September 13-16, 2025
Marriott Marquis | Chicago, IL

Innovation

Starts Here

At the 2025 PDMA Ignite Innovation Summit, you will learn directly from leaders at MIT, Snap-On, Dell, and Meta. Think bold, practice creative problem-solving and real-world execution, and join expert innovators who are shaping our future.

Meet the Speakers

We’ve curated a dynamic lineup of innovation leaders, changemakers, and bold thinkers. These are the voices sparking new ideas, challenging the status quo, and shaping the future of product and innovation. 

Innovation is coming. And so are the voices that will spark it.

  • Ben Brenton

    Ben Brenton

    CIO
    Snap-on

  • Robin Champ

    Robin Champ

    Vice President, Strategic Foresight
    LBL Strategies

  • Jod	Kaftan

    Jod Kaftan

    Digital Experience Design Sr. Director
    Launch by NTT Data

Join PDMA for our FREE virtual mini-sessions-a sneak peek at what’s ahead at the Ignite Innovation Summit this September. Open to all, no Summit registration required.

Pre-Summit Sessions

August 6 Innovation Lab Snapshot:
Essential AI Tools for Product Management Success

Product managers no longer need to wait for development resources to bring their ideas to life. This virtual mini-session demonstrates how four AI tools can transform you into a one-person product powerhouse. You'll learn to build functional prototypes without coding, create compelling product videos for market testing, and maximize the potential of large language models for product strategy. Join us for hands-on demonstrations of Claude, Gemini, Notion, and Bolt in action. Discover how to rapidly prototype your concepts, test market viability through AI-generated content, organize and prioritize your product ideas, and establish thought leadership—all without traditional technical barriers.

August 12 Innovation Lab Snapshot:
Sharpen Your Launch Before the Competition Does

Think You’re Ready to Launch? Let’s Find Out — Before the Market Does.

You only get one shot at a successful product launch. What if you could pressure-test your release like a competitor would—without the costly consequences of finding out too late?

Discover a proven, low-risk way to challenge your product release and strategy before the market does. This virtual mini-session introduces why War Gaming and Pre-Mortems are critical to a successful launch—and offers a sneak peek at how to sharpen your strategy before your competitors do.

What’s New This Year

  • Mastermind with the Brightest Innovators

    Instead of passive sessions, engage in expert-facilitated problem-solving discussions that tackle real challenges in product innovation. You’ll leave with crowdsourced solutions, fresh perspectives, and connections with top innovators.

  • Micro-Certification Courses

    Micro-Certification Courses

    These two micro-certification classes are based on the PDMA Body of Knowledge and are designed to develop your skills and expose you to critical tools that can be immediately applied in your job. In addition, you will receive a micro-certification certificate and digital badge that will allow you to promote your capabilities in these areas through social media and your resume.

  • Learn from Product Trailblazers & Innovation Leaders

    Get insights straight from top product leaders, industry trailblazers, and innovation pioneers. Our speakers don’t just talk about innovation, they’re out there doing it, leading it, and redefining it.

  • Bridge the Gap Between Research & Reality

    Cutting-edge research often stays in academia, but not here. Our Research to Reality session will connect leading product researchers with practitioners, ensuring you get science-backed, real-world solutions to your biggest innovation challenges.

  • Instant Breakthroughs from Lightning Talks

    Big ideas, zero fluff. These high-energy, 5-10 minute power sessions deliver mind-blowing insights, cutting-edge strategies, and actionable takeaways. Think TED Talk energy, but laser-focused on driving innovation in product development.

Walk Away with
Actionable Strategies

Every session, every talk, every connection is built around real-world application. No vague concepts, just practical, high-impact strategies you can implement the moment you get back to work.

Why Attend

Network Through
Action

Networking shouldn’t feel forced. Engage in interactive sessions where you’ll connect by collaborating, problem-solving, and innovating together. You’ll leave with more than business cards; you’ll leave with game-changing relationships.

Experience Innovation
Like Never Before

This isn’t just another summit. It’s a high-impact innovation experience. You’ll be surrounded by bold ideas, energetic discussions, and hands-on problem-solving sessions that will ignite your creativity and drive real impact.

Convince Your Boss

Investing in your attendance at the 2025 PDMA Ignite Innovation Summit isn’t just about professional development—it’s a strategic move that delivers real value to your company.

  • A Direct ROI for Your Organization – Gain insights that can lead to improved processes, stronger product performance, and better business results. The investment in this summit pays off through enhanced efficiency and innovation.

  • Cutting-Edge Industry Knowledge – Learn from top product leaders and innovation pioneers who are driving the future of product management. Stay ahead of trends that will shape your industry.

  • High-Value Networking – Build connections with key industry players, potential partners, and like-minded professionals who can help solve challenges and uncover new opportunities for your company.

Lock in Your Ticket!

All Access Pass

September 13-16, 2025

Gain admission to all four days of the Ignite Innovation Summit and JPIM Research Forum. The All Access Pass grants you entry to all sessions, featuring renowned keynote speakers, energetic discussions, and bonus access to post-summit content.

Summit
Pass

September 14-16, 2025

Access to the PDMA Ignite Innovation Summit sessions that begin Sunday, September 14 and run through Tuesday, September 16, 2025. Hear from our keynote speakers, engage in our planned breakout sessions, workshops and access post-summit content.

JPIM Research Forum Pass

September 13-14, 2025

The JPIM Research Forum, held on Saturday, September 13 and Sunday, September 14 offers networking opportunities with scholars, practitioners, the JPIM’s Editorial Team and the PDMA community.

Registering a group? Contact us at pdma@pdma.org to learn about our group discounts!

Thank you, Sponsors!

Platinum Sponsors

Silver Sponsor

JPIM Research Forum Reception Sponsor

Future Innovators Sponsor