1871 Announces the Launch of AI Innovation Lab 2024

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1871’s Second Annual AI Innovation Lab Built with Why of AI Brings Together Major Players to Unlock the Full Potential of Artificial Intelligence to Transform Industries.

1871

J Blaszczykiewicz

Sr. Director of Marketing

Press@1871.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Chicago, February 6, 2024 — 1871, global innovation hub launches its second annual AI Innovation Lab, a 4-month experience built to uniquely connect mature startups and corporates in artificial intelligence, starting April 2024. We’re excited to have Why of AI, an industry leader helping organizations design customized AI strategies, as a returning partner for this year’s AI lab and Why of AI’s CEO and NU Kellogg MBAi Professor, Alex Castrounis, as the Lab’s Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR). Other supporters this year include Microsoft, Discover, and World Business Chicago. Applications are now open until March 4, 2024. 

The AI Innovation Lab unites growth and late-stage startups with corporate partners, investors, and AI operators to collaborate on tackling critical challenges and breaking ground on solutions for future transformational use of artificial intelligence across industries. This spring, 1871’s InsurTech Innovation Lab will run in parallel with the AI Innovation Lab. 

“AI is not just buzz. It’s revolutionizing industries, outcomes, and productivity for organizations and people worldwide. Trustworthy AI has massive potential to benefit humanity and our planet if used responsibly,” said Alex Castrounis, CEO of Why of AI. “That’s why launching our second AI Innovation Lab is so thrilling. I can’t wait to see how our new cohort’s AI-focused business leaders and solutions are solving real-world problems and making the world a better place.”

“AI is transforming problem-solving and innovation, rapidly changing team dynamics and product development in every industry, companies small to big,” said Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871. “More than a tool, AI marks a significant shift, empowering those who embrace it with a super-powered asset. Our AI Innovation Lab ensures you’re not just adapting but leading in this new technological era.”

 

AI Innovation Lab 2024 Highlights

The AI Innovation Lab will operate from 04.01.24 to 06.29.24, focusing on several areas for cohort members to explore, identify, and collaborate to solve real-world problems and innovate with AI and machine learning tech. Startups serving domains across the 2024 focus areas will be considered for the cohort. 

Those eligible to join the Lab:

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

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

Information sessions will be held on 2.08 and 2.22 to provide attendees with a detailed lab curriculum, key dates, and the benefits of participating in the 2024 lab. 

 

2024 Lab focus areas 

This Lab focuses on several “focus areas” for cohort members to explore, identify, and collaborate to solve real-world problems and innovate responsibly with AI. 

High-level focus areas include: 

  • Efficient & Scalable Data Infrastructure
  • Efficient & Scalable AI Infrastructure 
  • MLOps & ML Workflow
  • AI Governance & Compliance
  • Grounded & Trustworthy AI
  • Multimodal & Generative AI

As our go-to execution partner, Why of AI contributes extensive real-world AI experience and expertise across industries to help design every aspect of the Lab. 

Within the Lab, participants are connected to experts, enthusiasts, and investors through an immersive series of workshops and other experiences throughout the program. The lab experience alternates between virtual and in-person sessions, convening for two weeks in April, a week in May, and a final week in June 2024. 

The program ends with a capstone-like AI Innovation Summit on 06.27.24, a public event dedicated to a full day of immersive programming centered on AI innovation. 

About 1871 Innovation Labs

The Innovation Labs are 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 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,

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

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

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 Alex Castrounis 

Alex Castrounis is the founder and CEO of Why of AI, a book author on AI, and a professor of AI for Northwestern University’s Kellogg & McCormick MBAi program. He has over two decades of experience advising startups to Fortune 100 companies on using data, analytics, and AI models to drive business growth and customer success. He is also a former INDYCAR engineer, race strategist, and data scientist who drove winning results for teams such as Andretti Autosport in world-renowned races, including the Indy 500.

1871 and Why of AI are looking forward to a groundbreaking year of collaboration and innovation at the 2024 AI Innovation Lab. We invite the press and the public to join us in exploring the future of the AI industry.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Chicago, January 24, 2024 – 1871, a nonprofit global innovation hub, announces its list of the 2024 cohort members for its first-ever Web3 Innovation Lab, in partnership with Advanced Technology Cluster and US Blockchain Coalition, supported by Hyperledger, Fenwick, and Genesis Block. 

The Web3 Innovation Lab marks the 5th Innovation Lab created by 1871, running in parallel with 1871’s second annual Cannabis Innovation Lab for the Winter 2024 season. The Web3 Innovation Lab offers a cutting-edge platform for growth-stage entrepreneurs and startups within the Web3 and decentralized tech industry. 

This dedicated lab fosters innovation, collaboration, and growth, providing cohort members access to resources and industry-specific expertise from VCs, late-stage and corporate partners, and industry enthusiasts to solve leading Web3 issues for industry transformations. 

The U.S. Blockchain Coalition’s co-founder and executive director, Arry Yu, will be playing the vital role of the Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) for the 2024 lab. This year’s focus areas are Building out the Digitally Native Middleware, All Things Identity, Enabling Government, Enabling Enterprise, Use Cases for Normies, and Layer’s 0’s & 1’s. 

The 28 selected cohort participants will collaborate with one another and the entire Web3 and decentralized tech innovation ecosystem through 4 immersive weeks of curated programming, workshops, and problem-solving sessions. 

Cohort members have solutions spanning Web3 and the decentralized tech sector, covering the 2024 focus areas. Connect with the 2024 cohort and discover their innovative startups at our upcoming public immersive weeks. 

2024 Cohort Members 

14bis Supply Tracking | Eleanor Mitch, CEO

14bis Supply Tracking ensures end-to-end accountability of assets across systems and industries so nothing gets lost or forged. We started working with Aerospace and Defense logistics and supply chain customers to increase mission readiness by providing access to verified data insights to increase margins, security, and efficiency. Like the highly intelligent and adaptable octopus, our company leverages a layer that sits on top of all your existing systems, you don’t have to rip out or replace anything. 

Web3 Lab focus area: Enabling Enterprise 

Bitpowr Technologies | Oyetoke Toby, CEO & Founder 

Bitpowr is building critical blockchain infrastructure for financial institutions and digital asset businesses to build financial products. Bitpowr offers an all-in-one platform that provides simple APIs and SDKs for businesses to spin up and manage thousands of wallets across multiple blockchains deploy and embed programmable MPC Custody solutions to secure and manage digital assets operations. 

Web3 Lab focus area: Enabling Enterprise 

BlockSpan | Jon Pastor, CEO & Co-Founder 

BlockSpan is a comprehensive NFT data API and analytics solution. Our platform’s core functionality encompasses detailed indexing of metadata and token activity, advanced pricing data extraction, rarity and spam score calculations, and optimized caching of media files across multiple chains. We provide a simple-to-use API, with one consistent call across chains, for developers to integrate into their applications.

Web3 Lab focus area: Building out the Digitally Native Middleware 

BlockSurvey, Inc. | Wilson Bright, CEO 

Web 3 form & survey platform. BlockSurvey empowers Web 3 companies to create and distribute forms & surveys with key features like verified Web 3 wallet address collection and token gating for use cases like airdrops, whitelists, and waitlists.

Web3 Lab focus area: Enabling Government 

Chainparency | Travis Reeder, CTO

Chainparency is on a mission to restore trust through community and technology. The company develops innovative blockchain-based applications and digital tools that enable enterprises and organizations globally to real-time collect and seamlessly record supply chain data on a distributed ledger for data integrity, preservation, and 24/7 auditability purposes. A mobile device and subscription to the company’s GoTrace application are all that is needed to deploy an end-to-end supply chain data collection and traceability solution at scale.

Web3 Lab focus area: Enabling Enterprise 

Credenza Inc. | Vicki Raimey, COO

Credenza, established in 2022, is powering the future of consumer engagement through the creation of a universal identification that captures actions across both digital and physical domains. From this, we provide a holistic and contextual view of each consumer, allowing for more personalized relationships, while unlocking new sustainable revenue streams.

Web3 Lab focus area: All Things Identity 

CryptoLegacy.ai | Sree Chintala, CEO 

CryptoLegacy.ai is revolutionizing Digital Asset Protection & Inheritance Planning. Our hacker and quantum-resistant vault safeguards crypto keys, passwords, and sensitive files and ensures seamless transfer of the assets to the designated beneficiaries.

Web3 Lab focus area: Use Cases for Normies 

Fresh Credit | Cesar Tinajero, Executive Director & Co-Founder 

FreshCredit is a fintech company that develops tools enabling credit anywhere. It increases access to credit on a global scale and empowers individuals to own and manage their data.

Web3 Lab focus area: Enabling Enterprise 

Gamr | Seyi Fakoya, CTO

Gamr is a next-generation platform for gamers to compete and get paid. Gamr App is live with 300k users, over 2,000 tournaments hosted, and paid out $100k to 2,000 gamers while generating $400k in revenue (B2B).

Web3 Lab focus area: Use Cases for Normies 

GradientFI | Michael Olorunninwo, CEO 

Programmable financial infrastructure for B2B and B2C digital platforms and marketplaces. 

Web3 Lab focus area: Enabling Enterprise 

IndyGeneUS | Yusuf Henriques, CEO & Founder 

IndyGeneUS is a precision medicine company using next-generation sequencing technologies to identify unique gene variants in diseases by pairing a patient-centric approach and philosophy with a proprietary Web3, blockchain-encrypted precision health discovery platform.

