The Magic of Momentum Explained

by

For 17 years, the Momentum Awards have been the largest celebration of tech innovation and impact in Chicagoland. But what makes them unique? 

This award ceremony is 1871’s premier signature event, bringing together our entire community of founders, leaders, partners, and supporters annually for a night of celebration and innovation. 

Here’s everything you need to know about the Momentum Awards, its history and evolution, and its impact on the work we do for our tech community! 

View our 2023 recap playlist! 

About the event 

Each year, the Momentum Awards honor the top tech innovators and leaders who are disrupting their industries, building up their communities, & shaping the future.

Our 8 awards: Rising Star, Momentum, CityLIGHTS, Outstanding Tech CEO, Industry Disrupter, Social Impact, Corporate Champion, and Chicagoness, represent key areas of achievement, spanning from idea to Fortune 50.

With awards recognizing early-stage startups, growth and late-stage companies, and corporate innovators, the Momentum Awards celebrates outstanding individuals and companies, no matter where they are in their business journey!

Together, our award ceremony highlights the strength of our community and showcases the ingenuity that arises when innovators are connected with the necessary resources, mentorship, and support system.

The Momentum Awards supports our mission 

As a 501c3 nonprofit, our work is made possible by the generous support of our community. 

The Momentum Awards isn’t just an event—it’s our fuel for the future. Your support helps us inspire, equip, and champion innovators and leaders at every stage of their journey. Whether you contribute to our Annual Fund, become a sponsor, or join us at the event, you’re shaping the landscape of tomorrow’s tech leaders. Let’s build the future together! 

You can also help us recognize the best in tech by nominating yourself, your company, or your peers across our award categories. Nominations open each year during the summer, and your participation will help determine which innovators and leaders make our esteemed group of finalists!

Finally, you can support us by celebrating with our community at the event! Just reserve your ticket and join us in person or virtually for the big day. 

 

The story of the awards

The Momentum Awards predate 1871 itself! The Chicago Entrepreneurial Center (CEC) first introduced the awards in 2007 to bring attention to the people building businesses and growing the community at a time when few viewed Chicago as a top tech startup destination. 

A lot has changed in 17 years! Since our first event, we’ve seen incredible growth in our local tech industry, in large part because of the strength of our community. Every day, founders create meaningful solutions, build new businesses, and scale their companies. Our annual gathering has also evolved to reflect these developments. 

 

The Momentum Awards’ impact

Not only is it one of the best places to connect with some of the brightest stars in tech, but the Momentum Awards also has a long history of recognizing startups that have become leading disruptors in their industries. In fact, it wouldn’t be the first time one of our award recipients became Chicago’s next unicorn! 

You will surely recognize many of our 2023 winners, including  CDW,  Rivet, WeSolv,  ReloShare, 1440, SpotHero, and many others. Read about our 2023 Momentum Awards winners.  

As an attendee, you’ll also see the density and diversity of our community on full display. The Momentum Awards brings together our entire community of members, mentors, corporate sponsors, community and university partners, VCs, alums, and policymakers for an unforgettable night of celebration. It highlights what makes 1871 special—the energy from every fortunate collision with supporters who share the same passion for innovation!

For any questions about Momentum, contact momentum@1871.com

by

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHICAGO — May 29, 2024 — 1871, non-profit global Innovation hub announces the launch of their second annual FoodTech Innovation Lab, running from August to November 2024.  This Lab unites food tech startups with corporate partners, investors, and industry experts to scale innovation and explore how technology can be leveraged to create efficiency and sustainability in designing, producing, and delivering food.  Applications are now open until June 24, 2024.

Nate Cooper, Founder and Managing Partner at Barrel Ventures, returns this year as the Entrepreneur-in-Residence. EX3 Labs, Levy, and World Business Chicago join as 2024 Lab partners.

“In my second year as the Expert in Residence for 1871’s FoodTech Lab, I’m excited to engage with innovative entrepreneurs shaping the future of food,” Cooper said. “The program brings together key players throughout the global ecosystem, and is a unique opportunity to directly support the future of food innovation. I’m thrilled to explore how this year’s founders are solving challenges in the verticals of AgTech, Ingredients, Manufacturing / Packaging, and other high-potential areas for innovation.”

“Tech integration is crucial for efficient and sustainable food systems that meet global demands,” said Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871. “Chicago, a hub for FoodTech innovation, is uniting leaders in Ingredients, Agtech, and Manufacturing and Packaging to develop transformative solutions. The time for healthier and more sustainable food systems is now, and together, we are shaping a future where food is efficient, sustainable, and accessible to all.”

 

FoodTech Innovation Lab 2024 highlights

The Lab is open to the following innovators: 

  • Food tech startups with a product launched in market  and poised to grow
  • Late-stage partners seeking to become an industry expert and influencing major industry outcomes
  • Corporations sitting at the forefront of food tech innovation or seeking to accelerate food tech solutions

There will be a selection process for startups to ensure those admitted to the program have proven readiness and are fit for the 2024 FoodTech Lab. 

An information session on the Lab will take place on 06.13.24 to provide attendees with information on the program structure, how to join the Lab, and the benefits of joining as a cohort member or partner.   

This Lab is designed to connect FoodTech startups, partners, corporate innovators, VCs, and industry experts for four immersive weeks of programming, alternating in virtual and in-person experiences. 

The cohort will meet for one week of programming in August, September, October,and November 2024, ending with a FoodTech Innovation Summit on 11.07.24. 

 

Focus areas 

This Lab focuses on several “focus areas” for cohort members to explore, identify, and collaborate to accelerate innovation within our food system. This year’s program will look at solutions in the food and beverage spaces. 

High-level focus areas include: 

  • Innovative ingredients
  • AgTech 
  • Manufacturing & Packaging Innovation 

Why FoodTech

In today’s global systems, FoodTech innovation is crucial for addressing challenges like sustainability, efficiency, and scalability. By focusing on innovative ingredients, AgTech, and manufacturing & packaging innovation, the cohort will collaborate on developing transformative solutions that improve food production, reduce waste, and ensure a resilient supply chain for the growing population. 

We invite the press and the public to join us in exploring the future of the FoodTech industry. 

 

About 1871 Innovation Labs

The Innovation Labs serve as a dynamic hub for fostering cutting-edge solutions, collaboration, and technological advancement. These labs offer a platform for startups, industry leaders, investors, and venture capitalists to come together to pioneer the future of various industries, including artificial intelligence, cannabis, supply chain, and beyond. 

Typically running for three or four months, the labs are at the forefront of innovation, connecting key players in the tech ecosystem to drive transformative change and accelerate the development of groundbreaking solutions for today’s challenges,

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.

For media inquiries, please contact:

J Blaszczykiewicz, Sr. Director of Marketing at 1871

j@1871.com 

press@1871.com 

by

1871 Announces Inaugural InsurTech Innovation Summit: Pioneering the Future of Insurance Technology

CHICAGO— May 28, 2024 — Non-profit global innovation hub 1871 is hosting its inaugural InsurTech Innovation Summit on 6.27.24. This public, hybrid event is set to unite over 250 startups, investors, corporate partners, and insurance enthusiasts for a full day of programming centered around technology-driven innovation in insurance and critical industry topics. Industry leaders such as Allstate, EX3, and World Business Chicago are supporting the 2024 Summit. Tickets are now on sale, more information below. 

The Summit capstones this year’s Innovation Lab immersive experience for startups and industry leaders. Founders from the 2024 Innovation Lab cohort will be showcasing their products and services through interactive Startup Expos and pitching their startups in a pitch showcase competition. Areas of focus include climate risk management, emerging data sources, the future of mobility, and sales and distribution innovation. 

“As the Entrepreneur in Residence, I’ve had a chance to interact with the 30+ startups in the cohort – We have some great startups, CEOs and founders in the InsurTech space,” said Jeff Chookaszian, Insurance and Financial Services Executive at The Boston Consulting Group (BCG). “This will be a great opportunity to network with some of the most influential leaders in the space including startups, VC’s and investors, corporates, and InsurTech junkies! The Summit will showcase innovation in the insurance industry and InsurTech. I would encourage anyone who is interested in InsurTech and AI to attend!”

“In an age where technology and risk intertwine, fostering collaboration between the insurance and tech sectors becomes paramount,” remarked Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871. “Drawing from my extensive experience in the insurance realm, I am excited to unveil the Insurtech Innovation Summit, an event poised to catalyze groundbreaking advancements. Set against the backdrop of Chicago, a city synonymous with innovation, this summit serves as a nexus for industry pioneers to converge. Together, we’ll chart the course for the future of insurance by harnessing the transformative power of technology.”

 

Summit Agenda

The public Summit will take place on 6.27.24, with the option to attend in person at 1871 or virtually from 10:00 to 6:30 PM CST. Note that while attendees can watch virtually, only a select group of events will be livestreamed. In-person participation is highly recommended to access full programming and networking opportunities. 

Attendees will gain insights into the latest insurance and tech trends, with focuses on risk management and underwriting , sales and distribution, and insights on  the future of tech integration into the insurance sector. Registration is required to participate in this event. 

 

Event details

  • Refreshments: Breakfast and lunch will be served, followed by happy-hour 
  • Expert-led panel discussions
  • Interactive breakout workshops 
  • Startup pitch competition
  • Startup Expo
  • Keynote
  • Networking

 

Ticketing information

This event is free to 1871 Members, with purchase options available for non-members. See ticket options here & register to attend.   

1871’s 2024 AI Innovation Summit will also run on the same day for separate curated programming.

For information regarding joining the Summit as a sponsor or partner, please get in touch with corpinno@1871.com. Subscribe to stay up-to-date on 1871’s Innovation Labs programming & news. 

 

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.

by

1871 & BMO Announce the 5 Women-led Fintech Startups Joining the 2024 Cohort for Exclusive Programming & Industry Connections

1871 & BMO are proud to announce the five women-founded fintech startups participating in the 5th cohort of their award-winning program, WMNfintech. 

WMNfintech is North America’s largest non-profit fintech industry program for women-founded & women-led startups. Since launching in 2020, women-led fintech startups who have participated in this program have raised more than $35M in capital and created 200+ jobs in their respective fields. 

Starting in May, the cohort will further develop their services and solutions through the program’s tailored product, business development, and entrepreneurial programming. Each cohort member will also receive exclusive mentorship from BMO executive leaders to help navigate startup fundamentals, including pitch practice and potential access to capital and funding. 

About the program

Participants in this cohort are high-potential, early-stage women entrepreneurs whose startups exhibit exceptional promise in their future development and amplification in the financial sector.  

The cohort meets for one week of programming in May, June, and July 2024, culminating in September for the program’s final showcase at BMO’s Bay Area office. They’ll have the opportunity to share their business solutions and services with various stakeholders, banking partners, regulators, and trade groups for feedback and support. 

The five women founders will have access to 1871’s early-stage membership benefits, including educational programming designed to meet each founder’s unique needs and access to its pool of 150+ mentors and community members. Cohort members will also participate in deep dives and fintech-amplified workshops led by BMO leaders. 

Cohort members will be introduced into the powerful community of WMNfintech alumni, financial institutions, venture capitalists, and industry leaders for future networking opportunities. 

WMNfintech 2024 Cohort Members 

Amy Chou, Chief Product Officer at Addition Wealth

Addition Wealth is a financial wellness company that makes personalized financial expertise inclusive and accessible. We partner with companies, including financial institutions and insurance providers, to give individuals free access to digital financial experiences. Through our platform, we create meaningful relationships with people, empowering them to make smarter financial decisions and make the most of their money.

Alice Reimer, CEO of Fillip Fleet Inc 

Fillip Fleet is a modern shift in the way businesses deal with fuel and vehicle expenses. It finally puts control in the hands of the business — making the process simple, reliable, and more economical. 

Prarthana Gupta, CEO & Founder of OrdrSmart 

OrdrSmart tackles B2B manufacturers’ customer acquisition challenges by streamlining operations, cutting costs, and boosting revenue for over 600,000 manufacturers managing 10M+ product samples annually. Our software bridges the gap between an organizations CRM and ERP system to become the sourth of truth of product data throughout its lifecycle. 

Maya Urman Bahar, CEO & Co-Founder at Proov.ai

Proov.ai is disrupting the FinTech regulation market by automating the validation process of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and even simple models, bridging the gap between data science and compliance teams.

Claudette McGowan, CEO of Protexxa 

Protexxa is a B2B SaaS cybersecurity company that connects the dots between personal cyber hygiene and business risk. Using artificial intelligence (Al), the Protexxa Defender platform rapidly identifies, evaluates, predicts, and resolves common cyber vulnerabilities.

by

Building the Future of Web3: How Decentralization is Empowering Industries and Communities

As the digital landscape witnesses a transformative era with the adoption and acceleration of Web3 technologies, 1871 got in on the action and hosted its first-ever Web3 Innovation Summit on 4.17.24!

