Coppin State’s 2026 Economic Inclusion & Innovation Research Conference Connects Students to Opportunity Through Innovation and Research
Annual convening brought together leaders, researchers, and students to advance economic mobility through innovation and applied research
BALTIMORE — Coppin State University’s School of Graduate Studies and Research hosted the 2026 Economic Inclusion & Innovation Research Conference (EIIRC) on Thursday, April 30. This year’s theme, “Pathways to Opportunity: Intrapreneurship, Innovation, and Economic Mobility,” reflected the university’s continued focus on connecting research, education, and workforce outcomes.
Sponsored by the West North Avenue Development Authority (WNADA) and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Iota Lambda Omega Chapter, the conference brought together more than 500 participants from corporate, government, academic, and community sectors. The daylong event featured research presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions designed to equip college and high school students with tools to navigate and succeed in today’s evolving economy.
The conference emphasized how intrapreneurship—innovative thinking within organizations—can accelerate education-to-employment pathways and support long-term economic advancement for youth and young adults. Attendees engaged with business leaders, faculty, and researchers advancing solutions at the intersection of innovation, workforce development, and community impact.
“This conference reflected Coppin’s commitment to connecting research, innovation, and real-world outcomes for our students and the communities we serve,” said Anthony L. Jenkins, PhD, president of Coppin State University. “We are intentional about creating spaces where ideas lead to action, where students see clear pathways to opportunity, and where partnerships help drive meaningful economic mobility.”
Originally launched in 2016 as the Economic Inclusion Conference at Coppin (EICAC) by the university’s Center for Strategic Entrepreneurship, the conference evolved into a leading platform for cross-sector collaboration. Reimagined as EIIRC 2026, the event expanded its focus by integrating research with practical application, strengthening workforce readiness, and economic empowerment through initiatives such as Excel 2.0.
“The 2026 Economic Inclusion & Innovation Research Conference reflected Coppin State University’s commitment to advancing research that fuels equity, innovation that drives opportunity, and ideas that translate into lasting economic impact,” said Ronald Williams, PhD, interim dean of the School of Graduate Studies and Research. “By convening bold thinkers and emerging scholars, we are shaping solutions that expand access, empower communities, and redefine what inclusive growth can achieve.”
The conference also highlighted student-led innovation and emerging research focused on workforce integration, while strengthening partnerships across education, policy, business, and community stakeholders. Participants heard from a diverse group of leaders, including educators, elected officials, funders, and community advocates, all working to build a more connected and data-informed ecosystem that supports student success and economic advancement.
