It’s no secret that the logistics and construction industries have changed drastically during the age of Artificial Intelligence. From increased visibility and transparency, to real-time data tracking, to hazard and risk detection, emerging technologies play a major role in how supply chains and buildings are manufactured today. At 1871’s BuildTech Innovation Summit, innovators, industry leaders, and investors from both industries came together to examine developing trends, demonstrate budding technologies, and create impactful connections that will influence the future.
At Accenture Tower in downtown Chicago, this two-day Summit featured keynote conversations and panels, immersive breakout sessions, a pitch showcase, and startup exposition, all designed to spark inspiration and encourage innovation. “That’s what it’s all about, shining a light on the builders and bold thinkers tackling these challenges,” said 1871 CEO Betsy Ziegler during her opening remarks.
Adaptability is Everything
Day one was all about embracing new technology to create stronger systems. Susana Castella, Supply Chain and IX US Products Lead at Accenture, kicked the experience off with a conversation on building resilient supply chains. “Technology can help us understand in real time how the supply chain, or extended supply chain, is performing,” she said. “It used to be a dream, but now it’s actually possible.” She explained that the three largest barriers to a successful supply chain are an inability to scale, a shaky data foundation, and a poor relationship with machines. Continuing this momentum, attendees sat in on two breakout sessions: Agentic AI in the Supply Chain, hosted by GS1, and Learning from Industry: Mapping the Innovation Landscape.
The main takeaway? Survive and adapt. Don’t be afraid to embrace emerging technologies.
Leading, Mentoring, and Funding the Future
The second day of the BuildTech Innovation Summit commenced with a conversation led by D.G. Macpherson, Chairman and CEO of Grainger. He discussed his journey at Grainger, from running the US supply chain to leading the company. “The biggest surprise for me as the CEO has been how much I’ve had to get involved and learn about the technology world,” he said. Macpherson also emphasized the importance of Chicago, which serves not only as a vibrant backdrop for the company, but as an important representation of the strengths and weaknesses of the supply chain industry.
Another highlight was hearing from Brad Feld, co-founder of Techstars, partner at Foundry, and author of multiple books on entrepreneurship. He led a candid conversation about his “Give First” philosophy, centered around the idea of engaging with people and systems non-transactionally. “A startup community has one purpose and one purpose only: to help founders succeed,” said Feld. He encouraged every attendee to think of one way in which they could help a peer before the Summit’s end. Additionally, he presented signed copies of his newest book, Give First: The Power of Mentorship.
The experience concluded with 1871’s Startup Alley where founders exhibited their solutions and potential investors, partners, and customers had the opportunity to learn about the next wave of innovators. Plus, two startups took home an award from the Pitch Showcase, where they pitched their companies to a live audience and panel of judges. Congratulations to this Summit’s winners!
Judges Choice Award: Jowanza Joseph, Founder and CEO of Parakeet
People’s Choice Award: Ryan Walsh, Founder and CEO of Valqari
About the Innovation Labs
The Supply Chain and Construction Tech Innovation Labs offer focused experiences, designed to connect key figures in the industries and maximize the chances of high-impact collisions. Through the Labs, members connect regularly with peers, industry experts, and investors, engage in workshops and learning sessions, and sharpen their competitive edges with strategies discovered at 1871.
The Innovation Labs Portfolio is an exclusive opportunity for growth-stage startups in our Innovation Labs community to be highlighted throughout the year and prioritized for corporate and investor connection opportunities.
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