In execution with U.S. Blockchain Coalition, Fintech4Good, and WTIA Advanced Technology Cluster,  the Summit united key players and industry leaders in Web3, including pioneering startups, investors, and corporate partners for a day dedicated to collaboration & innovation. 

Over a full day of programming and immersive discussions, 1871 and its expert speakers held attentive and collaborative sessions on Web3’s  impact on the future, focusing on the empowerment of industries through decentralization, while acknowledging the promising state of this technology. More on the themes of the day, below!

Watch the best highlights & industry insights in our 2024 Web3 Innovation Summit recap playlist! 

The core of Web3: decentralization & the power of governance

Charles Hoskinson, Founder & CEO at Input Output Global, opened the Summit with a keynote discussion on the importance of governance in the ever-evolving Web3 world. 

Web3 is a shift from traditional centralized systems to decentralized networks, where governance is distributed among users rather than controlled by a single entity. As our society continues to rewrite the history of  Web3’s integration, Hoskinson emphasized the importance of a collaborative governance — ensuring that its distributed among users and  belongs to a collective, rather than controlled and evaded by regulatory measures by a single entity.

This fundamental shift promises to enhance transparency, security, and integrity within its key players. 

Web3 innovators @ our startup alley and pitch showcase

Startups pioneering in Web3 were buzzing in our Startup Alley and pitch showcases, where attendees had the opportunity to get an insider-look at the amazing services and products being built by 1871’s 2024 Web3 Innovation Lab cohort.  

Congratulations to our pitch winner FreshCredit, and fan-favorite, My-Legacy.ai! 

Web3's impact on tech & communities

The financial sector is one of the primary beneficiaries of Web3 technologies. Lauren Thorbjornsen, Chief of Staff and VP of Communications at Stellar Development Foundation gave an energetic presentation, emphasizing that blockchain technology is not just about technological advancements, but should be leveraged to solve real-world problems.

Platforms like Stellar are optimizing blockchain to create more inclusive financial systems with low fees, fast transactions, and enhanced traceability, helping all receive their money without the complexities and hassle of old technology.

The need for education & regulation

Web3 isn’t going to evolve on its own – “this is just the beginning,” according to Thorbjornsen. And no, Web3 is not a get-rich-quick scheme or other commonly heard misconceptions! 

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding Web3, widespread adoption faces hurdles, especially due to regulatory complexities and a lack of understanding among the general public. Web3’s panel discussions, ‘Web3 in Action: Real-World Web3 Use Cases’ & ‘What Needs to Be Done for Web3 Mass-Adoption’, candidly discussed the critical need for advocacy and education, alongside community engagement to foster a deep understanding and trust in Web3 technologies.

Panelists include: 

Web3’s evolution is dependent on developing governance models that can adapt and scale. The future of Web3 lies in its ability to integrate with existing systems and markets, overcoming technical and regulatory barriers while demonstrating clear use cases that benefit a wide range of users.

Embracing change and navigating the future

Jeff Gaus, Founder & CEO of The Provenance Chain Network closed out the Summit and expanded the narrative on Web3, portraying it not just as a technological innovation but as a pivotal shift involving a new suite of technologies and governance models. 

Gaus emphasized that Web3 should focus on delivering concrete outcomes, urging attendees to think beyond the tools to the satisfaction and results they bring. Highlighting the substantial financial investments flowing into Web3, Gaus also discussed its transformative potential, particularly in enhancing supply chain transparency, traceability, and efficiency. 

What’s the future of Web3 for Gaus? He compared the evolution of Web3 to the historical development phases of the internet and computing, suggesting a future where Web3 is seamlessly integrated into mainstream business and governance frameworks.

 As we navigate this new landscape, the combined efforts of developers, regulators, and the community will be crucial in shaping a technology ecosystem that is both innovative and inclusive. The journey of Web3 is just beginning, and its true potential is only starting to be realized! 

Thanks to all who joined us for our 2024 Web3 Innovation Summit. This day would not have been possible without the support from Fenwick, Hyperledger Foundation, Global Blockchain Business Council (GBBC),  Genesis Block,  Wave Digital Assets, Chainlink, EX3 Labs, Decasonic,  World Business Chicago, Alphabit, ETHChicago, Global DCA, and  T-Mobile Wholesale.  

by

The Green Tech Revolution: How Tech is Transforming the Cannabis Industry

The intersection of cannabis and technology is sparking a revolution in the way we grow, market, and consume this beloved plant. With the rapid growth of legalization around the globe & innovative tech solutions to enhance consumer safety and expand its market reach, hundreds of ‘canna-curious’  individuals and industry experts gathered at 1871 for our second annual Cannabis Innovation Summit on 4.17.24. 

In execution with Grown In, this year’s event far exceeded our expectations with an impressive lineup of cannabis leaders, founders, and innovators who spoke candidly into the complexities of cannabis entrepreneurship, legal hurdles, and technological advancements reshaping the industry.

From insights into current trends in cannabis to future predictions on where regulations and laws will land in this complex field, our Summit was full of collaboration on the green tech revolution. More on the theme of the day, below! 

Watch the best highlights & industry insights in our 2024 Cannabis Innovation Summit recap playlist! 

Cannabis: from plant to purpose

Beloved actor and entrepreneur Jim Belushi opened the Summit with a captivating keynote about his transition from the entertainment industry to launching his cannabis farm, Belushi’s Farm. His focus? Making high-quality, organic products for his consumers while educating the public on the power of cannabis and how it’s grown through his TV show, Growing Belushi. 

Motivated by a suggestion from friend Dan Aykroyd, Belushi explored the healing and therapeutic potential of cannabis, emphasizing its medicinal benefits and healing nature for individuals dealing with ailments or pain that can be alleviated by cannabis – both on the inside and out. 

“As an entertainer, my purpose is to make people feel good, healing by performing,” Belushi said. “With cannabis, it’s the same purpose. My job is to make people feel good.”  

Despite facing challenges many others run into, such as regulatory hurdles and the complexities of managing a cannabis operation, Belushi remains committed to the cannabis industry. Belushi’s mission is to educate consumers, continue exploring cannabis dispensaries across the nation, hear directly from users themselves, and advocate for federal regulatory changes to destigmatize cannabis use.

But, cannabis stigmatization isn’t going away anytime soon. Joanne Caceres, Cannabis Law Attorney at Dentons, and Eric Berlin, Partner at Dentons, shared deep-level legal insights about the cannabis industry in their breakout session ‘The Word Out of Washington and State Houses Near You.’ 

With extensive cannabis and hemp law expertise and involvement, Caceres and Berlin discussed the slow progress of federal cannabis reform and the intricate dance between state and federal regulations. Despite the positive impact of cannabis and its high demand, these legal frameworks and delays continue to have a significant effect on businesses, investors, and service providers. 

Canna-tech innovators @ our startup alley & pitch showcase

1871’s 2024 Cannabis Innovation Lab cohort of canna-tech enthusiasts and startups were not shy about what they’re up to! Attendees were captivated by current players in the cannabis sector in our Startup Alley and heard directly from its founders in our pitch showcases. 

Congratulations to our pitch winner, Budscout AI, and fan-favorite Acute on Chronic! 

Envisioning the future of cannabis

Cannabis is continuing to trickle into neighboring industries. Our breakout workshop leaders led discussions surrounding how cannabis innovation is within the main markets of supply chain and advertising, and the importance of cannabis research for future industry innovation. 

Speakers include: 

The Summit concluded with a future-focused discussion led by Kelly Bernazza-Hall, COO and Co-Founder of Hoodie Analytics, James Yi, Founder & Board Director of Leaf Trade, and Martez Knox, Founder & CEO of BakedBot.AI. The trio highlighted the crucial role of technology in powering today’s rapidly changing cannabis industry. 

Through data analytics, introducing AI for automation, and strategic partnerships, these tools are crucial for growth and scaling in cannabis to solve operational challenges and enhance efficiency, especially in a capital-contained environment. 

What is the most important thing we as a society can do according to this trio? Emphasize the importance of social equity in cannabis innovation! Support minority-owned businesses to ensure that the growth of the cannabis industry benefits all communities equitably.

The 1871 community can’t wait to continue exploring the future of cannabis in this tech-driven era with our community of industry innovators and leaders. 

Thank you to everyone joining us and our community for our 2024 Cannabis Innovation Summit. This day would not have been possible without the support from Dentons, Illinois Equity Staffing, Hoodie Analytics, and World Business Chicago.

by

Meet the Top 5 2024 WMNtech Pitch Competition Finalists

1871’s WMNtech Pitch Competition returns for its third year to highlight and support women who are founding and leading tech startups across the globe. This 3-round pitch competition is a platform for women-founded startups to pitch their products and services for the chance to win funding, resources, and connections with VC firms. 

Cash prizes and equity funding from our VC partners, totaling $30,000 will be awarded to the finalists, alongside 6-months of free membership to 1871. Aloa credits, totaling a value of $20,000 will also be distributed, with $10k awarded to our first place winner and $2.5k awarded to each finalist in 2nd-5th place. 

Thank you to our investment partners OCA Ventures and Tim and Stephanie Barry, and our 2024 sponsor Aloa for your contributions to this event. 

With 100+ round 1 applications and 20 extraordinary semi-finalists, 1871 is excited to announce the top 5 finalists who will be moving forward and pitching their startups at our final event on 3.28.24! 

Top 5 Companies of the WMNtech Pitch Competition 2024

ASL Aspire, pitched by Co-Founder & COO Ayesha Kazi 

ASL Aspire is an online educational platform that teaches STEM education for K-12 deaf and hard of hearing students and their teachers. ASL Aspire is providing a seamlessly integrable curriculum that aligns with national core standards and is created in collaboration with deaf professionals who are actively developing new signs. Their interactive mini-games enable students to practice the signs while having fun, and our machine-learning technology enables them to validate signs in front of their webcam. With its user-friendly dashboard, teachers can track student progress and identify areas for intervention, making in-class instruction easier. ASL Aspire is committed to empowering students with the tools they need to succeed while providing teachers with an innovative solution to enhance classroom instruction for deaf and hard of hearing students.

Industry focus: ​​EdTech, Artificial Intelligence

Blip Energy, pitched by Co-Founder & CEO Sophia Wennstedt

Blip Energy is defining a new smart home category with an affordable, plug-and-play battery system. Blip leverages ML to optimize energy costs for any and every household, and supplies critical backup power in case of an outage. This distributed network of IOT batteries at the grid edge provides grid operators with the tools and data they need to stabilize the grid and lower operating costs – to support a better, smarter grid for all of us.

Industry focus: Energy & Sustainability, Social Impact

IN BOLD PRINT, pitched by Co-Founder & CEO Ashley Pradhan

IN BOLD PRINT’s technology platform helps small to mid-sized companies in the consumer goods space measure their carbon emissions and grow their revenue by leveraging impact. Think of IN BOLD PRINT as the ‘TurboTax’ of carbon accounting.

Industry focus: Energy & Sustainability

MabLab, pitched by Co-Founder & CEO Vienna Sparks

Test your supply before your supply tests you. MabLab is building 5-in-1 test strips to detect the five deadliest lacing agents in recreational drugs. In response to one of our close peers who overdosed when experimenting with drugs for the first time, our team is dedicated to providing a harm reduction tool that will provide users with unparalleled accuracy in under three minutes — allowing them the dignity to know if they would be consuming lethal substances.

Industry focus: HealthCare, MedTech, Pharma, Wellness, Social Impact

Partum Health, pitched by Co-Founder & CEO Meghan Doyle

Partum Health is a hybrid clinic founded to elevate care and improve outcomes for women and families by delivering the best of online and offline support through fertility, pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Partum supports families with essential specialty services, including behavioral health, lactation, nutrition, physical therapy, and birth and postpartum doula care, that together prevent and address the most common complications of the perinatal period, including the leading driver of maternal mortality – mental health conditions. Partum’s care experience includes coordination and care team chat as well as patient education via our mobile/ web app – and we offer clinical services covered via insurance including BCBS, United, Aetna, and Cigna. We are currently serving patients in IL and TX and have delivered thousands of visits while achieving a ~95 NPS.

Industry focus: HealthCare, MedTech, Pharma, Wellness

About WMNtech Pitch Competition 

WMNtech Pitch Competition is a part of 1871’s women tech founder initiative, designed to support and amplify women early-stage founders through immersive programming, tailored resources, mentorship, and community networking opportunities. 

We are so honored to bring together our community of early, growth, and corporate members, VC partners, and allies as we highlight and celebrate well-deserving women-led startups!  

