Unveiling Oklahoma’s Thriving Innovation Scene: Insights from the Global Entrepreneurship Congress

This special episode of "Innovate That" was recorded live at the Global Entrepreneurship Congress in Indianapolis. Jennifer McGrail is joined by Wade Dunn from Gradient in Tulsa and Kristin Garcia from The Verge in Oklahoma City.

Together, they discuss Oklahoma’s rapidly growing startup ecosystem, share insights from the global event, and address common misconceptions about innovation in their state. Highlighting collaboration, community, and global connections, the episode showcases Oklahoma’s emergence as a vibrant hub for entrepreneurship and innovation, ready to compete on the world stage.

This episode explores how Oklahoma is making waves nationally in entrepreneurship and startup support. Tune in as these leaders discuss capital access, founder momentum, and what it takes to build thriving ecosystems from the ground up.

Introduction to the Podcast and Guests (00:00:00) Hosts introduce the special episode, the Global Entrepreneurship Congress, and guests Wade Dunn and Kristin Garcia.

Gradient Innovation Hub Overview (00:00:25)

Wade Dunn describes his role and explains Gradient’s mission, facilities, and partnerships in Tulsa.

The Verge Innovation Hub Overview (00:01:01)

Kristin Garcia introduces The Verge, its services, and its role in Oklahoma City’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Oklahoma at the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (00:01:34)

Discussion about Oklahoma’s presence at the Congress and its comparison to global innovation ecosystems.

Reflections on Oklahoma’s Global Standing (00:01:55)

Wade shares his impressions of Oklahoma’s progress and challenges compared to other global ecosystems.

Global Entrepreneurship Week and International Connections (00:02:57)

Kristin discusses her role in Global Entrepreneurship Week and the value of international networking.

Misconceptions About Oklahoma and Innovation (00:03:46)

The hosts discuss common misconceptions about Oklahoma, using sports analogies and recent events.

Changing Perceptions Through Entrepreneurship (00:04:50)

Kristin shares experiences of representing Oklahoma at national events and surprising others with the state’s innovation.

Personal Surprises and Growth in Oklahoma (00:06:02)

Wade and Kristin reflect on their initial misconceptions and the innovative reality they discovered in Oklahoma.

Oklahoma’s Tech and Startup Success Stories (00:07:07)

Wade highlights the diversity and success of tech startups in Oklahoma, emphasizing their growth and impact.

Native Oklahoman’s Perspective on State’s Reputation (00:07:59)

The host shares personal experiences with outsiders’ perceptions and the opportunity to showcase Oklahoma’s broader achievements.