Last week, I had the privilege of attending the UIDP conference in Chicago, and I’m still buzzing from the energy and ideas that filled every corner of the event. In a year where higher education and research have faced unprecedented challenges, from the disruptive rise of artificial intelligence to shifting public policy, the UIDP gathering stood out as a beacon of optimism and forward momentum.
Unlike other conferences we've attended this year, UIDP Chicago was vibrant. There was a palpable sense of hope and determination among the attendees. Leaders from top universities and some of the world’s most innovative corporations came together not just to talk, but to collaborate—actively exploring ways to drive global technological innovation. It was exciting to be in the room, surrounded by people who not only think about the future but build it.
InfoReady serves more than 250 Carnegie R1's and R2’s, the largest research institutions in America, it was great to see many of our clients there.
I was especially grateful for the chance to connect with so many brilliant minds. The conversations I had—whether over coffee, in breakout sessions, or during evening receptions—were filled with fresh ideas and practical solutions. Everyone brought something to the table, and the spirit of partnership was real. It was impressive to see how committed people are to bridging the gap between academia and industry, and how much progress is already being made.
On behalf of InfoReady, I was proud to share how we’re helping to catalyze this unfolding transformation. Our platform is designed to accelerate innovation by making it easier for universities and industry partners to collaborate. Whether it’s streamlining corporate-sponsored funding competitions or tracking engagement and outcomes, InfoReady empowers institutions to move faster and smarter.
At UIDP, we showcased how InfoReady supports the full lifecycle of research collaboration—from discovery to impact. Our tools help universities broadcast the right opportunities, collect the best proposals, connect with the right partners, and ensure that promising ideas don’t get lost in administrative bottlenecks.
For industry, we provide an innovation portal — an opportunity to attract the best ideas, inventions and research proposals from the best institutions in the world. And, planned for 2026, we will help to provide a window into the innovation ecosystem of higher education, making it easier to find collaborators, fund research, and bring new technologies to market.
What struck me most during the conference was how aligned everyone seemed to be around a shared mission: accelerating innovation to solve real-world problems. And that’s exactly where InfoReady fits in. We’re not just a software company—we’re a partner in progress. Seeing our role in this ecosystem recognized and embraced by so many leaders was deeply rewarding.
As I reflect on the week, I feel energized and hopeful. UIDP Chicago reminded me that even in a time of rapid change and uncertainty, collaboration is our greatest strength. I’m excited for what’s ahead and proud that InfoReady is helping to shape the future of research and innovation.
Bhushan Kulkarni, CEO
InfoReady Corp.