Help us cheer on the finalists as they pitch their businesses to an innovative panel of investors by attending the event,either in-person or virtually.

by

1871's Web3 Innovation Lab Brings Together Major Players Pioneering Blockchain and Decentralized Technologies to Drive the Future of the Industry.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHICAGO, November 1,  2023 – 1871, global innovation hub, is excited to unveil its latest endeavor: the Web3 Innovation Lab, a forward-thinking program dedicated to exploring the limitless possibilities of Web3 native decentralized technologies. Partnering with us for this exciting initiative is both the U.S. Blockchain Coalition, the only driving multistate collaboration across the U.S.,  and Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA) Advanced Technology Cluster, an industry leader in economic growth and connectivity for blockchain technologies and quantum computing; and our Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) Arry Yu, co-founder and executive director of U.S. Blockchain Coalition, who share our commitment to advancing the Web3 industry. Applications are now open until December 29, 2023. 

In an era marked by the transformative potential of Web3, 1871 is eager to lead the charge in creating cutting-edge solutions and applications that will redefine how we interact with technology and the digital world.

“Web3 opens up so many opportunities for new innovations, and it’s essential at this stage in the sector’s growth to bring together stakeholders across the spectrum from startup to enterprise to investor to make sure we capitalize on all the opportunity,” said Nick Ellingson, director of products at WTIA Advanced Technology Cluster. 

“The power of Web3 is around the potential of privacy-preserving, people-owned, secured data on digitally native distributed systems,” said Arry Yu, co-founder and executive director of the U.S. Blockchain Coalition. “Web3 infrastructure using blockchain-based security is more than ten times better than what is in corporations today. Let’s invest in our innovators and build partnerships to make this a reality.” 

“The launch of a Web3 innovation lab at 1871 heralds a new era of digital transformation. This technology is more than innovation; it’s a gateway to a decentralized, trust-based future where data ownership, privacy, and security take center stage,” said Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871.  “By empowering pioneers in this space, we’re not only shaping tomorrow’s digital landscape but also safeguarding the values of autonomy and transparency in the digital age”

The Web3 Innovation Lab will operate from January 22nd, 2024, through April 19th, 2024, focusing on pushing the boundaries of Web3 native and decentralized technologies. This lab program will explore emerging Web3 applications and their potential across various sectors.

 

Web3 Innovation Lab 2024 Highlights

The Lab is open to the following innovators: 

  • Growth-stage startups with a technology or product focused on Web3 and blockchain-based technologies 
  •  Late-stage partners seeking to enhance their Web3 through partnerships or have a core product focused on the Web3 space
  • Corporations sitting at the forefront of Web3 innovation or seeking to enhance their Web3 and blockchain-based technologies via partnerships 

There will be a selection process for startups to ensure those admitted to the program have proven readiness and are fit for the Lab. 

Information sessions on the Lab will take place on  12.06.23 and on 12.20.23, to provide attendees with curriculum information, cohort eligibility, and the benefits of joining as a cohort member or partner. 

 

2024 Lab focus areas 

This Lab focuses on several “focus areas” for cohort members to explore, identify, and collaborate to solve issues within Web3, blockchain, and decentralized technologies. Specifically, developing and expanding the foundational elements of such.

High-level focus areas include: 

  • Building Out Digitally Native Middleware: protocols dictating how data is exchanged and transmitted in Web3 
  • Layer 0’s and 1’s: shifting control and ownership of identity information from centralized entities to individuals themselves 
  • Enabling Enterprise: subset of use cases for companies to explore, like supply chain, loyalty, and finance 
  • Enabling Government: subset of use cases for governments to explore, like taxation, voting, and funding 
  • Use Cases for Normies: subset of use cases for consumers to explore, like product tracing, decentralized currency, and asset tokenization 

The lab experience broken down

This Lab is designed to connect startups, late-stage partners, corporate innovators, VCs, and Web3 experts for four immersive weeks of programming, alternating in virtual and in-person experiences. 

The cohort will meet for one whole week of programming in January, February, March, and April 2024. 

The program ends with its Web3 Innovation Summit, taking place on 04.18.24. 

 

Why Web3 

The current internet, often dominated by tech giants and intermediaries, has raised concerns about data privacy, censorship, and control. Although still relatively new, Web3 redefines the digital landscape with its emphasis on user empowerment, data ownership, and decentralization, offering a solution to these issues.

Despite its setbacks, Web3 continues to be alive and thriving, using artificial intelligence and decentralization to offer its users safety and security while putting users in charge of their data. Now is the time to utilize Web3’s resistance to censorship, commitment to economic inclusion and developer empowerment, and fostering global accessibility, making Web3 a promising frontier for the future of the internet.

1871, the U.S. Blockchain Coalition, and WTIA Advanced Technology Cluster are looking forward to a groundbreaking year of collaboration and innovation at the 2024 Web3 Innovation Lab. We invite the press and the public to join us in exploring the future of the Web3 industry.

 

About 1871 Innovation Labs

The Innovation Labs serve as a dynamic hub for fostering cutting-edge solutions, collaboration, and technological advancement. These labs offer a platform for startups, industry leaders, investors, and venture capitalists to come together to pioneer the future of various industries, including artificial intelligence, cannabis, supply chain, and beyond. 

Typically running for three or four months, the labs are at the forefront of innovation, connecting key players in the tech ecosystem to drive transformative change and accelerate the development of groundbreaking solutions for today’s challenges,

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.

About U.S. Blockchain Coalition 

The U.S. Blockchain Coalition (USBC) is a proactive collaboration of state associations, private entities, and influential individuals that drives a national conversation about emerging technology policy, education, and adoption. The USBC’s mission is to share best practices, lessons learned, improve operational efficiency for each member, improve the purchasing power for the benefit of each member, and to consolidate political influence. The Coalition serves as the convener and the subject matter experts with a multi-state focused collective voice to better advocate for constructive public policy and educate key stakeholders, especially investors.

About WTIA Advanced Technology Cluster

The Advanced Technology Cluster is funded through Washington State’s Innovation Cluster Accelerator Program, and the focus of the group is to convene stakeholders from industry, government, academia, and the investment community to work together towards ensuring the Pacific Northwest and the broader United States is a leader in emerging technologies. The near term focuses of the Cluster are to promote the growth of web3, quantum information sciences, and artificial intelligence within the Pacific Northwest, while also finding opportunities for partnerships across the United States and the world. The Cluster works on a variety of initiatives including public policy and advocacy, workforce development, startup acceleration, and community building.

For media inquiries, please contact:

J Blaszczykiewicz, Sr. Director of Marketing at 1871

j@1871.com 

press@1871.com 

FINN Partners for WTIA

wtia@finnpartners.com

by

1871 Introduces Its First InsurTech Innovation Lab, Welcoming Applications from Growth & Late Stage Startups for Fall 2023!

CHICAGO, August 15, 2023 – Global tech innovation hub 1871 announces the debut of its newest innovation program, InsurTech Innovation Lab, set to launch in October 2023. Applications are now open until September 8th, 2023.

This marks 1871’s inaugural InsurTech initiative, an experience uniting all the major players across the insurance landscape (Property and Casualty, Life,and Health)in a collaborative effort to tackle critical challenges and break ground on solutions for future transformation.

“Several areas within the insurance sector are poised for transformation and innovation. Hundreds of founders are leveraging technological progress to enhance not just the efficiency and expansion of incumbent insurance enterprises, but also to amplify access to the financial security that insurance offers to our society,” said Rachael Feuerborn, Chief Product Officer at 1871. “We’re thrilled to foster collaboration between these pioneering startups, forward-thinking corporations, and InsureTech experts to tackle the biggest opportunities the industry presents.” 

“Innovation is the compass guiding us through the ever changing landscape of risk, ensuring that current and future uncertainties are met with ingenious solutions”, said Betsy Ziegler, CEO at 1871.” This new  lab unites the visionary power of tech innovators with the security of insurance expertise sparking transformative potential. 

InsurTech represents the final addition to 1871’s suite of Innovation Labs this year, following the successes of the Cannabis Innovation Lab, AI Innovation Lab, Supply Chain Innovation Lab, and FoodTech Innovation Lab. 

 

About InsurTech Innovation Lab

Applications to join the Fall 2023 lab are open until 9.08.23. The immersive, 4-month hybrid experience, running from 10.09.23 – 01.18.24, caters to each stage within the cohort respectively, while fostering a collective atmosphere for collaborative innovation.

This Lab focuses on several areas for cohort members to explore, identify, and collaborate to solve key issues within the industry. Startups serving domains across the InsurTech focus areas will be considered for the cohort. 

Focus areas this year include:

  • Subrogation 
  • Litigation 
  • Fraud 
  • Back-Office Productivity 
  • Preparing for Volatility — Climate, Workforce, & Talent 

Those eligible to join the lab:

  • Growth-stage startups with a technology or product focused on the InsurTech space 
  • Late-stage startups as partners seeking to elevate their brand as experts and influence the InsurTech industry
  • Corporations as partners sitting at the forefront of InsurTech innovation or seeking to enhance their capabilities & offerings via partnerships 

A selection will ensure that startups admitted to the program are best suited and have proven readiness for optimal lab outcomes. 

Information sessions will be held on 8.22.23 and on 8.29.23, to provide attendees with detailed lab curriculum, key dates, and the benefits of participating. 

Within the lab, participants are connected to experts, enthusiasts, and investors through immersive workshops and other experiences throughout the duration of the program.

The lab experience alternates in virtual and in-person sessions, convening for a full week in October, November, and December 2023, culminating with the final week in January 2024. 

The program ends with a capstone-like InsurTech Innovation Summit in January 2024 — a public event akin to 1871’s AI Innovation Summit, which took place in July 2023.

For inquiries about partnerships or sponsorship options for the InsurTech Innovation Lab or Summit, connect with our team. 

To stay updated on all InsurTech Innovation Lab news, subscribe here. 

 

About 1871

1871 is Chicago’s innovation hub and the #1 ranked private business incubator in the world. It exists to inspire, equip, and support early-stage, growth-stage, and corporate innovators in building extraordinary businesses. 1871 is home to ~400 technology startups, ~200 growth stage companies, and ~1,500 members, and is supported by an entire ecosystem 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 850 alumni companies are currently still active, have created over 14,500 jobs, and have raised more than $3.5 billion in follow-on capital.

by

On 06.22.23, 1871 hosted their third BLKtech Pitch Competition. The 3-round competition started with 50+ applicants, 20 founders moved to the semi-finals, and the top 5 finalists pitched their startups in front of a live audience.

Congratulations to the 2023 BLKtech Pitch Competition finalists 
  1. Period, taking home $13k dollars & $10k in Aloa dev credits 
  2. LucidTrade, taking home $9.5k dollars & $2.5k in Aloa dev credits 
  3. Reach Pathways, taking home $7.5k dollars & $2.5k in Aloa dev credits 
  4. Roomii, taking home $2.5k in Aloa dev credits 
  5. SALUBATA, taking home $2.5k in Aloa dev credits 

The finalists also received 6-months of free 1871 membership, on top of their individual cash prizes and development credits. 

Judges for the competition included: 

The third annual BLKtech Pitch Competition was made possible by investment partners  OCA Ventures, Wintrust Ventures, Dom Capital Group, and Tony Wilkins, as well as sponsors State Farm, Aloa,Weber Shandwick, Food Foundry, William Blair, Verizon, EY, and Molson Coors. 

About BLKtech

BLKtech is 1871’s umbrella of programming centered around supporting, equipping, and elevating Black founders & leaders  through curated programming and mentoring initiatives. 1871 has programs,community resource groups, and events dedicated to Black individuals in tech, including BLKtech Founders, BLKtech Voices, and annual celebratory Juneteenth event.  

by

Women Founders Win Big at WMNtech Pitch Competition 2023

On 03.30.23, 1871 hosted their second WMNtech Pitch Competition. The 3-round competition started with 80+ applicants, 20 founders moved to the semi-finals, and the top 5 women founder finalists pitched their startups in front of a live audience.

Congratulations to the 2023 WMNtech Pitch Competition finalists 

1. kweliTV, taking home $20k dollars & $10k in Aloa dev credits 

2. Here Here Market, taking home $15k dollars & $2.5k in Aloa dev credits 

3.Clickvoyant, taking home $5k dollars & $2.5k in Aloa dev credits 

4. Hyivy Health, taking home $5k dollars & $2.5k in Aloa dev credits 

5. Neofin, taking home $5k dollars & $2.5k in Aloa dev credits 

 

Judges for the competition included: 

We are grateful for the support from investors 7Wire, Hyde Park Venture Partners, OCA Ventures, Subconscious Ventures, and Troy Henikoff, as well as our competition sponsors Aloa, Molson Coors, and State Farm. Thank you for helping make this competition a success and helping 1871 continuing our mission of supporting well-deserving entrepreneurs with resources and funding. 

About WMNtech 

WMNtech is 1871’s umbrella of programming centered around supporting, equipping, and elevating women founders and leaders in tech through curated programming and mentoring initiatives. 1871 has several programs dedicated specifically to women, including WMNtech Founders, WMNtech Leaders, and WMNfintech.

