake Erie Foundation and Caracal Academy through our charitable fundraising efforts during WIIC 2026.

Throughout the event, attendees will have the opportunity to give back through our Silent Auction, Reverse Raffle, and ChipIn Golf Challenge, with proceeds benefiting these outstanding organizations and their important missions.

To pre-register for the ChipIn Golf Challenge and explore the exciting prizes available, please visit the link below.

https://www.chipin.golf/contests/wiic-lakeside-challenge-2026

Contact: Please contact Lilly Grogean or Melissa Ross with any further questions.

Lilly@legacygrouphq.com

Melissa@legacygrouphq.com