Web3 Lab focus area: All Things Identity 

Lit Protocol | David Sneider, Co-Founder 

Lit is an internet native security and identity network. With Lit, you can create and control keys and run code for virtually any application that can be made private, immutable, and / or autonomous.

Web3 Lab focus area: Building out the Digitally Native Middleware

MINTangible | Amyli McDaniel, CEO

MINTangible is an enterprise-grade intellectual property rights and legal management solution for Web3 digital assets.

Web3 Lab focus area: Building out the Digitally Native Middleware

Niftmint | Jonathan G. Blanco, CEO & Founder 

Niftmint provides brands with the tools to authenticate their products and experiences and create digital twins with tokenization. Niftmint is an API-first company that integrates into e-commerce platforms so marketers can one-click install and begin authenticating products without forcing complicated technology on the brand or their customers.

Web3 Lab focus area: Enabling Enterprise 

Qila.io | Sid Ugrankar, CEO

Qila is a Blockchain-as-a-Service offering that enables enterprises to adopt blockchain as a technology with a managed network infrastructure. 

Web3 Lab focus area: Enabling Enterprise 

QSTN | Orrin Campbell, CEO 

QSTN is a Web3 survey marketplace where businesses fund surveys, reward participants, and uphold user privacy through our data wallet-driven profiles.

Web3 Lab focus area: All Things Identity 

Raze Fintech Inc. | Brian Anderson, CEO

Raze is a disruptive operating system, enabling companies to raise capital in private markets with significantly less friction and cost by benefiting from blockchain technology, while substantially increasing transparency, access, automated compliance, and liquidity for their investors.  Since its inception in early 2022, Raze has been offering a unique way for startups to directly raise capital with their investor communities while offering innovative new tools and technologies to successfully close their round.

Web3 Lab focus area: Use Cases for Normies 

(Smart) | Thomas Crowley, VP, Product & Strategy 

​​(Smart) is a SaaS company developing blockchain-based solutions to empower consumers with their data. Specializing in B2B2C engagement, our initial focus lies in direct sales and homeowners’ data, leveraging our team’s deep industry experience.

Web3 Lab focus area: Enabling Enterprise 

SunDAO Network | Noel Myers, Co-Founder and President/COO

The SunDAO Network is a dynamic data as a service platform for the solar industry to locate, buy, sell, store and monetize solar data. 

Web3 Lab focus area: Layer 0’s & 1’s 

SUNN Blockchain | Meghan Hendley Lopez, CEO & Co-Founder 

SUNN Blockchain is focused on incentive driven and environmental standards towards a more distributed equitable future, emphasizing trust and transparency within the carbon and ESG market. SUNN works in tandem with corporations and government entities along with utilizing Environmental Real World Assets in collaboration with our blockchain technology.

Web3 Lab focus area: Layer 0’s & 1’s 

Taro Finance Inc. | Dominic Niolu, CEO & Founder 

Taro Finance is a real-world asset tokenization platform for private market securities. that compliantly utilizes crypto/DeFi rails to create infrastructure to drive access, transparency, and peer-to-peer secondary liquidity in private markets.

Web3 Lab focus area: Enabling Enterprise 

TexChange Unbrokered | Christian Gaona, CEO

TexChange Unbrokered is a digital B2B marketplace for private firms in hard industries to buy and sell their materials and services in the global market without brokers.

Web3 Lab focus area: Enabling Enterprise 

ULedger | Joe Honan, CEO 

ULedger is the leading data-integrity platform technology organization harnessing our patented AI, Machine Learning, and Blockchain Technologies to authenticate, validate & create public trust while maintaining data privacy. We provide the applications, infrastructure, and ecosystems for organizations of all sizes to transform and thrive in a global Web3 marketplace.

Web3 Lab focus area: Enabling Enterprise 

Vennity Inc. | Vlad Avesalon, Co-Founder & Product Lead 

Vennity is a cutting-edge location-based NFT platform that transforms the way creators engage with communities using digital collectibles. Utilizing augmented reality (AR) and geolocation, our platform offers a unique, map-based social network that encourages active exploration and interaction in both digital and physical worlds. This innovative approach not only bridges the digital-physical divide but also enhances real-world engagement, providing a thrilling and rewarding experience for users​​.

Web3 Lab focus area: Enabling Enterprise 

Velocity Career Labs | Dror Gurevich, CEO 

Velocity Career Labs (VCL) has developed a purpose-built decentralized protocol and blockchain network that serves as a public infrastructure for the exchange of verifiable, trusted, and globally interoperable self-sovereign career credentials, with an immediately addressable $30B global workforce verification market.

Web3 Lab focus area: All Things Identity 

Virtual Practicum | Dege Nsoki, Founder 

The AIpprenticeship™ by Virtual Practicum is revolutionizing tech education. Offering a self-directed curriculum, participants use data science, analytics, and AI to co-create their learning pathways. Upon completion of modules, participants receive unique NFT credentials, turning their achievements into valuable digital assets. With a 100% placement guarantee, this innovative learning experience combines a global community, hands-on projects, and a direct pathway to a successful tech career.

Web3 Lab focus area: Use Cases for Normies 

World Play League | Peter Tomala, CEO 

World Play League is a fan and community-owned game platform helping studios increase their monetization while creating a next-generation game league for players. With World Play League, players join a like-minded community with a vetted catalog of quality games, rewarding them for their time and talents.

Web3 Lab focus area: Use Cases for Normies 

Yeetum | Tobalo Torres-Valderas, Chief Architect 

Yeetum Intelligence Platform serves as a central hub for learning about cybersecurity and economics, featuring a weekly newsletter with updated cyber and economic intelligence. It also provides an information club membership and connects a network of executives and analysts.

Web3 Lab focus area: Use Cases for Normies 

About the program 

Cohort members will participate in 4-weeks of hybrid programming, alternating each week for virtual and in-person experiences in January, February, March, and April 2024. The program culminates with a capstone-like event, the 2024 Web3 Innovation Summit, open to public participation on 4.18.24. 

Subscribe to stay up-to-date on all Web3 Innovation Lab  + Summit news. 

For inquiries about involvement in partnering with us or learning more about sponsor options for the Web3 Innovation Summit, connect with our team. 

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.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Chicago, January 24, 2024 – 1871, a nonprofit global innovation hub, announces its list of the 2024 cohort members for its second annual Cannabis Innovation Lab, in partnership with Grown In and supported by Hoodie Analytics. 

Kicking off the 2024 Innovation Lab year and running in parallel with 1871’s first-ever Web3 Innovation Lab, the Cannabis Innovation Lab offers a cutting-edge platform for growth-stage entrepreneurs and startups in the cannatech industry. 

This dedicated space fosters innovation, collaboration, and growth, providing cohort members access to resources and industry-specific expertise from VCs, corporate partners, and industry enthusiasts to drive industry transformation. 

Grown In’s CEO, Brad Spirrison, returns for their second year of partnership, playing a vital role as the Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) for the 2024 lab. This year’s focus areas are Cannabis Beyond Consumption, Finance, Seed-to-Sale Supply Chain, Health & Wellness, and All Things Consumer. 

The 17 selected cohort participants will collaborate with one another and the entire canna tech innovation ecosystem through 4 immersive weeks of curated programming, workshops, and problem-solving sessions. 

Cohort members have solutions spanning the canna tech sector and covering the 2024 focus areas. Connect with the 2024 cohort and discover their innovative startups at our upcoming public immersive weeks. 

2024 Cohort Members 

Acute on Chronic | Rebecca Abraham, CEO & Founder  

Acute on Chronic is an innovative health tech impact start-up that combines traditional plant medicine with AI innovation while utilizing a dedicated team of registered nurses to provide compassionate care to unlock the power of plant medicine. We’re on a mission to help individuals and healthcare professionals harness the incredible therapeutic potential of medical or adult-use cannabis, botanicals, and psychedelics.

Cannabis Lab focus area: Health & Wellness 

Anami Technologies / GreenSpace | Michael Wilson, CEO & Founder 

Greenspace is a location-based software that allows customers to aggregate their data, manage their IP, and organize it all to their dispensary addresses. It includes a file management system that provides expiration functionality to manage time-sensitive items like licenses, leases, and other documents that expire or require reminders. Greenspace Pro has an integrated project management system to help manage licensing, construction, compliance, and audits with a fully integrated communication tool that aggregates all communications to a specific location, eliminating the need for texts and emails. 

Cannabis Lab focus area: Finance 

BonsaiBakery | Joshua Hernandez, Founder 

BonsaiBakery is a horticultural think tank dedicated to normalizing Ruderalis, and Cannabis as house plants.

Cannabis Lab focus area: Cannabis Beyond Consumption

Budscout AI | Tim Macal, CRO

Budscout is a team of experienced executives, data scientists, engineers, and problem solvers leveraging robotics and AI to change the paradigm in cannabis cultivation.  Budscout helps cultivators improve labor efficacy and efficiency while providing real-time plant health insights and localized environmental data to increase yield and quality.

Cannabis Lab focus area: Seed-to-Sale Supply Chain 

Cannatrac Financial Corp | Terry Patton, Chairman & Founder 

Cannatrac Financial Corp is innovating the future of financial services for the cannabis industry and beyond. The CannaCard App has evolved from payment and rewards to playing a vital role in the historic insurance reimbursement and cost-saving card programs for medical cannabis. These products and services are pioneering groundbreaking advancements in the intersection of finance and healthcare within the cannabis sector. With a strategic eye on medical cannabis rescheduling and global expansion, Cannatrac is poised to reshape the landscape of financial solutions in this rapidly evolving industry.