 

by

1871 Announces AI Innovation Lab 2023 Cohort

CHICAGO (April 4th, 2023)– Non-profit global innovation hub 1871 announces its first-ever list of cohort members for their AI Innovation Lab 2023. The program has been strategically built with execution partner Why of AI, and supported by anchor partner Discover and several other partners. 

This is 1871’s third tech innovation lab, designed to connect startups, growth scalers, and corporate innovators together, while also introducing VCs, AI experts, and talent to collectively solve various challenges across industries with the support of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies. 

The 39 cohort participants will collaborate through curated programming, workshops, and inspiration sessions, designed to foster meaningful connections and accelerate growth. They’ll hear from world renowned speakers, deep dive into how AI is changing various functions and industries, and take the stage themselves to share how they’re disrupting through AI. 

 

Cohort Members 

7 QUBES | Chase Yeung, CEO

7QUBES is a cloud-based CRM platform designed to revolutionize how small businesses manage their customer relationships, operations, data analytics, finance, and inventory. With advanced AI-driven tools, 7QUBES empowers businesses to prepare for the future and stay ahead of the competition.

ANDRALOGY ™ |  Dege Nsoki, Founder & CLO Products Analytics

ANDRALOGY™ has the vision to create a future of work for all. We are on a mission to help learners to design, build and deploy their own personalized Analytics, Machine Learning and AI projects.

Arvist | Nilay Parikh, Founder & CEO

Arvist uses existing security cameras and AI-powered Digital Twin technology to provide real-time critical event awareness for warehouse operators, helping to reduce supply chain disruptions and optimize operations.

Arvo | Alane Boyd, Co-Founder & CEO

Arvo is an AI-powered sales tool with a drag-and-drop interface that makes it easy for users to create stunning digital sales assets such as proposals, case studies, how-tos, client portals, and even follow-ups, in minutes.

BannerBoo | Nadiia Yuzkova, CTO

BannerBoo is an AI-powered no code banner editor that allows businesses to accelerate and automate ad creation processes. 

Biologit | Nicole Baker, Co-Founder & CEO

AI-enabled Scientific Literature monitoring for Pharmacovigilance, Cosmetovigilance, Nutrivigilance and medical devices. 

Bizbaz | Hayk Hakobyan, CEO 

Bizbaz offers comprehensive customer intelligence and risk assessment capabilities. 

BlackInc AI | Eric Mills, Founder

BlackInk AI helps tattoo enthusiasts and artists quickly and easily generate unique and personalized tattoo designs. With a vast catalog of pre-made designs and a creation tool, BlackInk streamlines the tattoo design process for everyone.

Bloomfield | Mark DeSantis, CEO 

Bloomfield offers precise, objective and accurate plant-level health and performance assessments, continuously at any scale. 

Brighten AI | John Berkey, CEO/CTO 

Next generation Conversational Ai hardware and software platforms, enabling great conversations, even without an internet connection. 

CharacTour  | Kimberly Foerster, Founder & CEO

CharacTour is a patented platform that provides truly personalized recommendations for its 8 million registered users: based on 46 demensions of their complex personalities. Leveraging its psychographic data, CharacTour also building AI technology to precisely calculate the “personality” of a brand, determine target consumers using advanced statistical techniques, and generate ad copy using words and phrases to appeal to specific personas. 

ClearCOGS | Osayanmo (Osa) Osarenkhoe, Co-Founder & CPO

ML/AI driven demand forecasting and operation optimization for restaurants. 

Community Wellness Technology Inc. | Bonnie Johnson and Jon Fenner, CISO, CTO

We are a patient first, physician led organization improving outcomes and reducing costs in support of patients living with multiple chronic conditions. We partner with hospitals and managed care organizations to produce outcomes at scale.

Course Collab | Jamie Gladfelter, Founder 

AI-first productivity tools for higher education faculty. 

Encounter AI | Derrick Johnson, CEO 

Encounter AI, a cutting-edge voice AI system that streamlines the customer ordering process at drive-thrus. Our tech was developed with SRI International, the makers of Siri and Nuance.

Folder Front | Bryan Mulcrone, Founder

Folder Front has developed a Revolutionary AI-File Manager, that allows Users to organize files in seconds with the latest Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, as well as to find files faster than ever before with our Patent-Pending Folder Technology. 

Justpoint | Gregory Zarrillo, Chief of Staff 

Justpoint identifies products and practices causing public harm and holds responsible parties accountable by pursuing justice for victims.

LISA Insurtech | Gino Volpi, CEO

We are helping insurance carriers worldwide deliver a better, simpler, and faster claims experience to their customers.

Mercurial AI Inc. | Dennis Trujillo, CEO 

Creating AI solutions for improving cancer care. 

Outboundly | Miguel Dey, Founder

Outboundly extends LinkedIn with the ability to Instantly analyze  profiles and generate highly personalized cold outreach messages in one click using AI. You can also use Outboundly to analyze website text and generate cold email. 

Parkva | Rob Benson, CEO 

By leveraging computer vision (CV) and artificial intelligence (AI), Parkva solutions detect parking occupancy and violations 24/7 without human intervention.

Photos.live | Leonardo Araujo de Assis, CEO 

We deliver measurable, memorable guest experiences that help brands gain data-driven insights into their events. 

Qilo | Dave Brost, Co-Founder & CEO 

Qilo enhances electric utility data with AI to create a stronger grid.

Quadratic Systems Inc. | Anil Koripelly, Principal 

Quadratic is a pure-play Analytics firm helping our customers in their journey towards data democratization, AI/ML Automation and digital transformation.  

Rentervention | Conor Malloy, Rentervention Project Director 

Rentervention, a service of the Law Center for Better Housing, is a virtual assistant for tenants in crisis. Through Rentervention, tenants can access free legal information, document assembly and referrals to legal and social services. 

ReVert Technologies Inc. | Ryan Li, CEO 

With AI enabled power adapters, we make it easy to turn things off and save energy.

SC Tech | Jeff Beyle, CEO 

Provide advanced Industrial IoT technologies in a system that is easy to implement and straightforward to use. 80% of the power of the high-end Industrial IoT systems at <20% of the cost and complexity.

Sign-Speak Inc. | Yamillet Payano, Co-Founder & CEO

Sign-Speak is a revolutionary language translation services. Our AI-powered sign language recognition technology and support for multiple spoken languages make us the ideal solution for innovative financial service leaders looking to shape the future of accessibility.
 

Snips Media | David Zaretsky, Founder, CEO, & Chief Scientist 

Snips is the first performance-driven influencer marketing platform that empowers influencers with business tools to grow their audience and monetize their social networks, while enabling brands to run performance-driven influencer programs built on true measurability and scale. 

Socian Technologies | Marc Ward, Founder & CEO 

Socian Technologies builds autonomous drone systems powered by an advanced AI to provide on-scene visualization services to first responders. 

Socrates.ai | Melissa Swisher, Chief Revenue Officer 

Socrates is the leader in the Employee Experience Platform space focusing on delivering one place for the employee to go for anything they want to ask or do all through a conversational experience.   

SpaceBot | Dave Turner  & Angelo Garetto, Co-Founder 

SpaceBot is a spatial research and AI operations platform dedicated to improving the health and well-being of space users through data democratization, micro-conveniences, and automations.

Studio AI | Deepak Bandi, Founder 

Unlock the power of AI within your SaaS platform. 

Tribaja | Shannon Morales, CEO

Tribaja is solving for the world’s talent shortages using AI and predictive analytics to increase learning outcomes for the working class. 

UBIVIS | Paulo Henrique Garcia de Souza, Founder & CEO

Ubivis Industrial IoT collects machinery data from Operations Technology.  On Cloud SaaS or on-premises Ubivis systems perform real time analytics using BI. Digital Twin provides real time Artificial Intelligence manufacturing and/or maintenance simulation and our software robot executes autonomous machinery operation. 

Under | Michael Abramovic, Co-Founder

Beautiful digital applications, identity verification, and integrations with a few clicks. 

Verbal Transactions | Nancy Munro, CEO

Verbal Transactions accelerates the rate in which customer facing employees reach mastery of critical business skills. Our software platform, ACES, builds highly customized hands-on simulations with a built-in coaching bot and NLP to create realistic scenarios to experience deliberate practice.

Verity XR | Shiva Rallapalli, CTO & COO

Verity XR is a HealthTech company leveraging the power of virtual reality to provide treatment solutions for pain management and physical rehabilitation.  

Vetelligence | Zachary Oshinbanjo, Founder 

Vetelligence is a post service navigation platform built to help service members determine their next steps. We leverage data in order to guide service members towards new careers, education or entrepreneurship.

 

About the program 

Led and facilitated by Gabby Snedeker, 1871’s Senior Director of Innovation Labs, cohort members will participate in 4-weeks of hybrid programming, alternating each week for virtual and in-person experiences in April, May, and June 2023. 

The program culminates with a capstone-like event, the AI Innovation Summit, open to the public on 6.29.23. The summit is a full day of programming, centered on AI and machine-learning tech innovation, and highlighting the startups in the cohort. 

Subscribe to stay up-to-date on all AI Innovation Lab news + summit. 

For inquiries about involvement in partnering with 1871  or learning more about sponsor options for either our AI Innovation Labs or AI Innovation Summit, connect with our team at corpinno@1871.com.

 

About Why of AI

Why of AI helps startups to Fortune 100s bridge company-wide gaps in AI knowledge, strategy, and innovation. Our AI strategy consulting and training services help companies understand AI and develop responsible AI roadmaps to drive business growth, customer success, and competitive advantage. Why of AI is led by Alex Castrounis, a best-selling book author on AI and professor of AI at Northwestern University’s Kellogg / McCormick MBAi program. Alex is also a former INDYCAR engineer, race strategist, and data scientist that drove winning results for teams such as Andretti Autosport in world-renowned races, including the Indy 500. 

About 1871

1871 is Chicago’s innovation hub and the #1 ranked private business incubator in the world. It exists to inspire, equip, and support early stage, growth stage and corporate innovators in building extraordinary businesses. 1871 is home to ~400 technology startups, ~200 growth stage companies, and ~1,500 members, and is supported by an entire ecosystem 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 850 alumni companies are currently still active, have created over 14,500 jobs, and have raised more than $3.5 billion in follow-on capital.

by

CHICAGO: March 27th, 2023 – Global innovation nonprofit hub 1871 is hosting its first ever Cannabis Innovation Summit on April 20th, 2023. This public event will engage over 250+ key players in the tech and Cannabis industry, including early-stage startups, growth-scalers, operators, as well as VCs, cannabis-enthusiasts, and those who are “canna-curious.”

The summit focuses on in-person programming (with select portions live-streamed),  and interactive networking. The summit is a capstone event for the Cannabis Innovation Lab program, launched earlier this year. The summit is co-hosted by  execution partner and industry expert GrownIn, leading cannabis compliance and education company. The lab is the first tech program of its kind, designed to bring startups, growth-scalers, corporations, investors, and operators together to approach the cannabis industry’s challenges and opportunities collectively. 

Summit Agenda

From 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM, summit attendees can attend a custom program for the day, including;  keynote, expert panels, topical breakout sessions, pitch competitions, tech playground, networking, and more. See full agenda here.

Anchored by partner Cresco Labs, the summit exclusively showcases cohort 1 of the lab and gives them the limelight to showcase their innovations, as well as interact with thought leaders, investors, corporates, and more! 

This content, paired with industry leaders and executives, will make for an unforgettable day centered around all things cannabis-tech. Breakfast and lunch will be offered to in-person attendees, followed by happy-hour networking and drinks in the final hours of the event.

While attendees can watch virtually, only a select group of events will be live streamed. Thank you to several 1871 growth members for sponsoring this event, including NuEra, Tecvine, and Aeropay. 

Registration is required for this event – RSVP here. 

To sponsor the summit, email corpinno@1871.com. To stay up-to-date on 1871’s Cannabis-related programming & news, subscribe here. 

by

Want to help us recognize the best in tech but don’t know where to start?

Each year at the Momentum Awards, we honor the innovators & leaders across the business maturity curve with 8 awards representing key areas of achievement—with 6 that are open to public nomination & vote! 

Nominations for the 15th Annual Momentum Awards are open until 6.17! 

We know that it can be hard to know where to start with so many incredible community members, so we put together a helpful list of resources you can reference before you cast your nominations:

Fast 50: Chicago’s Fastest-Growing Companies 2022

By Sophie Rodgers, Crain’s Business Chicago

Meet 30 Companies in Chicago Pushing the City to New Heights

By Matthew Urwin, Built In Chicago

Top Chicago Startups to Watch in 2022

By Lauren Zyber, Purpose Jobs

The 25 Best Tech Companies in Chicago to Work for in 2021

By Tiffany Webb, Flatiron School

Best of SaaS: The Top Tech Companies in Chicago

By Brittany K. King, Learn Hub

These 5 Chicago Companies Ranked on Forbes’ Best Startup Employers List

By Abel Rodriguez, Built In Chicago

Top Startups in Illinois

Startup Ranking

2022 Best Tech Startups in Chicago

The Tech Tribune

230 Illinois Companies Make Fastest-Growing List: Inc. 

By J. Ryne Danielson, Patch

Nominations will be accepted from Wednesday, June 1, 9AM CST through Friday, June 17, 11:59PM CST via Reviewr.

