The 1871 Annual Fund
Your contribution empowers us to inspire, equip, and support founders building extraordinary businesses.
The impact of giving
A startup founder’s experience at 1871 is brought to life by many committed and enthusiastic individuals and organizations. Our supporters are a vital part of our ecosystem.
- Support diversity scholarships for underrepresented founders
- Expand programming and pilot new learning modules
- Recruit industry experts to serve as mentors
- Create connections between founders and funders
Donor Recognition
We recognize donors to the 1871 Annual Fund at the following levels*:
Champion ($1,000+)
- Invitation to annual “State of the Union” call with 1871 CEO Betsy Ziegler and Board Chairman Larry Eppley
- Invitations to attend four member-only events throughout the year
- Name recognition in the 1871 Donor Honor Roll
- Name recognition in the 1871 Annual Report
- 1871 T-shirt
- Discounts on Momentum Awards tickets
Investor ($999 and below)
- Invitations to attend two member-only events throughout the year
- Name recognition in the 1871 Donor Honor Roll
- Name recognition in the 1871 Annual Report
- 1871 sticker
*Giving level membership is based on cumulative contributions made to the Annual Fund during 1871/Chicagoland Entrepreneurial Center’s fiscal year (July 1 – June 30).
Get in Touch
Interested in joining the community of founders at Chicago’s central digital technology hub, but not sure where to begin? Leave us a message and we will get in touch.
222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza
Floor 12, Suite 1212
Chicago, IL 60654