The FoodTech Innovation Summit brings together the most influential voices across the food ecosystem for a dynamic, one-day experience. Join founders, investors, corporate leaders, and innovators for exclusive insights, meaningful connections, and conversations driving the future of food. Designed as a catalyst for industry disruption, 1871’s Innovation Summits convene 250+ startups, investors, corporate partners, and experts to explore emerging technologies, uncover new opportunities, and shape what’s next in FoodTech.
Who You’ll Meet
We strategically connect the core pillars of the industry.
Founders
Visionaries building the next generation of InsurTech.
Corporates
Industry leaders looking to scale and integrate innovation.
Investors
Strategic capital seeking the next big breakthrough.
Innovation Ecosystem
The mentors, experts, and allies driving growth.
What to Expect
✅ Deep-Dive Insights: Keynotes and panels from leaders shaping the future of food, agriculture, and food technology.
✅ Strategic Connections: Curated opportunities to connect with founders, investors, operators, and partners across the food ecosystem.
✅ Startup Showcases: First looks at the technologies transforming how food is produced, distributed, and consumed.
Meet Our Keynote Speaker
Linxin Wen is the CEO and co-founder of Chowbus, where he has led the company’s evolution from a niche Asian food delivery app into a fast-scaling, AI-powered restaurant platform. Under his leadership, Chowbus has expanded to all 50 U.S. states and raised more than $209 million in funding. At its core, Chowbus is about more than delivery — it’s about connecting cultures through food and giving independent, culturally rooted restaurants the technology they need to compete, grow, and thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Linxin and his team got their start at 1871, where they built the early foundation of the company and community that fueled their growth. In 2020, Chowbus was recognized with the Rising Star Award at the Momentum Awards, and today, they stand as proof that when you back founders with conviction and community, Chicago companies don’t just grow, they scale nationally and shape entire categories.
Agenda Highlights
April 23, 2026 5:00pm -7:30pm
Corp Inno Lunch: Dive into how corporate innovation leaders are driving change within large organizations. Attendance is acceptance based. Register.
Founder & Investor Lunch: An exclusive, private gathering for the 1871 Foodtech Innovation Lab Portfolio. Building the future of Foodtech? Join the portfolio.
Keynote Conversations: Fireside Chat Linix Wen, CEO & Co-Founder of Chowbus.
Startup Pitch Showcases: Hear directly from our exclusive portfolio founders as they demonstrate how their solutions are transforming the FoodTech landscape.
Startup Alley & Happy Hour: Discover the latest innovations from our portfolio companies while connecting with summit attendees.