Want to learn more? We are hosting two introductory webinars on the categories and process. Register for them here: June 8 @ 10am CST | June 9 @ 1pm CST.

by

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, innovation is the key to staying ahead. The AI Innovation Summit 2024, held at 1871, brought together leading minds in artificial intelligence to share insights, breakthroughs, and visions for the future. Here’s a look back at the highlights and key takeaways from this transformative event. View the full playlist here.


Supported by

Aon, Discover, DeVry, Drive Capital, Decasonic, EX3 Labs, FinTech4good,  Fenwick, Hyde Park Angels, HubSpot, Microsoft, Molson Coors, Suntory Holdings Limited, World Business Chicago, Verizon, and Why of AI.

Introduction to the Summit

The AI Innovation Summit 2024 kicked off with a warm welcome from our CEO, Betsy Ziegler, setting the stage for an exciting day of learning and networking. The event attracted a diverse audience, from AI enthusiasts to industry veterans, all eager to explore the latest advancements in AI technology.

Keynote Speeches

Our keynote speakers did not disappoint during their firesides. Adam McElhinney, CEO at Uptake, a renowned startup expert, opened the summit with a thought-provoking talk on the future of AI to transform operations. Chris Gladwin, CEO of Ocient followed with a deep dive into  what it means to hyperscale data analytics and provide solutions that enable organizations to rapidly analyze and act on massive datasets. The keynotes provided a perfect blend of inspiration and practical insights, leaving the audience eager for more.

Interactive AI Workshops

The summit featured several interactive workshops designed to provide attendees with hands-on experience in AI. These sessions covered a range of topics, including:

  • How to Turn AI Chaos into Clarity: Alex Castrounis, Justin Johnson, Erik O’Brien, leadership at  Why of AI
  • What Issues Are Blocking AI Adoption: Dean Wampler of IBM
  • Human-Centered AI for Enterprises: Developing a Strategy for a Voice-First Future: Hosted by Ex3 Labs

Participants left these workshops with new skills and a deeper understanding of how to leverage AI in their own projects.

Panel Discussions Exploring AI Trends and Challenges

The panel discussions were a highlight of the summit, featuring experts from various industries who discussed the latest trends and challenges in AI. Key topics included:

These discussions provided diverse perspectives and sparked meaningful conversations among attendees.

Spotlight on Emerging Technologies with AI Pitch Compeition

AI Startup Expo & Pitch Competition showcased the incredible founders from our AI Innovation Lab 2024 Cohort, pioneers of impressive tech products. 

The AI Startup Expo & Pitch Competition at our AI Innovation Summit 2024 was a thrilling showcase of innovation, featuring remarkable founders from our AI Innovation Lab 2024 Cohort. These pioneers are developing cutting-edge tech products that are set to revolutionize their respective industries.

Congratulations to our pitch competition 🏆 winners:

xBlock: xBloc captivated the judges with their predictive analytics platform designed to deliver real-time insights and data-driven decision-making capabilities. xBloc integrates data from diverse sources to enhance operational efficiency, optimize resource utilization, and reduce costs. Their innovative solution provides personalized support and comprehensive analytics, helping businesses navigate complex data landscapes and achieve strategic goals with precision and speed.

Levee: Levee impressed the audience with their AI-driven workforce optimization platform designed to power the future of quality control in the hospitality sector. Levee’s system utilizes advanced algorithms to predict labor demand, optimize staffing levels, and enhance employee performance. By providing real-time analytics and predictive insights, Levee helps businesses maintain exceptional service quality, streamline operations, and boost customer satisfaction

Engaging with Innovations

Shoutout to our full AI Innovation Lab 2024 Cohort: Lumi AI SpaceBot.ai NLX Extend xBlock Graphio Agtools Inc Drip Tech Co Autonoma nutrād HydroX AI inQuestAI GoCharlie.ai NeoLicense Infera AI Matrice.ai Polygraf AI Legman Levee OpenRisk Technologies InstaEnglish Inc xPub DynamoFL CodeCompleteAI

Attendees had the unique opportunity to interact with these groundbreaking innovations firsthand. The expo provided a dynamic environment for networking and discussions, fostering potential collaborations and partnerships. Participants explored the capabilities of these AI solutions, gaining insights into how they can be applied across various sectors to drive efficiency and innovation.

Why It Matters

The AI Pitch Competition is more than just a showcase of talent; it’s a testament to the transformative power of AI in solving real-world problems. By supporting and highlighting these startups, we are not only recognizing their achievements but also encouraging the continuous growth and development of AI technologies that can make a significant impact on our lives.

Building Connections in AI

Networking was a key component of the AI Innovation Summit. Attendees enjoyed numerous opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals, potential partners, and industry leaders. From coffee breaks to structured networking sessions, the summit facilitated meaningful interactions that could lead to future collaborations and partnerships.

Reflecting on the Summit

The summit concluded with closing remarks from Betsy, who reflected on the day’s highlights and thanked all participants for their contributions. The event underscored the importance of collaboration and continuous learning in the rapidly evolving field of AI. 

Looking Ahead

As we look to the future, the insights and connections gained at the AI Innovation Summit 2024 will undoubtedly drive innovation and progress. We look forward to continuing these conversations and exploring new possibilities at future events.

The AI Innovation Summit 2024 was a resounding success, bringing together a community of innovators committed to shaping the future of AI. We thank all our speakers, participants, and sponsors for making this event possible. Stay tuned for more updates and future events from 1871!

Subscribe to 1871 Innovation Summit news & offerings. 

Subscribe to 1871’s Insider newsletter to stay in the loop with all offerings. 

by

1871’s Juneteenth Celebration: Honoring Black Excellence

1871’s Annual Juneteenth 2024 Celebration was a vibrant day, with over 450+ attendees celebrating Black innovation, entrepreneurship, and allyship.

This public, family-friendly event took place on the riverside of Chicago’s historic Merchandise Mart, featuring an outdoor spread of networking, raffles, games, food, drinks, and our BLKtech Pitch Competition Finals.

Our go-to DJ, DJ Marcus, kept the energy high as he spun music for the attendees, creating an atmosphere of unity and community spirit. A little rain in the afternoon didn’t dampen our spirits as we moved the event inside the Mart to Marshall’s Landing, ensuring the festivities continued without a hitch.

Spotlighting Black-Owned Businesses

Raffles from local Black-owned Chicago businesses were a highlight of the event! Our community enjoyed discovering and supporting these businesses, with many walking away with fantastic prizes:

Additional raffle prizes were generously donated by:
 

Announcing 1871's BLKtech Pitch Competition Winners

Our Annual BLKtech Pitch Competition Finals also took place at our Juneteenth event for the first time this year. Five incredible Black startup founders pitched their innovative ideas in the semi-finals. They were awarded a mix of cash, equity, developer credits, and 1871 membership. 

Join us in spotlighting these talented individuals and their innovative ventures as we aim to continue challenging these barriers and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable tech ecosystem.

CPRWrap Inc.

Pitched by Founder & President Felicia Jackson
Winnings: $15K in cash & equity
 
CPRWrap is dedicated to revolutionizing the way individuals perform CPR in emergency situations. With their innovative product, also named CPRWrap, they provide a simple yet effective solution that guides users through the critical steps of CPR, ensuring proper technique and potentially saving lives. By empowering individuals with confidence and clarity during high-stress situations, they aim to make CPR accessible to everyone and improve survival rates for cardiac arrest victims.

Industry focus areas: Business Products & Services (industry agnostic), E-Commerce, Brand, RetailTech, HealthCare, MedTech, Pharma, Wellness, and Social Impact 

 

Tuverl

$10K in cash & $2.5K in Aloa Developer Credits

Pitched by Founder & CEO Hope Ndhlovu

Tuverl seeks to revolutionize public transport in Africa by offering zero-collateral financing for climate-friendly vehicles and innovative digital solutions. Its platform optimizes public transport operations, enabling operators to improve routes, increase revenue, and enhance efficiency. Through its app, commuters can live-track buses and minibusses, book trips, hail taxis, and pay digitally. Tuverl’s approach supports sustainable urban development and climate action, making travel safer, more reliable, and affordable for millions across the continent.

Industry focus areas: Mobility, FinTech, Financial services, Energy & Sustainability, and Social Impact 
 

Tinted Health

$10K in Aloa Developer Credits
Tinted Health, pitched by Founder Dr. Rebecca Cesar

Tinted Health is a curated digital health platform that provides access to minority providers skilled in cultural literacy. They are focused on educating providers to specifically address minority health needs through shared learning. They make it easy for minority patients to access and book minority providers in real-time through its site, addressing the health gap and the trust gap.

Industry focus areas: HealthCare, MedTech, Pharma, Wellness, Social Impact, Artificial Intelligence

 
 

Ujamaa.Financial  

$5K in Aloa Developer Credits
Ujamaa.Financial, pitched by Founder Dana Fry

 

Ujamaa.Financial is a mission-driven fintech empowering communities often overlooked in mainstream finance – Black, Brown, and first-generation college students and graduates. Through a gamified app, it delivers culturally contextualized financial education, facilitates accelerated debt repayment via round-up payments, and builds credit profiles – all while fostering a supportive community. Ujamaa.Financial aims to boost financial literacy, speed up generational wealth creation, and provide inclusive financial services tailored to the unique challenges these demographics face. With novel approaches like fractional asset rewards, the company represents the next wave of fintechs focused on democratizing financial progress.

Industry focus areas: FinTech, Financial services, EdTech, InsureTech, Real Estate Tech, Social Impact

 

plait

$2.5K in Aloa Developer Credits

Pitched by Founder & CEO Makini Allwood

plait is an online marketplace and delivery solution that will partner with Black beauty retailers whose inventories are 100% dedicated to Black hair and beauty. From their website, plait customers can order all the hair products, extensions, and styling tools they need. Then,  full-time delivery drivers will collect ordered items from their network of inventory partners, repackage the items into custom orders at a small fulfillment facility, and then deliver the orders to its customers as early as the next day.

Industry focus areas: Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Mobility, E-Commerce, Brand, and RetailTech 

 
Thank you to our investment partners OCA Ventures, Wintrust Ventures, and Google For Startups and our 2024 sponsors Aloa and Molson Coors for your contributions to this event.   

Bolstering Black Excellence

“I want everybody to know here and remember, this is a community for you, for you, for you, for you….and it has the power to change lives. It’s definitely changed mine.” Jeff Osujij, 1871 Member, Founder & CEO of Eventnoire, Entrepreneur-In-Residence for 1871’s BLKtech Founders, gives a heartfelt speech on what it means to be part of our innovation community.

View more of the speech here, where Jeff recognizes 1871, particularly, CEO Betsy Ziegler’s efforts in supporting Black founders in Chicago.

Learning about 1871 BLKtech

1871’s Juneteenth celebration is one of our signature events. View our full event playlist here. Within our Affinity Programs Initiative, we have strategically developed a suite of offerings to support and amplify Black innovation & entrepreneurialism that we call BLKtech. 

Through immersive programming, tailored resources, mentorship, and community networking opportunities it’s our mission to do our part to right systemic barriers and challenges in accessing resources and opportunities for this community.

Our programs, mention below, are designed for founders, leaders, tech enthusiasts, and the public:

BLKtech Pitch Competition, BLKtech Founders, Tech Leaders, and BLKtech Voices. 

Thank you sponsors

Eventnoire

Sign up for notifications 

Subscribe to 1871 Insider for program & event updates

by

CHICAGO – June 18, 2024 – Non-profit global innovation hub 1871 is excited to announce the launch of the third annual Supply Chain Innovation Lab. In partnership with Accenture, this program aims to revolutionize supply chain operations by leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions. Applications are now open until 6.24.24 for this year’s lab, which runs from August to November 2024.

“For the third consecutive year, Accenture and 1871 are partnering on the Supply Chain Innovation Lab, bringing together people from a broad range of organizations, driving new ideas for growth. The need for ongoing supply chain innovation is critical as companies continue to balance volatile demand with macroeconomic challenges,” said Patty Riedl, North American Supply Chain Lead, Accenture.     

“Chicago’s logistics legacy meets tech’s future at 1871,” Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871. “Partnering with Accenture, we are uniting entrepreneurs and leaders to create transformative solutions and revolutionize supply chains. From AI to smart manufacturing, shape the future with us. Be part of Chicago’s next chapter in global trade, driving the evolution of supply chains.”  