Cannabis Lab focus area: All Things Consumer 

CannaHauler | Nicholson Medlock, CEO & Founder  

CannaHauler is a Transportation Management System and Load Board for the cannabis industry. We help our customers save money, improve efficiency, and get paid faster.

Cannabis Lab focus area: Seed-to-Sale Supply Chain 

Canurta Inc. | Akeem Gardner, CEO 

Canurta is leading the world in the research and production of rare, multi-target polyphenols for complex inflammatory and neurological conditions. Combining advanced bioinformatics and proprietary manufacturing processes, Canurta can transform these compounds into active, high-quality biopharmaceutical ingredients with proven clinical activity and superior safety assurance.

Cannabis Lab focus area: Health & Wellness 

Cubbington’s Cabinet | Jennifer Weiss, CEO & Founder 

Cubbington’s Cabinet is a Chicago-based, woman-PhD-owned company on a mission to improve the quality of life for people and pets by providing a trustworthy source for quality, lab-tested, accurately labeled, and responsibly produced plant-based wellness products, including hemp-derived cannabinoids. Along with our own line of premium CBD, we offer carefully curated products conscientiously sourced from innovative, socially responsible businesses led by women, BIPOC, and other historically marginalized people.

Cannabis Lab focus area: Health & Wellness 

Cultivation Connect | Alex Wisniewski, CEO & Co-Founder  

Cultivation Connect provides an easy entry to precision agriculture for cannabis cultivators. Cultivators connect their choice of data logging sensors or control applications with our software tool to enhance their ability to independently detect issues and generate insights. By analyzing genetic, nutrient, and environmental data, Cultivation Connect enables data-driven cultivation decisions resulting in higher yields, better quality, reduced costs, and minimized waste.

Cannabis Lab focus area: Seed-to-Sale Supply Chain 

Drop Fleet | Vanessa Gabriel, CEO & Co-Founder  

Drop Fleet is a delivery management solution supporting businesses in efficiently allocating and monitoring their local deliveries. It enables seamless communication between businesses, drivers, and customers while prioritizing adherence to regulatory standards. Drop offers a robust web-based dispatcher platform and reporting dashboard, user-friendly iOS/Android mobile apps for drivers, automatic real-time customer notifications with tracking, and versatile APIs for seamless integration with 3rd party software, all with a strong emphasis on delivery compliance.

Cannabis Lab focus area: Seed-to-Sale Supply Chain 

Finli | Lori Shao, CEO 

Finli is a Certified B Corp on a mission to bridge the access gap for businesses (micro, small, mid-sized) and financial technology. We are a provider of digital back office that allows business owners and managers to focus on what they do best and offload administrative burdens such as customer management, billing, inventory management, contract management, pricing, and payment.

Cannabis Lab focus area: Finance 

Flourish Software | Conrad Schwabe, Account Executive

Flourish is a leading seed-to-sale supply chain and retail management platform built specifically for the cannabis, CBD, and hemp industries. Companies that cultivate, extract, manufacture, distribute, or retail cannabis, CBD, or hemp use Flourish’s software to drive their supply chain and retail operations, manage costs, and stay compliant. Flourish is deployed nationally, fully integrated with Metrc and Biotrack, and is proud to offer the industry’s leading API and integration capabilities.

Cannabis Lab focus area: Seed-to-Sale Supply Chain 

Function Botanicals | Alastair Greer, CEO & Founder 

Function Botanicals is a digital health company that combines quality, precise cannabis products with condition-specific dosage protocols designed to find your personalized and most effective dose.

Cannabis Lab focus area: Health & Wellness 

Keep It Compliant | Shawn “Pepper” Roussel, LA Barred Attorney/Agricultural & Food Law LLM and Agricultural Economics MS student – University of Arkansas at Fayetteville

Green Pepper Solutions is a solo practice by Pepper Roussel, a food law attorney and agricultural consultant. Green Pepper Solutions fills the critical space between advocacy and implementation, thereby providing the best opportunity for long-standing social change with the force of law.

Cannabis Lab focus area: Seed-to-Sale Supply Chain 

Kore Compliance, LLC | Ray Jorgensen, CEO  

Kore Compliance is a FinTech software company focused on a frictionless cannabis consumer experience around delivery and pre-order. The Budtendur product imitates ubiquitous software (e.g., PayPal, Zelle/Venmo, DoorDash/UberEats) that won’t work in cannabis due to federal illegality. Budtendur is a disrupting technology as it replaces a myriad of single-thread products for the price of one.

Cannabis Lab focus area: All Things Consumer 

Moodi Day | Biyerem Okengwu, CEO 

Moodi Day is a rewards platform for consumers to learn and share candid feedback with each other about cannabis products. Our mission is to normalize cannabis by increasing access to real experiences from everyday people about products available in licensed dispensaries.

Cannabis Lab focus area: All Things Consumer 

Outlaw Technology, LLC | David Eagleson Sr., CEO & Founder  

Outlaw is the industry leader in data capture automation. With our custom software deployed on our RFID handhelds and touchscreen tablets, we are able to capture and update via API integration to a wide range of software databases. The Outlaw goal is to eliminate pen and paper to drive efficiency and accuracy, thereby allowing our customers to do more with less.

Cannabis Lab focus area: Seed-to-Sale Supply Chain 

About the program 

Cohort members will participate in 4-weeks of hybrid programming, alternating each week for virtual and in-person experiences in January, February, March, and April 2024. The program culminates with a capstone-like event, the 2024 Cannabis Innovation Summit, open to public participation on 4.18.24. 

Subscribe to stay up-to-date on all Cannabis Innovation Lab  + Summit news. 

For inquiries about involvement in partnering with us or learning more about sponsor options for the Cannabis Innovation Summit, connect with our team. 

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.C

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Who Runs the World? Women in Tech! 1871 Opens Applications for Women Professionals in Technological or Market-Facing Roles to Join the Program for Leadership & Professional Development.

CHICAGO — January 8, 2024 – Global nonprofit innovation hub, 1871, has opened applications for their 6th annual WMNtech Leaders program, beginning February 2024. The accelerator and mentoring initiative aims to cultivate the next generation of women leaders in technological or market-facing managerial roles through curated leadership and personal development programming. Applications for the 2024 program will be accepted through February 2, 2024. 

We have partnered with Ethos, a culture consulting meets diversity, equity, and inclusion firm, for the development and execution of the program.  

About WMNtech Leaders 

Formerly known as Women Influence Chicago (WIC), WMNtech Leaders, established in 2019, aims to empower women in leading technical or market-facing roles within large corporations, providing participants with support and tools to enhance their personal and professional growth.

This experience is recruiting women professionals who are current employees in managerial roles within 1871’s growth-stage and corporate member companies, universities, and employees in administrative positions within an organization. Participation does not require 1871 membership. 

The initiative targets mid-career women professionals in the tech industry who demonstrate exceptional promise in their current roles and would benefit from the support provided by this experience. Participants must possess 3-10 years of management experience and work in a market-facing or technical role within a tech company.

Hear from a WMNtech Leaders alumni about her experience in the technical track. 

“This program provided me with the space, time, and resources to think about what kind of leader I want to be, and the skills I need to work on to get there,” said Elissa Trainer, App & Mobile Technology Director at Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants. “It gave me the confidence to work on things like setting boundaries, effective communication, knowing that I don’t always have to have the perfect answer, and to let go of things to give others the opportunity to grow and how to break larger goals out into smaller actions and strategies while providing a community of people to work with on these skills.”

Program Breakdown 

WMNtech Leaders runs for a full day of virtual programming one Friday per month from 2.16.24 – 6.06.24. 

Following orientation, cohort members will participate in monthly “Connect Days” on designated Fridays. These days will involve a workshop followed by a forum where they discuss applying what they’ve learned in the workshop to their real-life situations.

Cohort members are also paired with a volunteer “Super Mentor,” meeting four times outside of the monthly workshop days. These sessions focus on discussing leadership, personal, and professional development skills, providing participants with valuable insights from the mentor’s experience and expertise. Learn more about becoming a volunteer mentor or sign up to return as an existing mentor. 

Split between technical or market-facing tracks, cohort participants will be assigned to tailored groups for group coaching based on their primary goals of the program. This may include individuals who desire coaching on getting a raise, those looking to improve leadership skills, etc. Four group coaching sessions will take place outside of the designated Friday workshop days.  

The initiative ends with a WMNtech Leaders Graduation on 6.06.24, commemorating and celebrating the 2024 cohort and participants’ personal growth and accomplishments throughout the experience. 

An information session will be held on 1.17.24 from 9:00 – 10:00 AM CST for more detailed information about this virtual experience.

Learn more about the 2024 application and becoming a participant or mentor here. 

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.

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Chicago, Illinois – QualityBuilders.com “QB,” the leader of investor-friendly Chicago general contractors, is thrilled to announce the QB Instant Estimate.

New Technology for Real Estate Investors: The “QB Instant Estimate”
 Focused on working with real estate investors, QualityBuilders.com used its experience, past projects and tech know-how to address every real estate investor’s biggest pain point: estimating renovation costs.  While just a precursor for what is to come, the “QB Instant Estimate” is far ahead of its time in the antiquated residential construction industry.  Clients can now quickly determine an approximate idea of their project costs within seconds, enhancing the overall customer experience.

