Events
Community & programs
Where KifCure shows up statewide
From farmer informational sessions to field days and industry forums, KifCure partners with IH RISE across Illinois so growers, manufacturers, and community partners can meet the materials supply chain in person.
Next on the calendar
Upcoming
Mon Aug 17, 2026 · 6:00 PM · Mendota, IL
IH RISE for Growing Opportunities
Farm tours, workshops, and discussions on industrial hemp production, cooperative development, conservation practices, and regional infrastructure. Exact location provided upon registration.
- Industrial hemp production & farmer participation
- Transportation, processing, and research pathways
- Future IH RISE programs and funding opportunities
Archive
Past events
IH RISE programs where KifCure was on site, plus KifCure-hosted workshops and grower sessions.
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Jun 1, 2026
CRI Symposium
I Hotel and Illinois Conference Center · Champaign, IL
Kelly Burke spoke on infrastructure innovation and a community-centered model for regional infrastructure deployment at the Cannabis Research Institute symposium.
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Apr 23, 2026
Creative Banking Seminar
Mendota Civic Center · Mendota, IL
IH RISE Executive Director Tracy Hill spoke on renewable energy projects alongside the Illinois Finance Authority Climate Bank and Public Finance programs.
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Apr 2, 2026
Science and Spirituality Center
IH RISE booth · community outreach
IH RISE hosted a booth and answered questions on industrial hemp, regenerative agriculture, and rural infrastructure pathways.
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Mar 31 – Apr 2, 2026
International Biomass Conference & Expo
Nashville, TN
IH RISE was listed as an industry collaborator for the Northern Illinois University College of Engineering and Technology booth, highlighting faculty and student research in bioplastics and materials.
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Mar 11, 2026
Industrial Hemp Farmer Informational Event · College of DuPage
Technical Education Center · Glen Ellyn, IL
Panel with Kelly Burke (IH RISE), Brandon Smith-Natara, Jarett Burke (KifCure), and Tracy Hill.
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Feb 25, 2026
Industrial Hemp Farmer Informational Event · Southern Illinois University
Gower Translational Research Center · Carbondale, IL
Farmer-centered session on planting, harvesting, weed management, offtake agreements, and emerging bio-based materials markets, with SIU and Illinois Apex Accelerator partners.
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Feb 4, 2026
Industrial Hemp Farmer Informational Event · Emerald Acres
Virgil, IL
Kelly Burke joined by Andrew Bish (Hemp Feed Coalition) and Jarett Burke (KifCure) on grain vs. fiber production, equipment needs, crop insurance, and 2026 grow-season contracts.
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Jan 7, 2026
Industrial Hemp Farmer Informational Event · Illinois Valley Community College
Oglesby, IL
Panel with Kelly Burke, Dr. Jennifer Timmers, Dr. Karla Gage, Ben Adolph (Merge Impact), and Jarett Burke (KifCure).
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Dec 3, 2025
Industrial Hemp Farmer Informational Event · Mendota Civic Center
Mendota, IL
Opening session of the statewide series with Kelly Burke, Dr. Mahdi Vaezi, Brandon Pitcher, and Jarett Burke (KifCure).
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Jun 26–27, 2025
2025 NIHH Hemp Building Workshop
Northern Illinois Hemp Hub
Hands-on exploration of hempcrete science, natural building finishes, and industrial hemp materials for healthier construction.
Learn more -
Mar 4, 2025
Soil Health Week: How Industrial Hemp Impacts Soil Health
Soil Health Week program
Presentation on industrial hemp and soil health, with insights from Kelly Burke on real-world applications and market opportunities.
Learn more -
Feb 26, 2025
KifCure 2025 Hemp Grower Informational Series I
Virtual discussion
First installment covering industrial fiber and grain varieties alongside cannabinoid crops such as CBD and CBG.
Watch full discussion
Stay connected
Hosting a session or need a speaker?
Reach KifCure about materials conversations, or follow the full IH RISE calendar for the next farmer and community program.