The Supply Chain Innovation Lab is designed to connect supply chain tech startups with corporate partners, investors, and industry experts to scale innovation and explore trends for future transformation. This Lab is part of 1871’s suite of Innovation Labs and runs in parallel with the 2024 FoodTech Innovation Lab.   

This year’s lab is also supported by Anchor Partner Microsoft, General Partner GS1,  late-stage partner EX3 Labs, and partner World Business Chicago.    

Supply Chain Innovation Lab 2024 Eligibility 

The Lab is open to the following innovators:

  • Supply Chain startups with a product launched in market focused on the supply chain space 
  • Late-stage partners seeking to enhance their supply chain through partnerships or have a core product focused on the supply chain space  
  • Corporations sitting at the forefront of supply chain innovation or seeking to enhance their supply chain via partnerships    

There will be a selection process for startups to ensure those admitted to the program have proven readiness and are a fit for the Lab and its focus areas. Applications close 6.28.24. Learn more and apply here.       

The cohort will meet for one whole week of programming in August, September, October, and November 2024, ending with a Supply Chain Innovation Summit on 11.07.24. 

2024 Focus Areas

With Accenture providing strategic leadership and guidance, the Lab focuses on several areas for cohort members to explore, identify, and collaborate to solve key issues within the industry. Focus areas include:  

  • Smart Manufacturing   
  • Supply Chain Responsibility   
  • Global Resiliency   
  • AI in Supply Chain   
  • Visibility and Planning   

Why Supply Chain   

In today’s global system, supply chain innovation is crucial to enhance efficiency, resilience, and sustainability, especially for businesses. With advancements in smart manufacturing and improved visibility and planning, these elements provide real-time insights and streamlines production processes, reducing waste and cost.   

Emphasizing supply chain responsibility ensures ethical practices and environmental stewardship, alongside global resiliency to withstand disruptions, maintaining continuity in supply. These innovations collectively drive a more robust and adaptive global supply chain.    

We invite the press and the public to join us in exploring the future of the supply chain industry.   

For inquiries about involvement in partnering with us or learning more about sponsor options for either our Supply Chain Innovation Lab or Supply Chain Innovation Summit, contact our team at corpinno@1871.com.

About 1871 Innovation Labs  

The Innovation Labs serve as a dynamic hub for fostering cutting-edge solutions, collaboration, and technological advancement. These labs offer a platform for startups, industry leaders, investors, and venture capitalists to come together to pioneer the future of various industries, including artificial intelligence, cannabis, supply chain, and beyond.    

Typically running for three or four months, the labs are at the forefront of innovation, connecting key players in the tech community to drive transformative change and accelerate the development of groundbreaking solutions for today’s challenges.   

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.  

About Accenture   

Accenture is a leading global professional services company that helps the world’s leading businesses, governments and other organizations build their digital core, optimize their operations, accelerate revenue growth and enhance citizen services—creating tangible value at speed and scale. We are a talent- and innovation-led company with approximately 742,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. Technology is at the core of change today, and we are one of the world’s leaders in helping drive that change, with strong ecosystem relationships. We combine our strength in technology and leadership in cloud, data and AI with unmatched industry experience, functional expertise and global delivery capability. We are uniquely able to deliver tangible outcomes because of our broad range of services, solutions and assets across Strategy & Consulting, Technology, Operations, Industry X and Song. These capabilities, together with our culture of shared success and commitment to creating 360° value, enable us to help our clients reinvent and build trusted, lasting relationships. We measure our success by the 360° value we create for our clients, each other, our shareholders, partners and communities. Visit us at www.accenture.com.  

For media inquiries, please contact:  

J Blaszczykiewicz, Sr. Director of Marketing at 1871  

j@1871.com   

press@1871.com    

by

1871’s BLKtech Pitch Competition returns to highlight and support Black founders and their startups with pitching opportunities to win funding, resources, and support as they continue to build their businesses. This 3-round pitch competition is open to Black early-stage founders who are founding and leading tech startups across the globe. 

For the first time, the top 5 finalists will pitch during 1871’s 2024 Juneteenth celebratory event. This momentous occasion not only marks a significant milestone for the pitch competitions and community, but underscores our community’s commitment to amplifying Black entrepreneurship and innovation in the tech industry! 

With 70+ round 1 applications and 20 extraordinary semi-finalists, 1871 is excited to announce the top 5 finalists who will be moving forward and pitching their startups at our final event on 6.20.24! 

Cash prizes and equity funding from our VC partners, totalling $20,000, will be awarded amongst the finalists. 6-months of 1871 membership — a $2,000 value and Aloa developer credits, totaling a value of $20,000 will also be awarded. 

Thank you to our investment partners OCA Ventures, Wintrust Ventures, and Google For Startups and our 2024 sponsors Aloa and Molson Coors for your contributions to this event.   

Top 5 Finalists & Startups of the BLKtech Pitch Competition 2024

CPRWrap Inc., pitched by Founder & President Felicia Jackson

CPRWrap is dedicated to revolutionizing the way individuals perform CPR in emergency situations. With their innovative product, also named CPRWrap, they provide a simple yet effective solution that guides users through the critical steps of CPR, ensuring proper technique and potentially saving lives. By empowering individuals with confidence and clarity during high-stress situations, they aim to make CPR accessible to everyone and improve survival rates for cardiac arrest victims.

Industry focus areas: Business Products & Services (industry agnostic), E-Commerce, Brand, RetailTech, HealthCare, MedTech, Pharma, Wellness, and Social Impact 

 

Plait, pitched by Founder & CEO Makini Allwood

Despite Black hair being a multi-billion dollar industry, the retail experience is highly fragmented, meaning many Black consumers have to shop at multiple stores to get everything they need. plait is an online marketplace and delivery solution that will partner with Black beauty retailers whose inventories are 100% dedicated to Black hair and beauty. From their website, plait customers can order all the hair products, extensions, and styling tools they need. Then,  full-time delivery drivers will collect ordered items from their network of inventory partners, repackage the items into custom orders at a small fulfillment facility, and then deliver the orders to its customers as early as the next day.

Industry focus areas: Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Mobility, E-Commerce, Brand, and RetailTech 

 

Tinted Health, pitched by Founder Dr. Rebecca Cesar

Tinted Health is a curated digital health platform that provides access to minority providers skilled in cultural literacy. They are focused on educating providers to specifically address minority health needs through shared learning. They make it easy for minority patients to access and book minority providers in real-time through its site, addressing the health gap and the trust gap.

Industry focus areas: HealthCare, MedTech, Pharma, Wellness, Social Impact, Artificial Intelligence

 

Tuverl, pitched by Founder & CEO Hope Ndhlovu

Tuverl seeks to revolutionize public transport in Africa by offering zero-collateral financing for climate-friendly vehicles and innovative digital solutions. Its platform optimizes public transport operations, enabling operators to improve routes, increase revenue, and enhance efficiency. Through its  app, commuters can live track buses and minibusses, book trips, hail taxis, and pay digitally. Tuverl’s approach supports sustainable urban development and climate action, making travel safer, more reliable, and affordable for millions across the continent.

Industry focus areas: Mobility, FinTech, Financial services, Energy & Sustainability, and Social Impact 

 

Ujamaa.Financial, pitched by Founder Dana Fry

Ujamaa.Financial is a mission-driven fintech empowering communities often overlooked in mainstream finance – Black, Brown, and first-generation college students and graduates. Through a gamified app, it delivers culturally contextualized financial education, facilitates accelerated debt repayment via round-up payments, and builds credit profiles – all while fostering a supportive community. Ujamaa.Financial aims to boost financial literacy, speed up generational wealth creation, and provide inclusive financial services tailored to the unique challenges these demographics face. With novel approaches like fractional asset rewards, the company represents the next wave of fintechs focused on democratizing financial progress.

Industry focus areas: FinTech, Financial services, EdTech, InsureTech, Real Estate Tech, Social Impact

 

About BLKtech Pitch Competition

The BLKtech Pitch Competition is a part of 1871’s Black tech entrepreneur initiative, designed to support and amplify Black early-stage founders and leaders through immersive programming, tailored resources, mentorship, and community networking opportunities. Similar affinity initiatives include BLKtech Founders, Tech Leaders, and BLKtech Voices. 

Historically, Black entrepreneurs have faced systemic barriers and challenges in accessing resources and opportunities. We are so honored to bring together our full community of early, growth, late-stage and corporate members, VC partners, and allies as we highlight and celebrate well deserving Black-led startups!  

Join us in spotlighting these talented individuals and their innovative ventures as we aim to continue challenging these barriers and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable tech ecosystem. Attend the event, either in person or virtually from 3:00 – 4:30 PM CST, followed by the Juneteenth celebration from 4:30 – 8:00 PM CST. 

by

Celebrating Juneteenth: Significance for Black Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, commemorates the day the last enslaved African Americans in Texas were finally informed of their freedom on June 19th, 1865, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. 

Today, Juneteenth is a powerful symbol of freedom, resilience, and the ongoing fight for equality and justice. It’s essential to recognize its importance in the context of Black entrepreneurship and innovation in Chicago, a city with a rich history of Black excellence and achievement. 

Chicago has long been a hub for Black entrepreneurship and innovation. Despite its history of systematic racism and discrimination, Black entrepreneurs in Chicago persevered and established businesses, communities, and cultural institutions that continue to thrive today. 

Innovation & economic empowerment 

Juneteenth reminds us of the resilience and ingenuity of Black entrepreneurs and innovators in Chicago and worldwide. This day celebrates the achievements and contributions of Black leaders, activists, and entrepreneurs to the city’s economy, society, and culture. 

At 1871, we recognize the importance of celebrating these individuals and their accomplishments and resiliency throughout history. Black-owned businesses not only create jobs and generate wealth but play a vital role in driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and serving as pillars of strength and pride within the community.  

 

Building a more inclusive future 

As we celebrate Juneteenth, it’s essential to recognize the ongoing challenges Black entrepreneurs and innovators face worldwide. Structural barriers, lack of access to funding and capital, and systematic racism continue to hinder Black founder’s progress. In fact, according to Crunchbase, only 0.48% of all VC funding in 2023 went to Black founders. 

At 1871, entrepreneurship is for everyone—tech talent is everywhere, but access to resources and funding is not. Our mission is to continue reflecting Chicago’s diverse talent pool by equipping and supporting underrepresented founders with the resources and help they need to build and scale extraordinary businesses. 

Today, our vibrant community is made up of 50% non-white founders and 30% women founders, embodying Chicago’s dynamic spirit and diversity. 

 

Celebrate with us

For the third year in a row, we’re commemorating Juneteenth and honoring Black entrepreneurship and innovation within our tech community and across Chicagoland with our Juneteenth celebration on 6.20.24. We invite you to join and be part of this critical moment of reflection, remembrance, and celebration. 

This event will bring together community members, industry leaders, and allies to celebrate the achievements and triumphs of Black innovators within our tech hub. Together, we can honor Juneteenth’s legacy and continue to work towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

From inspiring startup pitches from Black founders in our 2024 BLKtech Pitch Competition to raffle prizes from Black-owned businesses, this event will bring together our community for opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate. Read about our 2023 celebration. 

This event welcomes all to join and is free to attend. RSVP today to celebrate with the 1871 community! 

 

Get involved 

Our support for Black entrepreneurs and innovators doesn’t stop after Juneteenth! Participate in 1871’s annual programming, community resource groups, and events to celebrate and support 1871’s BLKtech community. 

BLKtech Voices – 1871’s community resource group 

BLKtech Founders – 1871’s affinity programming dedicated to early-stage Black founders 

Tech Leaders – 1871’s affinity programming dedicated to Black & Latin leaders in technical-facing roles. Apps close on 6.24! 

BLKtech Pitch Competition – 1871’s annual pitching competition for Black founders 

Support our mission – 86% of every donated dollar goes towards our member programming, resources, and need-based scholarships 

by

CHICAGO — May 28, 2024 — Non-profit global innovation hub 1871 is hosting its second annual AI Innovation Summit with execution partners Why of AI and FinTech4Good on 6.27.24. This public, hybrid event is set to involve over 250 startups, investors, corporate partners, and public attendees that will convene for a full day of programming centered around artificial intelligence innovation and critical industry topics. Tickets are now available with more information below.

The Summit capstones our immersive Innovation Lab experience for startups & innovators. An exciting highlight of the day features founders of the  2024 AI Innovation Lab cohort pitching their AI-focused startups in a competition and showcasing their products in a Startup Expo.  Industry leaders like Microsoft, Discover,, Molson Coors, Suntory Holdings Limited, Fenwick, HubSpot, Verizon, EX3 Labs and World Business Chicago are supporting the 2024 Summit. 