This cutting-edge tool provides a detailed overview of the two most common renovation types real estate investors complete, a cosmetic and full-gut renovation.  Once investors plug in the property type (# of units, if multi-family), square footage, and renovation type users receive a comprehensive breakdown of cost per unit, cost per square foot, and cost per trade.   Clients are also able to toggle between three different finish levels and are provided an estimate duration of the project.

While there are a number of estimators on the internet, the QB Instant Estimate draws from real world past projects and is designed with the end user in mind, real estate investors.  Founder Jonathan Klemm stated “‘Our QB Tech Team dedicated extensive time to fine-tune the UI (user interface) and UX (user experience), ensuring a user-friendly design. Although much more to come, the end result is a real world forecasting tool that provides a seamless and intuitive experience on both desktop and mobile.”  

To explore the Instant Estimate feature, we invite you to visit our new website at www.qualitybuilders.com.

Since its inception in 2021 by Jonathan Klemm, the company has experienced remarkable growth under the guidance of co-founders Bolanle Ogunmakin and Tom Zidron, evolving into a general contracting technology (GC-tech) firm that has transformed numerous single-family and multi-family projects across Chicago neighborhoods.

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Unleashing Industry Transformation in Cannabis & Web3: 1871 Opens Applications for Growth & Late-Stage Startups, Corporates, & Others Looking to Join Their Upcoming Labs.

In the dynamic landscape of technology and entrepreneurship, 1871 is at the forefront, fostering innovation and connecting key players across the business maturity curve for industry collaboration and transformation. We’re doing just that with our winter 2024 Innovation Labs in cannabis & web3!

Applications are now open to join the Cannabis Innovation Lab and the Web3 Innovation Lab, both launching in January 2024 and running separately throughout the initiatives. The Web3 Innovation Lab is set to redefine the future of Web3 native and decentralized technology, while the Cannabis Innovation Lab explores the rapidly growing and evolving world of cannabis tech. Applications close 12.29.23. 

Why Cannabis & Web3 

Cannabis and Web3, though seemingly different, share connections through emerging technologies and commitment to innovation. The intersection of the two rapidly evolving industries represent a frontier where technology, (Web3), meets a traditionally regulated industry, (cannabis), offering opportunities for increased efficiency, supply chain transparency,  decentralized smart contracts for compliance, and more transformative solutions for both spaces. 

Discover the 2024 Innovation Labs and how you can join as a cohort member or lab partner – more details below! 

“Cannabis and web3 are two industries ripe for disruption with a need for innovation at the foundational level. Our innovation labs seek to bring together top problem solvers in the space to tackle just that,” said Gabby Snedeker, Sr. Director of Innovation Labs at 1871. “While focusing on two vastly different industries, our winter 2024 labs seek to innovate around transparency, supply chain, and payments – in addition to industry-specific focus areas. While each program is unique, we are excited to run them in parallel and see how ‘outside in perspectives’ on similar problems can catalyze innovation.”

 

Cannabis Innovation Lab: nurturing growth in the cannatech space 

Cannabis is back! Building on the success of its inaugural year, 1871 partners once again with Grown In for the execution of the 2024 Cannabis Innovation Lab, with Grown Ins’ CEO, Brad Spirrison, as the Entrepreneur-in-Residence. 

This lab connects growth-stage startups with late-stage lab partners, corporate innovators, investors, and experts in the cannabis industry to explore the rapidly evolving field of cannatech. This year, the program includes innovation within CBD, THC, and Hemp.

“Focusing on cannabis technology and innovation isn’t just about embracing a burgeoning industry; it’s a potent catalyst for closing the wealth gap. By recognizing the potential of this sector, we not only unlock innovative solutions but also create opportunities for historically marginalized communities to thrive”, said Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871. “We’re thrilled to announce the 2024  Cannabis Innovation Lab in partnership with Grown In. Together, we’ll continue to drive progress, solve problems, and bridge  the chasm of economic disparity with the green shoots of equity and inclusivity.”

Why cannabis? As the legal landscape changes for Cannabis, its demand for innovative solutions to improve the efficiency, product quality, and regulatory compliance within the sector are at an all time high. 

The fusion of cannabis and tech continues to reach new heights, with AI, Web3, and blockchain innovations driving groundbreaking research, unlocking medical potentials, and refining the cannabis experience. From optimizing cultivation to ensuring product safety, cannatech is the game-changer we’ve been waiting for!

The lab breaks down into several focus areas: 

  • Finance
  • Supply Chain
  • Health & Wellness
  • Cannabis Beyond Consumption
  • All Things Consumers:

Learn more about the program curriculum, 2024 focus areas, and the significance of Cannabis in Chicago at our public information sessions on 12.05 & 12.19, or apply right away!

Web3 Innovation Lab: navigating the decentralized horizon 

Step into the future with Web3 – where users take control, data is yours to own, and the digital landscape is redefined! The Web3 Innovation Lab, a first-of-its-kind initiative at 1871, focuses on the evolution of Web3 native and decentralized technologies and exploring its endless possibilities. 

Partnering with us are the Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA) Advanced Technology Cluster, and the U.S. Blockchain Coalition, with Arry Yu, co-founder and executive director of U.S. Blockchain Coalition, as our Entrepreneur-in-Residence. 

“1871 is thrilled to introduce the Web3 Innovation Lab, a platform where we’ll harness the potential of Web3 to create new and exciting possibilities for industries worldwide,” said Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871. “This is our way of embracing the future of decentralized technologies and shaping a world that’s more open, secure, and inclusive.”

Why Web3? In a world where tech giants rule, Web3 emerges as the game-changer, tackling data privacy, censorship, and control head-on. The 2024 lab will focus on Web3’s integration in several areas, including enterprise, government, and everyday consumer use cases, with a focus on the critical infrastructure needed to scale innovation. Now is the moment to embrace Web3’s resistance to censorship, dedication to economic inclusion, and its promise of a globally accessible, decentralized internet.

Set against the backdrop of a rapidly transforming digital era, this lab is designed to connect growth-stage startups with late-stage partners, corporate innovators, and industry leaders to collaborate on cutting-edge solutions and gain insights into the latest trends, emerging technologies, and strategic use of Web3 in various industries, including cannabis. 

The lab breaks down into several focus areas: 

  • Building Out Digitally Native Middleware
  • Layer 0’s and 1’s
  • Enabling Enterprise
  • Enabling Government
  • Use Cases for Normies

Learn more about the program curriculum, 2024 focus areas, and the importance of Web3 at our public information sessions on 12.06 & 12.20, or apply right away!

About the 2024 winter labs

The labs will meet separately for 1 week per month, for 4 months of curated programming, alternating for in-person and virtual experiences from 1.22.24 – 4.19.24. Held throughout the innovation lab programming, our Lab Immersive Weeks are a fusion of collaboration, ideation, and real-world problem solving. Cohort members will participate in 4 weeks of immersed programming —with select events over the course of the programs open to public participation— for curated workshops, panel discussions, and more surrounding industry transformation. 

These immersive weeks are woven into the labs, creating a dynamic and engaging environment for learning and collaboration. The labs end with our capstone-like event, the Web3 Innovation Lab and Cannabis Innovation Lab summits, both happening on 4.18.23 for a full day of curated programming in Web3 and cannatech. Stay tuned for specific dates and locations for public, immersive-week programming!

Subscribe to stay up-to-date on upcoming Innovation Lab news and events. 

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The newest JLab premium earbuds integrate Knowles balanced armature drivers with dynamic drivers to deliver maximum sound clarity.

ITASCA, Ill., November 7, 2023 — Knowles Corporation (NYSE: KN), a leading global supplier of high-performance components and solutions, including capacitors and radio frequency (“RF”) filters, advanced medtech microphones and balanced armature speakers and audio solutions, announces consumer audio brand JLab has selected Knowles’ RAN balanced armature (BA) drivers to help produce premium sound for the new Epic Lab Edition true wireless earbuds.

JLab Epic Lab Edition combines Knowles RAN BAs, which produce crisp treble frequencies, with dynamic drivers to deliver rich bass for an unparalleled, well-balanced, crystal-clear sound across the full frequency curve. As consumer expectations for HD audio, long-wear comfort, and advanced personalization features hit an all-time high, these earbuds redefine true wireless sound.

The Epic Lab Edition is the first True Wireless Stereo (TWS) headphone to feature the Knowles Preferred Listening Response Curve. The research behind the Knowles Preferred Listening Response Curve reveals that listeners across age ranges and hearing abilities prefer expanded treble response beyond 10 kHz to deliver the best and most satisfying music listening experience. Knowles BAs enable JLab to achieve the higher frequencies necessary to produce the optimal audio performance to bring depth and life to music. Epic Lab Edition users will be able to customize their equalizer settings for the earbuds in the JLab App, choosing between four settings: JLab signature, Knowles Preferred Response Curve, Bass Boost, and a final option to customize their own settings.

Knowles BAs enable unprecedented sound performance for their size. Small enough to fit in the ear tip, the BAs enable comfortable fit without compromising sound quality, range or battery life. Delivering exceptional treble performance, with output up to 40 kHz for JAS Hi-Res Audio certification, the high sensitivity of Knowles BAs also facilitates improved hearing personalization and enhancement.

“Knowles’ approach to sound made the collaboration a no-brainer,” said Win Cramer, JLab CEO. “Pairing our technology with Knowles BAs creates an unrivaled sound experience for the listener.”

