Illinois Cybersecurity Summit Focuses on Protecting Public Sector

Annual event to address evolving cyber threats and strengthen resilience for state and local government

Feb. 3, 2026 at 7:31pm

The Illinois Public Sector Cybersecurity Summit, taking place on April 8, 2026 in Springfield, is designed to bring together IT security leaders, risk managers, and public officials to confront the increasing cyber challenges facing state and local government. The event will provide attendees with practical strategies to strengthen cyber resilience, protect critical infrastructure, and navigate the complexities of an evolving threat landscape.

Why it matters

As government systems and digital services become more interconnected, the public sector faces growing cybersecurity risks that threaten critical infrastructure and public trust. The Illinois Cybersecurity Summit aims to equip public sector professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to proactively address these evolving threats and lead with confidence.

The details

The summit will feature expert-led sessions, peer exchange opportunities, and real-world case studies to help attendees strengthen their cybersecurity posture. Key topics will include modernizing systems, improving digital services, and building resilient government operations. The event is organized by the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology and is open exclusively to members of the public sector at no cost.

  • The Illinois Public Sector Cybersecurity Summit will take place on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
  • A past event was held on April 15, 2025 at the President Abraham Lincoln DoubleTree in Springfield.

The players

Brandon Ragle

State Chief Information Officer and Acting Secretary of the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology.

Wiz

A sponsor of the past Illinois Public Sector Cybersecurity Summit held in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“The Illinois Public Sector Cybersecurity Summit is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we work together with a shared purpose.”

— Brandon Ragle, State Chief Information Officer and Acting Secretary of the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology

“As we modernize our systems and reimagine the digital services that support millions of Illinois residents, we have a unique opportunity to build a more connected, efficient, and innovative government.”

— Brandon Ragle, State Chief Information Officer and Acting Secretary of the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology

What’s next

The Illinois Public Sector Cybersecurity Summit is an annual event, with the next one scheduled for April 8, 2026 in Springfield. Other upcoming events of interest to attendees include the Photogrammetry, 3D Visualization, and Lidar Community of Practice Conference (P3DL) at NGA from July 27-31, 2026, the Tennessee Digital Government Summit 2026 on May 5, 2026, and the Arizona CIO/CTO Forum 2026 on November 5, 2026.

The takeaway

The Illinois Cybersecurity Summit underscores the critical importance of proactive cybersecurity measures and cross-sector collaboration to protect the public sector from evolving threats. By equipping government professionals with the necessary knowledge and tools, the event aims to strengthen cyber resilience, safeguard critical infrastructure, and maintain public trust in an increasingly digital world.