“As we wrap up our AI Innovation Lab, I’m excited to celebrate the achievements of our incredible cohort. The AI Innovation Lab Summit Day is a perfect opportunity to highlight AI innovation, real-world problem-solving, and entrepreneurship. It’s inspiring to see how AI-focused business leaders are driving positive change,” said Alex Castrounis, Founder & CEO of Why of AI. 

​​“1871’s AI Innovation Lab has played a pivotal role in accelerating the growth of some of the most promising AI startups. At the AI Summit, corporate leaders will have the unique chance to network with these groundbreaking startups and industry visionaries. As a flagship event of Chicago AI Week, the Summit gathers the brightest minds in AI to delve into today’s most exciting innovations and offer a strategic perspective on the future of AI,” said Xiaochen Zhang, member of the Board of Advisors and Execution Partner of the 1871 AI Innovation Lab, and Chief Responsible AI Officer of AI 2030. “We are thrilled to announce a joint initiative between AI 2030 and 1871 to launch the AI 2030 Chicago Hub at the Summit. 1871 has been an incredible catalyst in Chicago’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The Summit will significantly contribute to the broader efforts in making Chicago a global tech hub.”

“At 1871, we’re at the forefront of accelerating AI innovation, thanks to the collaborative efforts of our AI partners, vibrant community, and dedicated cohort,” said Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871. “Chicago, with its rich history of innovation, diverse talent pool, and concentration of customers, is the ideal place to lead this charge. The AI Summit is a unique opportunity for visionary startups, established corporations, investors, and industry leaders to come together, exchange transformative ideas, and explore the vast potential of artificial intelligence. This summit embodies our commitment to shaping the future of AI and driving revolutionary advancements across industries worldwide.”

 

Summit Agenda

The Summit will take place on 6.27.24, with the option to attend in person at 1871 in the Merchandise Mart or virtually from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM CST. Note that while attendees can watch virtually, only a select group of events will be live-streamed. In-person participation is highly recommended to access full programming & networking opportunities available.  

Attendees will gain insights into the latest AI trends and technologies, with focuses on ethical AI governance and practices, infrastructure, and AI use case development and execution. The Summit is a complementary event to Chicago AI Week. Registration is required to participate in this event. 

 

Event details

  • Refreshments: Breakfast, lunch, and happy hour 
  • Expert-led panel discussions
  • Interactive breakout workshops 
  • Startup pitch competition
  • Startup expo
  • Keynote
  • Networking

Ticketing information

This event is free to 1871 Members, with purchase options available for non-members. See ticket options here & register to attend.   

1871’s 2024 InsurTech Innovation Summit will also run on the same day for separate curated programming. 

For information regarding joining the Summit as a sponsor or partner, please get in touch with corpinno@1871.com. Subscribe to stay up-to-date on 1871’s Innovation Labs programming & news. 

 

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.

 

About Why of AI 

Why of AI specializes in helping organizations quickly gain clarity and confidence by designing customized AI strategies, use cases, and prioritized roadmaps.

About FinTech4Good

FinTech4Good is a global responsible innovation network that works with public and private sector organizations to develop, invest and implement solutions for a better world. FinTech4Good Venture University is the education, venture building and solution acceleration arm of FinTech4Good.

For media inquiries, please contact:

J Blaszczykiewicz, Head of Marketing 

j@1871.com 

press@1871.com 

alex@whyofai.com 

by

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHICAGO — May 28, 2024 — Non-profit global innovation hub 1871 is thrilled to announce that nominations are now open for the highly anticipated 17th Annual Momentum Awards. This prestigious event, celebrating excellence and innovation in the Chicagoland and Illinois tech community, is set to take place on September 19, 2024. Nominations are now open until June 12, 2024. 

The Momentum Awards, a cornerstone of Chicago’s tech community, recognizes outstanding individuals, team leaders, and companies who disrupt their industries and drive societal impact and economic growth within the tech sector. 1871 and the greater Chicagoland and Illinois community honor these trailblazers in 8 award categories. 

“Exciting times lie ahead as we open the gates for nominations,” said Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871. “Our tech community has showcased incredible innovation and impact across diverse industries, technologies, and functions this year. We’re thrilled to welcome nominations from all corners of Chicagoland, eager to shine a spotlight on the outstanding companies and individuals driving our collective journey forward. Join us as we celebrate and recognize the transformative power of innovation.”

Nominations are open to individuals and organizations across various sectors, including early, growth, and late-stage startups, corporate innovators, and community leaders. Finalists and winners will be selected by a panel of esteemed judges representing diverse expertise and perspectives within the tech ecosystem. 

1871’s 2023 Momentum Awards winners were an array ​​of visionary startups, corporate innovators, and companies who have made significant strides in advancing technology and entrepreneurship. From groundbreaking products and services to impactful initiatives and leadership, each awardee exemplifies the spirit of innovation and resilience that defines Chicago’s tech landscape.

 

Award categories 

Rising Star: Presented to an early-stage company that is positioned to grow into a leader in its market. 

Momentum: Presented to a growth company with the strongest potential to emerge as a leader in its market.

CityLIGHTS: Presented to a late-stage company that is becoming a category leader.

Outstanding Tech CEO: Presented to a CEO who has successfully scaled and nurtured their company through outstanding leadership.

Industry Disrupter: Presented to a company that has developed an innovative product that has the potential to significantly disrupt their industry. 

Social Impact: Presented to a company that has fostered a commitment to DEI, community contributions, and social impact.

Corporate Champion: Presented to a company that champions the growth of the Illinois tech industry through community-focused action. 

Chicagoness: Presented to an individual who exemplifies the values of the Chicago entrepreneurial community & empowers future innovators.

Rising Star, Momentum, CityLIGHTS, Outstanding Tech CEO, and Social Impact are open to public nomination and voting; The Corporate Champion and Chicagoness awards are closed to public nomination and voting, and will be determined by a selected committee. 

To learn more about the significance of The Momentum Awards, its award categories, and how to submit a nomination, attend an information session on June 6th or June 7th 2024. 

Nominations are now open to the public for several award categories. Multiple entries accepted. Submit by 6.12.24 for consideration.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact momentum@1871.com and visit our website to view  sponsorship guides and year-long benefits. 

For media inquiries, please contact J Blaszczykiewicz, Head of Marketing at press@1871.com.

 

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.

by

ScaleUp 2024 Unpacked - A Technology Conference for Innovative Founders & Inspiring Leaders

In the heart of Chicago, a city renowned for its resilience and transformative spirit, 1871 hosted its 7th annual ScaleUp technology conference this May to celebrate the thinkers and doers who are redefining the tech landscape.

Go to our Five Essential Takeaways As You Build & Scale in Today’s Market below.

Designed specifically for growth and late-stage founders, team leaders, and innovators who typically are “heads down” in their work, this year’s ScaleUp was an active day of programming and networking. The day was  a resounding success, bringing together the brightest minds in tech for a day of innovation, community, and transformative insights across industry and function.

“Today is designed to support you on this phase of your journey and your team’s journey. It’s where your initial spark of an idea undergoes this rigorous test of market realities and customer demands,” said Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871. “ It’s a series of peaks and valleys, and each valley is a lesson that strengthens you for the next peak. Keep pushing, keep doing, keep asking for help. The future isn’t just something that happens, it’s something we create together.” 

From opening remarks to the closing keynote with Jaron Waldman, Chief Product Officer of Cohere, the event was packed with dynamic panels, interactive workshops, and inspiring discussions about navigating challenges, celebrating successes, and embracing the “messy middle” of building, scaling, and leading a business. 

Relive the best moments of the day in our 2024 ScaleUp technology conference playlist!

ScaleUp 2024 Unpacked: Five Essential Takeaways As You Build & Scale in Today’s Market

The energy and enthusiasm of this year’s speaker lineup was palpable as founders, leaders, and innovators shared their professional journeys, challenges, and success. Beyond their impressive career paths and note-worthy accomplishments, the message was clear: being a founder & leader in today’s market is A JOURNEY!

Here are 5 key takeaways from founders and leaders that YOU can use as you continue to build your company and take it to new heights. 

1. Embrace the “messy middle”

In a panel discussion moderated by David Soto, Chief Investment Strategic Officer at Azelera Capital, panelists Tessa Flippin, Founder & Managing Partner at Capital VC, Aashish Dalal, General Partner at Venture Studio, and Mike Rome, Fractional CMO & CGO, Startup Advisor at Moonwater, discussed the challenges of being a startup and the opportunities for growth in ‘Breaking Through the Messy Middle.’ 

The “messy middle” is a challenging phase in a startup’s journey where initial excitement has faded, and the hard work of scaling begins. The panelists discussed maintaining mental resilience, embracing difficulties, and continuously adapting their strategies and products based on customer feedback, retention, and market demands. 

According to Rome, successful startups often have teams that are disciplined in their approach, consistently prioritize and execute growth experiments, and learn from failures. 

2. The power of culture, community, and balance in startups

In ‘Leading a Startup to A Scaleup’ leader panel discussion, panelists Cindy Don, Head of Software Engineering at Pangea Money Transfer, Varvara Alva, COO & CFO of Avid Bots, and Whitney Capps, Principal of ClearSpace discussed the important factors of elevating a startup for growth and success. 

According to the group, critical success factors for scaling companies is finding the right balance between flexibility and structure in the startup, building intentional culture, and supporting employees to deter from burnout.

Flexibility is vital in the early stages for quick pivots and innovation, while structure becomes necessary as the organization grows to ensure accountability and efficient operations. Teams need clear goals and boundaries to explore within, promoting innovation without risking the stability of the business.

A company’s culture should also be more than just mission statements and perks; it should be reflected in everyday actions and decisions. Maintaining a strong, inclusive culture requires consistent efforts to integrate new employees, celebrate small wins, and model the desired behaviors. 

Kirsten Ramos, President at Elevate suggested similar approaches in her breakout workshop, ‘The Art of Managing Others.’ 

Supporting employee well-being involves creating spaces for social connection, recognizing individual contributions, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Leaders should strive to create an environment where employees feel seen, heard, and supported both professionally and personally.

3. Build & rebuild your “dream” team

In ‘Leading a Startup to A Scaleup” founder panel discussion, moderator Caroline Vial, PhD, Founder & CEO at Upward Bound Executive Coaching, and panelists Liz Tilatti, Fractional Executive & Advisor at Liz’s Lab, Jeremie Bacon, Co-Founder at The Forge, and Olivia vonNieda, VP Business Operations at McKesson, shared their personal insights on running a startup and the importance of having the right people by your side. 

The journey from startup to scaleup involves continuous challenges, and founders and leaders alike need to recognize that different phases of growth require different skill sets and team structures. 

According to the group, a successful startup must be open to replacing team members and hiring new ones with the appropriate skills for the current stage of the company. The founder’s role is to navigate this process honestly and strategically, ensuring that the team evolves to meet new demands and goals.

This may involve making tough decisions about when to hire or fire, making efforts to build strong relationships with team members, and aligning the individual’s skills and strengths with the company’s growth trajectory — yes, including your investors. 

4. Identify and engage your ideal consumer with emotional appeal

In ‘Brand Talk: How to Scale Up by Standing Out’  breakout session led by Scout Driscoll, Founder & CEO @ DesignScout, Faith Hurley, Co-Founder @ Pinpoint Collective, and Amanda Wurzbach, Founder & Creative Lead @ Total Dish, discussed the importance of standing out as a brand to connect with your ideal consumers. 

According to the trio, branding is about creating an emotional connection with consumers, as people often make purchasing decisions based on feelings rather than rational thoughts. Successful branding starts with a deep understanding of the ideal consumer and conducting qualitative research to understand the motivations and needs of the target audience. 

By focusing on the whole person and their lifestyle, brands can create personalized, “made for me” moments that resonate deeply with consumers. This approach helps in developing a brand that speaks directly to the target audience’s needs and preferences, leading to a stronger emotional connection and brand loyalty.

5. Build fast, grow smart: Navigating early innovation & organizational growth

Our closing keynote with Jaron Waldman, Chief Product Officer of Cohere was nothing short of inspiring! With his professional background of building,scaling, and leading several successful businesses, Waldman emphasized the importance of diving into building and iterating quickly, especially in the rapidly evolving AI and large language models (LLMs) space. 

During periods of rapid growth, Waldman underscored the importance of surrounding oneself with capable and ambitious people who can take on new responsibilities. He advised leaders to delegate effectively, support their team members, and embrace the inevitable chaos that comes with rapid expansion. Trusting and empowering the team is crucial to managing growth and maintaining momentum!

Thank you to all the incredible speakers, attendees, and innovators who made ScaleUp 2024 a huge success. From groundbreaking insights and inspiring keynotes to invaluable networking opportunities, this year’s conference was all about driving growth and innovation.

This day would not have been possible without the support from our sponsors Invest Northern Ireland, Google for Startups, and T-Mobile Wholesale. 