“JLab is a well-known brand with a great reputation among both casual listeners and audio connoisseurs,” stated Jon Kiachian, President of MedTech and Specialty Audio at Knowles Corporation. “Our collaboration with JLab on the Epic Lab Edition true wireless earbuds stands as a testimony to Knowles’ relentless pursuit of excellence in audio engineering. We are eager to foster this synergy and deliver the audio performance that customers crave.”

Coupled with Smart active noise cancellation, the Epic Lab Edition earbuds feature Hi-Res Audio via LDAC or AAC advanced codecs for the best sound experience JLab has ever created. Bluetooth LE Audio allows listeners to enjoy low latency and pristine audio quality. Each earbud has a 13-hour battery life with a total of more than 56 hours of playtime.

The JLab Epic Lab earbuds will be available at www.jlab.com and on Amazon. For more information on Knowles balanced armatures, visit www.knowles.com/premiumsound.

About Knowles

Knowles Corporation (NYSE: KN) is a market leader and global provider of advanced micro-acoustic microphones and speakers, audio solutions, and high-performance capacitors and RF products, serving the consumer electronics, communications, medtech, defense, electric vehicle, and industrial markets. Knowles uses its leading position in SiSonicTM MEMS (micro-electro-mechanical systems) microphones and strong capabilities in audio processing technologies to optimize audio systems and improve the user experience across consumer applications. Knowles is also a leader in hearing health acoustics, high-performance capacitors and RF solutions for diverse markets. Knowles’ focus on the customer, combined with unique technology, proprietary manufacturing techniques, and global operational expertise, enables it to deliver innovative solutions at scale across multiple applications. Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Itasca, Illinois, Knowles is a global organization with employees in over a dozen countries. For more information, visit knowles.com.

About JLab

JLab imagines and delivers the personal technology products that consumers want. With our line of personal audio gear and office accessories, we’re innovating absolutely everything to make way better personal tech. Based in San Diego, we’ve been offering the right sound, the right features, and the right value since 2005. For more information visit www.jlab.com.

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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

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1871’s Cannabis Innovation Lab Built with Grown In Brings Together Major Players Pioneering Cannabis Technologies to Drive the Future of the Industry

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHICAGO, November 1,  2023 — 1871, global innovation hub is excited to announce the return of its Cannabis Innovation Lab, beginning January 2024. Partnering with 1871 for the 2024 lab initiative is Grown In, an industry leader in insights, events and education surrounding cannabis. Grown In’s CEO, Brad Spirrison, will be the E.I.R. for this lab. Applications are now open until December 29, 2023. 

“Chicago’s continued leadership position in commercial cannabis is predicated on the interconnectedness between industry operators – which include multistate corporations and social equity startups alike – and the city’s robust business, research and innovation communities,” said Brad Spirrison, CEO of Grown In. “Cannabis Innovation Lab at 1871 is a global pioneer in harvesting these connections, which will be essential as the industry normalizes in 2024 and beyond.”

“Focusing on cannabis technology and innovation isn’t just about embracing a burgeoning industry; it’s a potent catalyst for closing the wealth gap. By recognizing the potential of this sector, we not only unlock innovative solutions but also create opportunities for historically marginalized communities to thrive,” said Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871. “We’re thrilled to announce the 2024 Cannabis Innovation Lab in partnership with Grown In. Together, we’ll continue to drive progress, solve problems, and  bridge the chasm of economic disparity with the green shoots of equity and inclusivity.”

The Cannabis Innovation Lab will operate from 1.22.24 to 4.19.24, focusing on the rapidly growing and evolving field of Cannabis tech, otherwise known as “cannatech”. As the legal landscape changes for Cannabis, its demand for innovative solutions to improve the efficiency, product quality, and regulatory compliance within the sector are at an all time high. This year, Hemp will also be included alongside CBD and THC. More details below. 

 

Cannabis Innovation Lab 2024 Highlights

The Lab is open to the following innovators: 

  • Growth-stage startups with a cannabis-focused technology or product 
  • Late-stage startup partners interested in making their name in cannabis through partnerships or have a core product focused on cannatech 
  • Corporations sitting at the forefront of cannabis innovation or seeking to enhance their cannatech solutions 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 12.05.23 and on 12.19.23, to provide attendees with information surrounding the curriculum, cohort eligibility, and the benefits of joining as a cohort member or partner. 

To kick off applications, get the chance to connect with the Chicago cannabis tech community and gain industry insights at the Cannabis Innovation Lab Community Kick-Off event on 11.16.23. 1871 and Grown In will be hosting panel discussions, curated conversations, and happy-hour networking opportunities surrounding cannabis capital in Chicago and the future of cannatech. 

 

2024 Lab focus areas 

This Lab focuses on several “focus areas” for cohort members to explore, identify, and collaborate to solve issues within cannatech, including Web3 and AI integration. 

High-level focus areas include: 

  • Finance: overcoming hurdles in payments, banking, and fundraising. 
  • Supply Chain: seed-to-sale optimization, tracking, and regulatory compliance.
  • Health & Wellness: applying cannabis products to a wide spectrum of health and wellness needs, from improving sleep quality, to applications in cancer treatment and beyond. 
  • Cannabis Beyond Consumption: alternative cannabis, including hemp-based textiles, construction materials, and sustainable biofuels.
  • All Things Consumers: helping cannabis operators find, acquire, retrain, and safely serve cannabis consumers.

 

The lab experience broken down

This Lab is designed to connect startups, late-stage startup 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 whole week of programming in January, February, March, and April 2024. 

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

 

Why Cannabis 

As the global landscape for cannabis continues to evolve, the significance of cannatech and its pivotal role in the industry’s growth and maturation are more pronounced than ever. From enhancing the efficiency of cultivation and distribution to improving the quality and safety of products, cannatech not only boosts productivity but also ensures regulatory compliance and responsible consumption.

The majority of the largest Cannabis players in the country are based in Chicago, including Cresco Labs, Green Thumb, PharmaCann, Verano, Fyllo, and Curaleaf, making Chicago and the 2024 election year, the place to be for cannabis tech. As cannabis gains acceptance worldwide, innovative tech— utilizing the advancements in AI, Web3, and blockchain— has the potential to continue driving groundbreaking research and development, unlocking new medical applications and refining the overall cannabis experience. 

1871 and Grown In are looking forward to a groundbreaking year of collaboration and innovation at the 2024 Cannabis Innovation Lab. We invite the press and the public to join us in exploring the future of the cannabis 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 Grown In 

Grown In is the go-to trusted source for cannabis industry news and compliance training. Their national team of journalists, subject experts, and learning designers transform key market insights into actionable knowledge and applicable skills to ensure employees are not only informed with cutting-edge articles and reports but also equipped to confidently navigate nuanced legal requirements and diverse workplace circumstances through credentialed online courses. They also offer media sponsorship opportunities and interactive product showcases to increase market awareness and product understanding.

For media inquiries, please contact:

J Blaszczykiewicz, Sr. Director of Marketing at 1871

j@1871.com 

press@1871.com 

Brad Spirrison, CEO of Grown In 

brad@grownin.com

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Digital4Startups Named to Inc.’s Second Annual Power Partner Awards

Roundup highlights B2B partners that support startups across all business functions and empower growth

CHICAGO, IL. October 24, 2023 – Inc. Business Media today announced the second annual Power Partner Awards, honoring B2B organizations across the globe that have proven track records supporting entrepreneurs and helping startups grow. The list recognizes 389 firms in marketing and advertising, health and wellness, financial services, legal, logistics, and productivity, as well as other areas of business.

All 389 companies received top marks from clients for being instrumental in helping leadership navigate the dynamic world of startups. These B2B partners support entrepreneurs across various facets of the business, including hiring, compliance, infrastructure development, cloud migration, fundraising, etc., allowing founders to focus on their core missions.

“Trusted B2B partners provide guidance and expertise that founders rely on at various steps of their organization’s journey. Partners that possess a demonstrated ability to deliver quality support are at the core of entrepreneurship and help bring big ideas to life,” says Scott Omelianuk, editor-in-chief of Inc. Business Media.

“We are honored to be recognized as a 2023 Inc. Power Partner,” said Reva Minkoff, President and Founder of Digital4Startups. “We have always prided ourselves on going above and beyond for our clients to help them achieve their business goals and are grateful to have been able to assist so many amazing companies with their digital marketing needs over the last 12 years.”

Digital4Startups Inc. is a full-service digital marketing agency and consultancy that specializes in marketing strategy, search engine marketing, paid social advertising, search engine optimization, and analytics. By focusing on efficiency, Digital4Startups helps their clients maximize the results of their marketing budgets. Their multiple specialties, breadth and depth of experience, and willingness to experiment with new channels have allowed them to be a one-stop shop for companies and allows Digital4Startups to grow with their clients over time.

There are over 75,000 startups and over 33 million small businesses in the United States. Digital4Startups was founded to serve these companies, with flexible, custom programs designed to meet the needs of each client. Since their launch in 2012, Digital4Startups has worked with several hundred of these companies. Some notable examples of their work include helping a company grow from five markets to seventeen markets, successfully catapulting an e-commerce company, within 18 months, to generate almost $600,000 in annual revenue solely through Google ads alone, all while operating within a tight budget and reducing the cost per acquisition of a B2B financial service provider over 50% in only five months.

