1871 Announces New Resident BuiltWorlds

CHICAGO — 10.15.24 — Global innovation hub 1871 is thrilled to announce that BuiltWorlds, an innovative network of companies, startups, and thought leaders, has become a partner and a tenant in their office in downtown Chicago’s historic Merchandise Mart. On November 1st, BuiltWorlds officially joins a body of incredible tech startups that have opened offices in 1871’s iconic space. Their residency is more than just a physical space — it also represents a commitment to making Chicago a leader in global Construction Tech.

“The birthplace of the skyscraper, Chicago’s heritage in architecture, engineering, construction, and real estate is unsurpassed. Today, BuiltWorlds is proud to be partnering with 1871 to build on that legacy,” said Matt Gray, Founder and Executive Chairman. “In partnership with 1871, we look forward to creating a vital, collaborative hub for the sector’s innovators from both here in Chicago as well as around the world. We aim to be a resource and advocate as these industry leaders develop the solutions that will fuel the future of this critical $13 trillion industry.” 

“At 1871, we thrive on building a community where innovation and legacy intersect,” said Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871. “Chicago’s historical leadership in construction makes BuiltWorlds an ideal partner for us. Their daily presence in our space brings an energy that will inspire new ideas, collaborations, and solutions. We’re excited to unite our networks and create opportunities for our members to engage with this transformative sector while contributing to Chicago’s continued prominence in construction tech.”

Together, 1871 and BuiltWorlds will elevate Chicago’s impact in the global Built World ecosystem. As an official tenant, 1871’s facilities will support their network & community and anchor BuiltWorlds’ programming in the city.

1871 and BuiltWorlds will also collaborate to create a Construction Tech Lab. As the official execution partner, BuiltWorlds will help define problem areas for the industry inclusive of corporates, startups, and growth stage players and co-lead the programming. Members of both organizations will have the opportunity to learn from each other, diving deep into the new focus area of construction tech as well as broader topics in technology through 1871’s Innovation Labs. 

About BuiltWorlds

BuiltWorlds is the leading global platform, informing and connecting innovators in the buildings and  infrastructure sectors. The company was founded in 2014 on the belief that connection, innovation and informed decision making leads to better business outcomes. Since its establishment, BuiltWorlds has built a robust, engaged community of buildings and infrastructure leaders, innovators and stakeholders.

Through focused research and accompanying analysis, a robust digital platform, and a growing schedule of educational conferences, summits and events, BuiltWorlds equips and enables members with differentiating insights into vetted strategies and proven technologies, providing unique market advantages and business opportunities. They are the industry’s nexus, where information meets application.

About 1871

1871, a nonprofit global innovation hub, exists to inspire, equip, and support early-stage, growth-stage, late-stage, and corporate innovators in building extraordinary businesses. 1871 is home to ~500 early-stage startups, ~250 growth and late-stage companies, and ~60 corporates, and is supported by an entire community focused on accelerating their growth and creating jobs in the Chicagoland area. The member experience includes virtual and in-person access to workshops, events, mentorship, and more. The nonprofit organization has 350 mentors available to its members, alongside access to more than 200 partner corporations, universities, education programs, accelerators, venture funds, and others. Since its inception in 2012, more than 1,050+ alum companies are still active, have created over 14,700 jobs, and have raised more than $3.7 billion in follow-on capital.