We can’t wait to see you next year for ScaleUp 2025, where we’ll bring you even more transformative ideas and growth-centered programming to life. 

by

SnapRefund and Benekiva Announce Game-Changing Partnership to Revolutionize Insurance Claims Process

April 17, 2024 – In a landmark move set to transform the insurance industry, SnapRefund and Benekiva are excited to officially unveil their partnership, heralding a new era in the seamless processing and management of insurance claims. This collaboration marries SnapRefund’s leading-edge digital payment solutions with Benekiva’s pioneering claim management software, creating an unparalleled ecosystem for insurance carriers and claimants alike. 

SnapRefund, known for its innovative approach to simplifying the insurance payout process through its ClaimsSnap technology, has joined forces with Benekiva, a powerful company in the claims management solution sphere. This partnership is poised to address the entire spectrum of the insurance claim process, from initiation through to final payout, establishing a benchmark in digital efficiency and customer satisfaction. 

Bobbie Shrivastav, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer at Benekiva, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: “We’re proud to announce our collaboration with SnapRefund and their innovative ClaimsSnap product, aligning our shared commitment to revolutionizing the digital landscape of insurance claims. Benekiva’s platform digitizes every step of the claims process, from intake to payout, empowering carriers to offer seamless digital payment solutions to claimants. With our integration, we’re bridging the gap between traditional insurance practices and modern customer expectations, ushering in a new era of efficiency and convenience in claim processing.” 

Echoing the sentiment, Cody Eddings, CEO of SnapRefund, outlined the transformative potential of this partnership: “We are thrilled to announce our groundbreaking partnership with Benekiva. SnapRefund’s value in the insurance space has long been to digitize the claims payment process for insurers thanks to the innovation of our flagship product: ClaimsSnap. Our teams have worked closely to create a seamless integration between the Benekiva and ClaimsSnap platforms from the ground up, making it very easy for our mutual clients to leverage the strengths of Benekiva’s claims management system in tandem with the ClaimsSnap payment platform. Together, our partnership allows carriers to meet claimants wherever they are, all while gaining useful insights and employing vastly streamlined workflows. The future is certainly bright.” 

About Benekiva: 

Benekiva’s SaaS technologies seamlessly connect to any legacy, out-of-the-box, or custom-built policy management system to provide a collaborative and automated single claims platform. From intake to payout, and everything in between, Benekiva can become the claims solution for your entire product portfolio including life, annuity, long-term care, and disability products. Benekiva works closely with stakeholders to create a scalable plan using our crawl, walk, run implementation methodology so carriers can begin realizing the value of their investment within weeks, not months or years. 

About SnapRefund: 

SnapRefund is at the forefront of digital payment solutions in the insurance sector, offering the ClaimsSnap platform that allows insurers to send claim payments with unparalleled ease, employing automation and analytics to elevate operational efficiency and enhance policyholder retention. SnapRefund is committed to financially empowering individuals & businesses and providing them with more control over their finances.

 

by

1871 Announces 2024 WMNtech Founders Cohort

1871’s 17th annual WMNtech Founders program kicked off in April 2024, and we’re excited to announce the 37 women tech founders participating in the cohort. 

The WMNtech Founders program —dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs through curated programming, mentorship, and resources— plays a crucial role in addressing the gender gap in tech entrepreneurship. 

Through this initiative, 1871 reaffirms its commitment to creating a supportive environment that supports and accelerates the growth of women-led tech businesses. WMNtech Founders is supported by Molson Coors. 

2024 WMNtech Founders cohort members 

This dynamic and innovative group of women entrepreneurs are not just building extraordinary startups, but are shaping the future of technology and women-led initiatives. 

Adrianna Pinzariu, Founder of SKIIP

Alexis Clash, Founder & CEO of Thespi 

Amy Briggs, Founder of Sitter Found 

Aubrey Ottenstein, Founder & CEO of Hilltop 

Aurora Diaz, Founder of The Jefas 

Bailey Reinhart, Founder of Nouri  

Brianna Solola

Bridgette Washington, Founder & CEO of RaveVenn 

Callie Kim, Founder & CEO of Waban Impact LLC

Cassandra Rommel, Co-Founder of Resin 

Catherean Mitchell, Director of Logistics at Mitchells Logistics

Cindy Paulauskas, President & CEO of Rivet360 

Dinae Ila, Founder of Pawns + Pixels STEM PMO, NFP

Emily Woodman-Nance, Co-Founder & CEO of At Their Side

Grace Frison, Founder of OM Life Compass

J Lewis, Founder & CEO of Valusync 

Jacq Birkel, Founder of Round

Janet Freed, Founder of STRIDE Wellness 

Jennifer Baumann, Founder & Director of Business Development at Glassy.House 

Jing Chen

Katie Erdmann, Co-Founder of Quencie 

Ksenia Solomatina, Founder & CEO of PowerTechs

Latienda Williams, Founder & CEO of Best Seeds 

Lynette Correa-Velez, Founder of The Pagame Project 

Makini Allwood, Founder & CEO of plait 

Margarita Moreno, Founder & CEO of LatinXChange 

Martyna Paruch, Co-Founder & CTO of MJ Ventures 

Niki St Pierre, Founder & Managing Partner of NSP & Company 

Paulina Sanchez, Founder & CEO of FullFace 

Pushkala Subramanian, Founder of Hellowiz 

Rebecca Abraham, Founder & CEO of Acute on Chronic 

Robin Hardrick, Founder of The Hardrick Museum 

Rujanee Mahakanjana, Founder of Pixquid LLC

Sarah Stilz, Founder of Holos Integrative Healthcare  

Shayna Tsai, Founder & Chief Style Officer of HangRr – Savvy Closet Inc.

Tiffany Yvonne, Founder of PLAYmaker Solutions 

Trina Ntamere, Principal of Lavender Eucalyptus 

About the program 

WMNtech Founders is a 10-week program devoted to empowering early-stage women tech founders as they elevate their startups with unique resources, programming, and community-building initiatives. The cohort virtually meets every Tuesday from 3:00 to 5:00 PM CST, spanning from 4.16.24 – 6.25.24. 

WMNtech Founders consists of 4 parts: Share-outs, roundtables, leadership development workshops, and dedicated Entrepreneur-in-Residence office hours with Liz Tilatti. These 4 parts are designed to give women entrepreneurs an environment to connect with a community of women founders, gain guidance and insights from leaders in tech such as Bridget Lohrius, CEO & Founder of SANDWINA, and education for solutions to commonly held issues or “roadblocks” of being a women founder. 

1871’s WMNtech initiatives 

WMNtech Founders is part of 1871’s umbrella of programming centered around inspiring, equipping, and supporting women founders and leaders through tailored programming and mentorship initiatives, including WMNtech Leaders, WMNtech Pitch Competition, and 1871’s CRG, WMNtech Voices. 

Interested in partnering with us or supporting WMNtech Founders? Connect with our team or donate to our mission! 

by

Cracking the Code: Insider Look into 1871's 15th Annual Student & Graduate Coding Competition

This April 2024, 1871 ignited the coding spirit with their 15th annual Tech Challenge, in partnership with World Business Chicago!  Held on 4.11 & 4.12 at 1871’s vibrant Chicago office, this event was a coder’s paradise, bringing together a dynamic group of university students & recent graduates passionate about coding for a 2-day final round coding competition.

Designed to highlight the brightest emerging talent, this year’s Tech Challenge received over 100 submissions from coders across the nation in the first round, the Qualifying Challenge. This round assessed the participants’ coding skills, accuracy, and problem-solving speed.

After deliberation, the top 44 students and recent graduates advanced to the final coding round. Several students from across the Midwest joined us in person, with coders located across the nation participating virtually, all competing for the opportunity to win cash prizes and other participation awards.

 The atmosphere was electric as participants tackled complex problems and pushed the boundaries of coding innovation. It wasn’t just a competition; it was a celebration of creativity, coding, and the future of tech! 

Relive the best moments from the 2024 Tech Challenge in our recap playlist! 

2024 Tech Challenge winners 

1871 is blown away with the incredible skills & coding mastery shown at the event! Congratulations to our 2024 winners: 

 

Virtual winners

  • Peter J., Purdue University
  • Henry B., University of Chicago
  • Andrew P., University of California Los Angeles
  • Kevin S., Georgia Institute of Technology

In-person winners

  • Md A., recent graduate at New York University 
  • Ivan G., University of Chicago
  • Tyler M., Rose-Hulman
  • Grace D., Per Scholas

Thanks to all who participated: 

Aditya R., Illinois Institute of Technology 

Alec K., University of Iowa 

Alexander Y., New York University

Andrew P., University of California, Los Angeles 

Andrew D., University of Chicago 

Anudeep G., Illinois Institute of Technology 

Arnav B., University of Chicago 

Aruv D., University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Bradley H., Georgia Institute of Technology 

Brian Z., Georgia Institute of Technology 

Brian C., University of Chicago 

Chandhu B., University of Illinois at Chicago 

Chris M., Lewis University 

Dean G., Georgia Institute of Technology 

Divya P., University of Chicago 

Eric C., University of California, San Diego 

Haard P., Illinois Institute of Technology

Harold N., Trinity Christian College 

Henry B., University of Chicago 

Ian A., Georgia Institute of Technology 

James L., Stony Brook University 

Jawad D., Carnegie Mellon University 

Jerry S., Oregon State University

Jonathan Z., University of California, San Diego 

Kevin S., Georgia Institute of Technology 

Grace D., Per Scholas 

Leo W., University of Texas at Austin 

Md A., New York University 

Naftali B., Illinois Institute of Technology 

Nikhil D., Northern Illinois University 

Nitish D., University of Illinois at Chicago 

Peter J., Purdue University

Po-Ju C., University of Chicago 

Richie S., DePaul University

Riya B., Northeastern Illinois University 

Sai Ram O., Illinois Institute of Technology

Savar J., University of Connecticut 

Sohini B., University of Chicago 

Thitapa S., DePaul University 

Tyler M., Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology 

Vanishnavi G., University of Chicago 

William O., Case Western Reserve University 

Yejun P., University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 

Hear from our 2024 Tech Challenge participants on what makes this event so unique!

The Tech Challenge experience

At 1871, we’re all about connecting key players in tech for innovation – and our reach spans to young talent in universities! The competition provides students & recent graduates the opportunity to showcase their coding skills and connect them with 1871’s community of member companies looking for young emerging talent. 

In-person participants also had opportunities to network with other talented coders, tour 1871’s HQ, and hear industry insights from member companies & partner representatives, including Trenton Dun, Director at ThinkChicago, Disha Gulati, CEO and Founder of Here Here Market, and Bazyl Horsey, Chief Technology & Product Officer of Arvist. 

 

Importance of  Tech Challenge Initiatives

The competitions aim to be both fun and intellectually stimulating, encouraging coders to think outside-the-box, come up with innovative solutions, and showcase their talents to potential connections and mentors in the tech field.

“At 1871, these tech challenges are not just about competition; they’re integral to our mission,” said Jessica Prath, Director of Talent Programs at 1871. “They drive innovation and open doors to new opportunities. Connecting emerging talent to our community creates a path for the future of technology.”

Interested in sponsoring this event? Connect with Jessica, jprath@1871.com, or donate to our mission! 

by

Memories from 1871's 2024 Career Fair

1871 hosted its 2024 Career Fair on 3.27, bringing together an impressive array of hiring companies for in-person networking and invaluable connections with job seekers eager to enter the job market. 

Over 300 attendees joined this year, spanning from current university students, recent graduates, and career changers alike, to connect, learn about, and explore unparalleled internship & job opportunities. The Career Fair was buzzing with entrepreneurial curiosity and spirit! 

With a diverse range of industries represented, from Cannabis-centered companies to healthcare to airlines, attendees were given a glimpse into the future of work, where technology, innovation, and career growth shine bright! 

Thanks to our member companies & partners who joined us, including representatives from: Arvist, Ashling Partners, Culture City, ETHChicago, Filter Folder, Holos Integrative Healthcare, mHUB, MoveMind, nuEra Cannabis, Perforator, Quality Builders, TexChange Unbrokered Inc., The Green Zone, Tusk Logistics, and United Airlines. 1871, of course, got in on the action too! 

Hear from attendees & recruiters about their experience at 1871’s Career Fair. 

“I received over 100 resumes in person, and engaging with so many talented individuals was not just inspiring, but also a testament to the incredible potential that Chicago holds in the tech industry, whether traditional or non-traditional backgrounds,” said Christian Gaona, Founder & CEO of TexChange Unbrokered Inc. “Thank you to all those who stopped by our table; your passion and curiosity for innovation is what drives Chicago’s tech scene forward. I can’t wait to see what the future holds!” 

Thank you to all who joined us, and we will see you next year for Career Fair 2025! 

Interested in joining Team 1871 this summer? Browse our open 2024 summer internship opportunities. 

Subscribe

Questions?

Contact us
Menu

1871 is a registered 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization.

© 1871 2023 | See privacy policy