To view the complete list, go to: https://www.inc.com/power-partner-awards/2023. The November 2023 Issue of Inc. magazine is available online now at https://www.inc.com/magazine and will be on newsstands beginning October 31, 2023.

About Inc. Business Media

The world’s most trusted business-media brand, Inc. offers entrepreneurs the knowledge, tools, connections, and community they need to build great companies. Its award-winning multiplatform content reaches more than 50 million people each month across a variety of channels including websites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, and print. Its prestigious Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to recognize the fastest- growing privately held businesses in the United States. The global recognition that comes with inclusion in the 5000 gives the founders of the best businesses an opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and the credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. The associated Inc. 5000 Conference is part of a highly acclaimed portfolio of bespoke events produced by Inc. For more information, visit www.inc.com.

About Digital4Startups

Founded in 2012, Digital4Startups is a digital marketing consulting firm specializing in marketing strategy, search engine marketing, analytics, and SEO. Digital4Startups helps companies use their marketing budgets more efficiently while providing education to ensure they’re doing digital marketing the right way. Based out of Chicago, Illinois, Digital4Startups has worked with over 350 companies of all shapes and sizes since their inception, from Fortune 500 companies to sole proprietors. Some of the industries represented by current and past clients include B2B, eCommerce, Beauty, CPG, Finance, and Home Services. Digital4Startups is a Google Ads Premier Partner, Meta Business Partner, Microsoft Advertising Partner, and MailChimp Partner, amongst others. For more information, visit www.digital4startups.com.

 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, late 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.

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1871 Partners with Illinois Innovation Network to Drive Inclusive Economic Growth and Foster Innovation in Illinois

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

CHICAGO, October 26, 2023 —1871, a global innovation hub, is announcing a new partnership with the University of Illinois System-led Illinois Innovation Network (IIN), the state’s network of public universities and hubs created to foster  inclusive economic development. Together, 1871 and IIN will work to compound growth and innovation and stimulate the economy throughout Illinois.

1871, a 501(c)(3) based in Chicago and serving the world, supports ~about 500 early-stage,~and 250 growth and late-stage companies and dozens of corporates. Companies that started at 1871 over its 12-year history have created close to 15,000 jobs in Chicagoland, representing more than $1 billion in annual salaries. Its early- stage founder community is ever closer to mirroring the demographics of Chicago with 23% Black, 10% Latin, and 17% other non-white members. 

1871 serves as the “and” to many non-profits and universities, where their membership and students, administrators, and faculty members get access virtually and in person to all that 1871 delivers — from in-depth curriculum, to mentorship, to recruiting and training, and innovation labs. 1871 complements the expertise and efforts of the IIN overall and each of the represented institutions. 

As a result of this collaboration, 1871 is welcoming the IIN hubs to its community, which already includes seven other Illinois-based universities. Through this partnership, IIN members will have full access to 1871’s diverse community, products, and resources, both virtually and in person. More details on the specifics below. 

“The Illinois Innovation Network and 1871 provide unique opportunities for more Illinoisans to shape our future through innovation and entrepreneurship,” Gov. JB Pritzker said. “Thanks to this collaboration, the state’s innovation hubs, world class universities and national laboratories will be further strengthened. We stand uniquely equipped to solve 21st century problems with inventive solutions—all while furthering our state’s status as a national leader for research and innovation.”

“The Illinois Innovation Network is a collaboration that drives innovation in urban, peri-urban, and rural communities across the state,” added  Jay Walsh, University of Illinois System vice president for economic development and innovation. “ IIN is excited to team with 1871, which has been an innovation ecosystem leader for years, to connect entrepreneurs from all corners of Illinois with 1871’s resources and opportunities and bring the challenges and novel approaches found statewide to 1871.” 

Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871, said “We believe there is no more important lever than entrepreneurship in driving economic development and job creation. By locking arms and combining forces with the IIN, we have the opportunity to advance the state, region, and country forward together.”  

 

Partnership details

These 15 IIN hubs will now have access to 1871’s offerings: 

Chicago State University 

Discovery Partners Institute 

Distillery Labs

Eastern Illinois University

Governors State University

Illinois State University

Northeastern Illinois University

Northern Illinois University

Southern Illinois University Carbondale

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

University of Illinois Chicago

University of Illinois Chicago College of Medicine Rockford

University of Illinois Springfield

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 

Western Illinois University

This partnership enables students, faculty, and alumni  in the IIN to:  

  • Participate in early-stage startup programming, PYROS, a “startup roadmap” series of workshops and seminars tailored to founders
  • Engage in talent-focused events, such as the Intern and Job Fairs and Tech Challenge
  • Join 1871 year-long innovation programs, like Innovation Labs in AI, cannabis, foodtech, and supply chain
  • Attend 1871’s community events
  • Use a physical space to work and convene when in Chicago 

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 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 IIN

The Illinois Innovation Network (IIN) drives inclusive and integrated research, innovation and economic development across Illinois. It is a system of university-community-industry-based hubs throughout the state that work together to drive innovation along with the economic and workforce development. 

About the U of I System

The University of Illinois System is a world leader in research and discovery, and the largest educational institution in the state with more than 94,700 students, about 27,000 full-time equivalent faculty and staff, and universities in Urbana-Champaign, Chicago and Springfield. The U of I System awards more than 24,000 undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees annually.

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Student Coders Unite! 1871’s 14th Annual Competition Hosts its Final Round at Chicago HQ for a Friendly Coding Competition & Networking Event.

1871 hosted its 14th Annual Tech Challenge coding competition at their Chicago office on 10.20.23.

125 university students and recent graduates from across the nation competed in our Qualifying Round in CoderPad, which assessed their coding skills, accuracy, and problem-solving speed. 

These students’ coding skills were impressive, and the top 50 codes advanced to our final coding round at 1871. Several students from the Midwest joined us in person, while coders from across the nation participated virtually, all competing for the opportunity to win cash rewards and a range of other prizes, including subscriptions to Sound Advice.

Congratulations to our 2023 winners: 

In-person 

  • Artem L. from the University of Illinois at Chicago 
  • Lawrence T. from the University of Chicago
  • Henry B. from the University of Chicago  
  • Jack S. from Northwestern University 
  • Felix H. from Northwestern University

Virtual 

  • Adam Z. from Georgia Institute of Technology
  • Claire Z. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  • Alexander Y. from New York University 
  • Zhuolin Y. from  the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign 
  • Calvin T. From New York York University 

What do students think about the competition? Hear directly from 2023 Tech Challenge participants. 

Relive the best moments from the 2023 Tech Challenge in our recap playlist! 

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 & grads the opportunity to showcase their coding skills and connect them with 1871’s pool of member tech companies looking for talent. In-person participants also had opportunities to network with other talented coders, tour 1871’s HQ, and gain valuable insights into the tech industry with collaborative activities from Shedd Capital. 

Importance of the Tech Challenge

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!

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1871 hosted its LTNtech Pitch Competition Finals on 10.11.23, where the top 5 Latin early stage startup founders were given the opportunity to pitch to secure resources for their business. Finalists included: We Hear You, Sensytec, Route, KIKrr, & The Jefas. 

Emceed by Rosa Escareño, General Superintendent & CEO of Chicago Park District, finalists competed for cash prizes, equity funding, and other opportunities to advance their startup to the next level.

Relive the event’s best moments in our recap playlist, including interviews from panelists, pitch finalists, and more. 

2023 LTNtech Pitch Competition results & their winnings

  • We Hear You, taking home $8k dollars & $10k in Aloa development credits 
  • Sensytec, taking home $5k dollars & $2.5k in Aloa development credits 
  • Route, taking home $4k dollars & $2.5k in Aloa development credits 
  • KIKrr, taking home $4k dollars & $2.5k in Aloa development credits 
  • The Jefas, taking home $4k dollars & $2.5k in Aloa development credits 

Alongside winning cash & equity prizes and development credits, the finalists received six months of free 1871 membership to access valuable resources, products, and programming to further accelerate their entrepreneurial journey. 

Importance of funding for Latin founders 

According to Inc., Latin founders are the fastest growing demographic of entrepreneurs in America, but they’re the least likely to receive funding and revenue to scale their businesses. 1871 and Chicago startup innovators want to help change that. 

Before the pitches, 1871 had an incredible panel discussion, Growth & Gaps – Future of Latin Startups in Chicago, with Inicio Ventures and Latin industry leaders and founders, including Desiree Vargas Wrigley, CIO & Executive Director of P33, Tricia Martinez-Saab, Managing Director of TechStars Chicago, and Osvaldo Montelongo, CEO of ConnectCareHero.

The panel, moderated by Kaili Emmrich, Head of North America, Google for Startups, discussed Chicago’s current investment and funding ecosystem and what local venture firms are doing to help close the wealth gap for Latin founders and their startups.

“Chicago has a great wealth and history of being innovative, and the mixture of Latinx being in that, with 30% Latinos in Chicago, it should be one of the biggest hubs for Latinx founders in our ecosystem,” said Jorge Calderon, Managing Director at Inicio Ventures. “We should take this moment and realize we have a critical mass to support and help each other, and these types of events are celebrations of us.”  

The panelists shared the biggest challenges faced by Chicago founders, including the need to seek angel investor funding in other cities, missed local investment opportunities, and underutilization of the city’s remarkable resources. The solution? Cultivating camaraderie in local communities and actively investing & building with local entrepreneurs and investors. 

