CHICAGO, March 13, 2023- 1871 has opened applications for their WMNtech Founders program, starting April 2023. This unique affinity offering runs for twelve weeks, combining professional development curriculum, mentoring, and peer group development to elevate women tech founders and their startups. Applications for both members and non-members will be accepted through April 3rd, 2023. The program will run from 4.11.23 – 6.20.23, every Tuesday, from 3:00 – 5:00 PM CST.
This cohort is designed to create a safe, judgment-free space for women founders to meet others in similar entrepreneurial situations to connect and address unique challenges they face due to their gender.
“I truly believe this program is vital as it focuses solely on the founder, which is often neglected by founders when it comes to starting their company,” said Alysha-Aubrey Bursey, Senior Director of Affinity Programs at 1871. “It’s unfortunately inevitable these women will face tough entrepreneurial challenges simply because they are women founders. 1871 strives to arm them with the skills and tools necessary to not only face these challenges, but overcome them. It’s an honor to watch the positive impact this program has on their journey – not just during and immediately after the cohort, but for years to come.”
WMNtech Founders is supported by Molson Coors. This will be the 16th cohort of the program.
About the experience
Key takeaways for participants in the program:
- Learn how to maximize their key leadership skills
- Gain confidence in themselves and their startups
- Overcome obstacles one faces when starting a business
- Build reputable relationships with experienced founders and 1871 members who are dedicated to supporting this group.
“WMNtech Founders provided me with a community of women who I could grow with over several weeks through a transformative cohort experience filled with workshops and share outs,” said Sara Agate, CEO & Founders of MuniTask. “ The potential for relationship building and skill sharing has been valuable beyond the cohort. Many thanks to those who make this program possible!”
“As a Black woman in tech & solo founder, it’s tough to find the “right” community to help you take your start-up to the next level,” said Ayrika Craig, Founder of Barter-E. ” I joined the cohort hoping to connect with like-minded individuals to help me navigate the journey of becoming a great founder. After completing this program I was not only able to connect with like-minded individuals, but also gain tons of wisdom that has saved me time and money! Being able to hear and have access to founders who have walked the current path I’m on is PRICELESS. I believe there is power in community and 1871 has provided me with the right amount of knowledge to keep moving forward.”
Important Dates
- Non-Member Information sessions:
- Member-only Q&A
- Applications close April 3rd, 2023
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.
Join as an 1871 Early Stage Member.
Attend info sessionSubscribe to our ICYMI newsletter.
Share this post:
