The Power of Momentum: Why We Host the Momentum Awards
At 1871, the Momentum Awards are more than just a celebration; they are a testament to the strength and innovation of the Chicagoland tech community. But beyond the accolades and applause, there’s a deeper purpose driving this event—one rooted in our mission to inspire, equip, and support leaders positively changing the world through innovation and entrepreneurship. This mission fuels everything we do, and the Momentum Awards are a critical part of how we achieve it.
“The Momentum Awards are a powerful testament to the future we are shaping together. They’re not just about recognizing past successes, but about fueling the limitless potential that lies ahead. Each time we celebrate these innovators, we’re making a bold investment in a brighter, more inclusive future—one where every dream is given the chance to take flight. Every dollar raised reinforces our collective commitment to creating a world where innovation thrives and opportunities abound,” says Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871.
A Legacy of Resilience: The Story Behind 1871
Our name, 1871, is a tribute to the year of the Great Chicago Fire—a catastrophic event that devastated much of the city. Despite the immense loss, the fire sparked an era of unprecedented innovation, growth, and rebuilding. The people of Chicago transformed the city into a global hub of commerce, industry, and creativity. They embraced new ideas, technologies, and ways of thinking, laying the foundation for a modern, thriving metropolis.
This spirit of resilience, innovation, and community is the cornerstone of 1871’s identity. Founded in 2012 by JB Pritzker and a team of visionary individuals, 1871 was established to be a catalyst for the next wave of innovation in Chicago. Pritzker envisioned a space where entrepreneurs could come together, share ideas, and build the future—much like the city’s leaders did after the Great Fire. Today, 1871 stands as a beacon of that same indomitable spirit, fostering a community where ideas ignite, and dreams become reality.
Fueling Innovation Through Philanthropy
When you support 1871, you’re not just supporting a nonprofit—you’re supporting the Technology community. The Momentum Awards serve as a cornerstone for our fundraising efforts, directly supporting 1871’s mission. 86% of every dollar goes directly to support programming.
At 1871, we believe there is nothing more important than entrepreneurship in driving economic development and job growth. We want people to build where they live, create their own path to wealth creation, develop jobs, and invest back into their communities. We aspire to partner with all 77 of Chicago’s neighborhoods (currently partnered with 27) and to have an early-stage founder group that mirrors the demographics of Chicago (currently at 30% woman, 50% non-white). We meet founders where they are in terms of the maturity of their idea/product, who they are as a leader and person, and in what industry/technology they are building. Real impact comes from giving every founder, leader, and innovator access to the education, community, support, and introductions to customers, capital, and team talent they need to grow and thrive.
Key Data Points:
- ~30% of the startups in our community are led by women founders.
- 50% of our members identify as non-white
- Since 2012, 1871 has supported the creation of ~ 15,000 jobs in the Chicagoland area.
- Our programs have helped tech startups secure funding, totaling over $3.7B.
Inspiring and Equipping Innovators at All Stages
At 1871, we meet you where you are and support a community that spans “I have an idea” through “I am trying to scale” and “I am trying to drive innovative change at the enterprise level”. Our community is designed to foster innovation at all stages, creating an environment where entrepreneurs and leaders can have peer-to-peer interactions, experience fortunate collisions, meet milestones, and find a clear pathway forward.
Through our efforts, we help founders unlock roadblocks, gain the tools to be heard, and soar as they tackle their respective blockers on innovation. This holistic support is essential for founders to thrive, whether they are just starting out or scaling their businesses to new heights.
Celebrating Excellence: The 8 Award Categories
The Momentum Awards feature eight distinct categories, each representing a vital part of our community and the broader tech ecosystem. These categories honor the outstanding achievements of founders, leaders, and companies who are driving innovation and making a significant impact. Our past winners include companies like 1440, Active Campaign, Cameo, Farmer’s Fridge, Rheaply, SpotHero, SMS Assist, and TastyTrade, among others!
1. Rising Star Award: Recognizes an early-stage tech company that is well-positioned to become a market leader.
2. Momentum Award: Awarded to a growth-stage tech company with the strongest potential to emerge as a market leader.
3. CityLIGHTS Award: Honors a late-stage tech company that has become a category leader through innovation and growth.
4. Outstanding Tech CEO Award: Recognizes a tech CEO who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and has successfully scaled their company.
5. Industry Disrupter Award: Awarded to a company that has developed an innovative product or service that is disrupting their industry.
6. Social Impact Award: Given to a tech company that has made a significant commitment to social equity and inclusion.
7. Chicagoness Award: Presented to an individual who exemplifies the values of Chicago’s entrepreneurial community and empowers future innovators.
8. Corporate Champion Award: Recognizes a company that has championed the growth of Illinois’s tech industry through community-focused action.
These awards not only celebrate success but also reflect the diversity, resilience, and collaborative spirit that define our community at 1871. They highlight the achievements of those who are not just advancing their own ventures but are also contributing to the greater good of the tech ecosystem. Learn about the 2024 award finalists here.
Investing in Our Core Offerings: Programs, Community, and Resources
The funds raised through the Momentum Awards are directly invested back into our core offerings—our programs, community, and resources. These are the pillars that support the success of startups within our ecosystem.
- Programs: We provide tailored programs that equip founders with the knowledge, mentorship, and skills necessary to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape. These programs are designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are, providing the right support at the right time.
- Community: Our community is a vibrant hub of collaboration and innovation. We create spaces where entrepreneurs can connect, share insights, and form partnerships that drive their businesses forward. Your donations help us sustain and grow this community, ensuring that every entrepreneur has access to the network and support they need.
- Resources: From cutting-edge technology to workspace and beyond, we offer the essential resources that startups need to succeed. These resources empower entrepreneurs to focus on what they do best—innovating and building the future. Your contributions enable us to continue providing these critical tools.
A Celebration with Purpose
While the Momentum Awards is a night of celebration, it is also a call to action. It’s an opportunity for the tech community, investors, and supporters like you to come together and champion the future of innovation. By contributing to this event, you are not just recognizing success; you are investing in the continued growth and success of the tech ecosystem in Chicago and beyond.
Join Us in Making a Difference
We invite you to join us in making a difference. Your support through donations enables us to keep our programs, community, and resources accessible and impactful, ensuring that all entrepreneurs—regardless of their background—have a chance to thrive. When you contribute to 1871, you’re investing in the dreams of countless innovators who are shaping the future. Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more innovative community, one that reflects the diversity and resilience of our city.
The Momentum Awards is more than just an event; it’s a movement. A movement towards a future where innovation knows no bounds, and where every entrepreneur has the opportunity to succeed. We hope you’ll consider donating to support this important cause and help us continue to inspire, equip, and support the innovators of tomorrow.
For more information on sponsorship opportunities or giving please contact our Director of Development at sponsor@1871.com.
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