“There’s an entire ecosystem of people out there that are going to be new into the startup ecosystem, and so it’s our priority to make sure that we have a more inclusive environment that provides those resources to those individuals,” said Tricia Martinez-Saab. “It’s also really important for our future that we see the top scientists, technologists and founders are people that look like us – we need to highlight and show more representation in all fields.” 

“Before you make a decision that involves any kind of spending, ask yourself, ‘Is there a Chicago company solving this problem?’ And if you’re a Chicago company that’s building, we should be marketing to each other first and trying to make sure that the dollars are moving around here to support each other,” said Desiree Vargas Wrigley. “We have so many incredible assets in the city, including the founders and creative energy of our community.”

Thank you to our 2023 judges: 

 This competition was made possible by our investment partners Inicio Ventures, OCA Ventures, and Wintrust Ventures, and our sponsors Aloa and Microsoft.

About LTNtech 

LTNtech is 1871’s umbrella of programming centered around inspiring, equipping, and supporting Latin founders and leaders through tailored programming and mentorship initiatives, including LTNtech Founders and Tech Leaders. 

Celebrate Dia de los Muertos at our upcoming Happy Hour on 11.01, located at 1871. Participate in our first-ever community Day of the Dead altar, paint sugar skull cookies, and learn about the significance of the holiday, its symbolism, and more, hosted by our newest community resource group, LTNtech Voices. 

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Innovators from Foodtech & Supply Chain Join Forces for Sustainability Discussions & Industry Disruption at 1871’s First-Ever Joint Innovation Summits

1871’s Fall 2023 Innovation Summits took place on 10.04.23, focusing on  Foodtech & Supply Chain. These summits are a capstone event for 1871’s Foodtech Innovation Lab & Supply Chain Innovation Lab that includes the public, as well as curated experts. 

With over 650+ registrants, 30+ VCs, and 30+ growth and late stage startups, this event took place at 1871 office in Chicago’s historic Merchandise Mart! View our full recap playlists, including tailored food tech & supply chain interviews from keynotes, partners, lab members, and more.

Our summit anchor partners Accenture (supply chain) and Barrel Ventures (foodtech)supported the day’s wealth of content and discussions that concentrated on solving industry problems with technology and inspiring innovations. 

Running simultaneously, our industry tracks offered participants the chance to “choose their own adventure” for the day, with overlapping fireside and keynotes that united all go-ers under the topics: sustainability & climate change. 

Here’s what went down for both Supply Chain & Foodtech summits: 

  • Startup pitch competitions

  • Tech playgrounds

  • Expert panels 

  • 4-5 breakout rooms

  • Networking

Read on for the best quotes, content, and insights from the day.

Summit Memories: expert content 

Chicago is THE place for supply chain innovation 

According to Michael Lyman, North America Strategy & Consulting Leader at Accenture and member of 1871’s Board of Directors, supply chain has ‘become a tier-one board-level issue’. In terms of disruption, redesigns of a business’ model and footprint,and changes in technology, ‘60% of carbon emission is directly tied back to the supply chain’. 

“It’s the center of the discussion, the debate, and the opportunity that we [Chicagoans] have, and food, where better than Chicago, right?” said Lyman. “We’re bringing the best innovators, investors, corporates, ecosystem partners and advisors together around a common agenda to innovate, and that’s the heart of what we’re trying to do here today.” 

Foodtech innovation spans from the lab to the plate 

From fungi grown in labs to esteemed restaurants across the nation, food innovation was the topic for our morning fireside chat, FoodTech Innovations from Lab to Plate. 

1871’s CEO Betsy Ziegler sat down with Stephanie Izard, executive chef and CEO of This Little Goat and Karuna Rawal, Chief Revenue & Marketing Officer at Nature’s Fynd. Together, they delved into the evolving landscape of the culinary world and the innovative approaches being taken to craft sustainable, delicious food that prioritizes consumer health and well-being, while addressing critical sustainability and climate change issues. 

With over 25 years of experience innovating within the restaurant world, Izard shared her journey of opening several restaurants to extending her brand to consumer packaged goods (CPGs). Her advice for founders? Keep innovating, surround yourself with creative thinkers, and understand the need for change within industries. 

“Enjoying great flavors is important, but it’s also important to look into these [alternative] options as supply chain issues continue and look at the growth of people in the world…  there’s not going to be enough food going around,” said Izard. “Turning something that we take for granted and changing it to something that we can actually sustain with is crucial.” 

On a mission to revolutionize the world of protein and dairy alternatives, Rawal revealed Nature’s Fynds’ accidental discovery of a unique fungus sourced from Yellowstone National Park. Their fungi, named ‘Fy’, has transformed their labs to utilize the untapped resource as a way to give consumers a tasty, and nutrient-packed substitution.

“How do we feed 10 billion people on this planet in the face of climate change? It’s overwhelming, we’re running out of land and water and climate change is a big factor,” said Kawal. “ Food is something so culturally driven, personal, and emotional. There’s a lot of reasons people need alternative choices, and it’s hard to change behavior if food isn’t delicious. We have to change how we eat…we’ve done it throughout history and we’re at another point where we need to do just that.”

Industry experts in food tech and supply chain weigh in on the most important topics in the respective industries

Guest food tech and supply chain experts added their industry insights and expertise to our riveting panel discussions. They delved into current industry trends and emphasized the pivotal role of innovation within the two industries. 

Our food tech panelists discussed Future of Ingredients: Critical Innovations for Feeding 10 Billion People by 2050, moderated by Shayna Harris, Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Supply Change, featuring  Alexander Plotkin, Director of Culinary Innovation at Nature’s Fynd , Julia Stamberger, CEO & Co-Founder of Planting Hope, Judith Moca, Head of the Technology Discovery & Development at Kraft, Nate Cooper, Managing Partner at Barrel Ventures, and Greg Hocking, Vice President of Global R&D new innovation territories at Mars Wrigley. 

Our supply chain panelists discussed Digital Revolution in Supply Chains: Currency Trends and Future Game- Changers, moderated by Patty Riedl, Managing Director- North America Supply Chain & Operations Lead for Accenture, featuring Adam Wisniewski, CEO of EX3 Labs, Antonio Orozco, CTO of Deacero, Reid Jackson, Vice President, Innovation & Partnerships of GS1, and Ryan Murphy, Principal Program Manager of Microsoft, Michael Sachaj, Senior Principal of HPA. 

For a deeper dive into the dynamic world of food tech and supply chain, guest session leaders hosted a series of captivating breakouts, including:

  • From Ideas to Impact: Fostering an Innovation Culture to Create Value 
  • Data-Driven Supply Chains: Unleashing the Power of AI 
  • Smart Products, Smarter Supply Chains: The IoT Revolution 
  • Rethinking Supply Chains: Adapting to a Changing World 
  • How  Emerging Technologies are Creating More Efficient and Resilient Supply Chains 
  • Saving the Planet – One Wrapper at A Time 
  • Nourishing Change: FoodTech for A Sustainable Future 
  • Flavors of Innovation: A FoodTech Investor Panel 

Data is key for supply chain innovation

To close out the day, Betsy Ziegler was joined by Gail Crockett, Operations & Supply Chain Officer at Cleveland Avenue for our afternoon fireside chat, Big Mac to Big Impact: Supply Chain Leadership. 

Having successfully directed and overseen supply chain operations for global giants like McDonalds, where she played a pivotal role in the inception of the McCafe, Crockett has transitioned to a new chapter with a focus on startups. She shares her wealth of expertise with pre-IPO businesses, assisting them in accelerating their revenue and monetizing more quickly at Cleveland Avenue. 

Crockett has extensive experience in managing supply, product, and transportation optimization alongside business-driving programs in the food and beverage service and packaging and manufacturing industries. Her advice for innovation? It’s not necessary to be the first to invent something, but it’s fair game to borrow and make it better – just be transparent with your customers!

“We all know data is important. Data management, collection, and knowing what to do with that data is critical. Thinking about supply chain after being in business for a year or two – you have to play catch up. But if you build [traceability] systems from the beginning, it can be much smoother,” said Crockett. “The provenance and understanding of where something comes from and how it moves across the supply chain is important and leads to transparency. That’s where the critical trends are.”  

Summit memories: startup pitch competition & tech playground

The top 16 founders from our 2023 Supply Chain Innovation Lab cohort & Foodtech Innovation Lab cohort pitched their startups to showcase how they’re revolutionizing the supply chain and food tech realm and driving innovation with their solutions. 

Congratulations to our pitch winners PlantSwitch, pitched by CEO & Founder Dillon Baxter and The Rubic Technologies, pitched by CGO Luke Buckberrough. 

Audience members voted live for their favorite pitches, which were awarded to AWSM Sauce,  pitched by Co-Founder Carl Starkey and ConnectSX, pitched by CEO & Founder Chris Riedel. 

2023 Foodtech pitch finalists 

Hoppy Planet Foods 

Spira Foods

Cultivation Connect 

DeNovo Foodlabs 

GrowinCo. 

Superfrau 

 

2023 Supply Chain pitch finalists 

PartRunner 

Realizse

Rivercity Innovations 

Pollen Returns 

SIRL

JusticeBid 

Attendees were treated to the opportunity to explore revolutionary products and solutions at our startup alley & tech playground. Pioneering lab cohort members were stationed at booths offering live product demonstrations, and were able to engage in conversations with potential investors and collaborators. 

The day ended with a celebration of the winning pitches, closing remarks from 1871 and a happy-hour after networking event.

Thank you to our Innovation Lab partners in foodtech and supply chain who made our 2023 Fall Innovation Summit amazing: Accenture, Barrel Ventures, Microsoft, Deacero, World Business Chicago, Rheaply, Arkestro, Super Dispatch, Canadian Consulate, Flock Freight, Farmers Fridge, Human Co and Planting Hope. 

We’ll see you next year for our 2024 Foodtech Innovation Summit & Supply Chain Innovation Summit! 

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Our Fall 2023 Tech Leaders cohort kicked off in September 2023, and we are honored to announce the 10 professionals who have been accepted into the program! 

This season, the 4-month leadership development and mentoring initiative aims to cultivate the next generation of Black and Latin individuals in technical-facing roles. The leadership development experience equips cohort members with programming to further develop their personal and professional skills. 

This is 1871’s first-ever Tech Leaders cohort with social identity tracks for Black and Latin tech individuals.

 

Latin Technical Track 

Annelise Hernandez, Senior Software Engineer at dScout 

Omar Torres, Lead Database Administrator at CCC Intelligent Solutions 

Susan Huerta, Supply Chain Manager at Connie’s Pizza Inc.

Victor Mata, Network Operation Lead at CCC Intelligent Solutions 

 

Black Technical Track 

Chauncey Robinson, Manager of Strategic Initiatives – North America at Oracle 

Jackie Payne, Senior Product Operations Manager at CCC Intelligent Solutions 

Nkem Mogbo, Associate Software Engineer at CCC Intelligent Solutions 

Shakur Smith, Software Engineer at Journera 

Shayla Alderman, Information Technology Operations Analyst at Refresh Mental Health 

Thomas Brown, Consultant at Deloitte 

 

About the cohort

How is the program run? 1871 & Ethos, a culture consulting meets diversity, equity, and inclusion firm, have partnered for the curriculum, experience, and execution of the program.

Participants in this cohort are mid-career, Black and Latin professionals with 3-10 years of experience working in a technical-facing role. This initiative is open to all gender identities. 

The cohort is 100% virtual, meeting one Friday per month from 9.15.23 – 12.14.23 for curated peer-driven forums, group coaching sessions, leadership development workshops, and more. 

Each cohort member is paired with a volunteer “Super Mentor”, meeting several times outside the allotted Friday sessions for leadership, personal, and professional development insight. 

Thank you to our mentors who have volunteered to support this program and their mentees with their dedicated time, experience, and expertise.  

While Tech Leaders is one cohort, its peer-driven forums and group coaching sessions are split into two groups— the Black Technical Track and the Latin Technical Track, to equip each group with the necessary tools and resources to amplify their development and meet their primary takeaways of the program. 

Interested in learning more about our Tech Leaders programming? Subscribe.

 

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1871 Announces its 2023 LTNtech Pitch Competition Finalists!

Our LTNtech Pitch Competition is back for its second year to recognize extraordinary Latin early-stage founders and support them with funding, resources, and equity opportunities from notable VC firms to elevate their startups. 

The 3-round competition kicked off with a whopping 40 round-1 pitches, an impressive display of talent! After evaluations, the 20 semi-finalists were then narrowed down to our top 5 finalists, who will be taking center stage at our finale event on 10.11.23. 

The finalists will have the opportunity to win a combination of cash prizes and equity funding, amounting to a minimum of $25,000. They’ll also win coveted Aloa credits, totalling $20,000 and 6-month free membership to 1871. While everyone’s a winner, each finalist will be taking home a blend of cash prizes, funding and credits, which will be distributed at the final event. 

Top 5 Finalists 

KIKrr, pitched by CEO Mariana Padilla 

KIKrr is an automated demo marketplace and community for cybersecurity. Despite cybersecurity being critical for both individuals and businesses alike, it’s notoriously hard to both buy and sell — they’re solving this problem.

Route, pitched by CEO & Co-Founder Ricardo Regalado

Route is an ecosystem of solutions that have been developed to help cleaning business owners build, grow ,and scale their businesses. They  have a suite of tools that can be leveraged at different stages of a SMB business. Route gives the SMB a network of not only solutions, but industry partners and peers to ultimately WIN at business!

Sensytec, pitched by CEO & Co-Founder Ody De La Paz 

Sensytec’s patented IoT platform provides real-time performance data of infrastructure through its entire lifecycle (including concrete, new materials & soil). Their customers introduce IoT sensors into the building material and wirelessly receive relevant performance parameters via software.

The Jefas, pitched by CEO & Founder Aurora Diaz 

The Jefas is the first e-commerce platform and box for Latina founded beauty brands. Latino consumers spend $8 billion on beauty products annually, they are a first-mover beauty box and e-commerce that focuses on Latina founded brands. There’s 28 Million Latinas in the U.S. and it’s the fastest growing consumer group. 34% growth in beauty products over the next 5 years for Latinas vs 17% for non-Latinas.

We Hear You, pitched by CEO & Founder Pierre Paul

We Hear You is a pioneering company dedicated to developing inclusive technology that caters to a diverse range of individuals, with a specific focus on those with disabilities or exceptionalities. Their inaugural innovation introduces a cutting-edge two-way sign language translation software, adept at converting ASL into speech through the latest AI breakthroughs, and seamlessly transforming speech into ASL.

Our 2023 LTNtech Pitch Competition is made possible by our sponsor Aloa, and our VC and investment partners, OCA Ventures, Wintrust Ventures, and Inicio Ventures. 

 

About LTNtech Pitch Competition 

LTNtech Pitch Competition is part of our larger Latin tech founder initiative, designed to support & amplify Latin early-stage founders through tailored programming, mentorship, and community networking events. 1871 is passionate about working towards closing the investment gap in the tech community. 

This year, we invite the public to attend our panel discussion, Growth & Gaps- Future of Latin Startups in Chicago. Before the pitch competition, we’ll be sitting down with Inicio Ventures and industry leaders to gain insights on the current state of the ecosystem, and what industry leaders are currently doing to support Latin founders. 

Moderated by Kaili Emmrich, Head of North America, Google for Startups, featuring Desiree Vargas Wrigley, CIO & Executive Director of P33, Tricia Martinez-Saab, Managing Director of TechStars Chicago, and Osvaldo Montelongo, Founder of ConnectCareHero. 

The panel discussion will be held in-person at 1871 from 2:15 – 3:45 PM CST, followed by our pitching final event from 4:00 – 7:00 PM CST. Virtual options will be available for both events.

Join the discussion and help us cheer on the finalists by RSVPing today.

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CHICAGO, September 21, 2023 — 1871 honored eight award winners at the 16th Annual Momentum Awards on September 21, 2023. 

1871 celebrated eight award winners at The 16th Annual Momentum Awards. The ceremony celebrated the past year in innovation across Chicago and honored the brightest leaders and companies in tech today. Relive the best moments of the night in our 2023 Momentum playlist. 

In the spirit of Momentum, the Chicago tech community continues to be a powerhouse. Among the many milestones recognized, 1871 CEO Betsy Ziegler reinforced the role of 1871’s Innovation Labs in bringing the tech community together to accelerate progress within and across industries and technologies. 

The winner of the Corporate Champion Award — CDW— was publicly announced in advance, but was officially recognized during the program. The 7 awards were presented live at the event: Chicagoness, Outstanding Tech CEO, Industry Disrupter, Social Impact, Rising Star, Momentum, and CityLIGHTS. 

“This year’s winners and finalists are a mix of visionary founders, leaders, and companies with a relentless drive and commitment to innovation,” said Larry Eppley, Chairman of 1871 and Founding Managing Partner of Sheppard Mullin’s Chicago office. “The 16th Annual Momentum Awards pay tribute to their achievements and, just as importantly, give us a glimpse into their promising futures. We could not be more excited to have them as part of our thriving community and support their excellence in tech.”

“The 16th Annual Momentum Awards perfectly showcased how our expansive and engaged community of innovators are playing a crucial role in spurring Chicago’s economy, and  having an impact on the global stage,” said Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871. “Our 30 finalists and 8 award winners tonight have been recognized for their progress and  impact and 1871 is thrilled to honor them. We are proud of their successes and are their forever cheering squad.”

Corporate Champion Award winner: CDW

The Corporate Champion Award was presented to CDW for their commitment to empowering technological transformation across industries and providing companies with a wide variety of technology solutions and services to enhance efficiency and productivity.

CDW demonstrates their commitment to the community through a collaboration with local schools and organizations, like 1871, to promote STEM and entrepreneurship education, equipping the next generation with essential skills.  

A fortune 200 company led by Christine Leahy, one of only 19 female CEOs leading the Fortune 200.

The 2022 Corporate Champion award went to Navistar.

Chicagoness Award winner: Kevin Willer

The Chicagoness Award was presented to Kevin Willer for his unwavering commitment to making Chicago a more inclusive city and being an advocate for equitable opportunities in tech and entrepreneurship. 

Kevin’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through his numerous ventures in the Chicago tech and startup scene. As the first Chicago-based employee of Google, to the first CEO of 1871, and opening Chicago Ventures, to the Chair of the Board for mHUB, he has played a pivotal role in establishing the city as a tech hub and fostering collaboration within our community.

His philanthropic efforts are also a testament to his deep-rooted Chicagoness. Kevin’s involvement in various community initiatives, local universities, and a long list of nonprofits demonstrates his commitment to creating a brighter future for Chicagoans.

The 2022 Chicagoness award winner was James (Jim) Reynolds Jr., Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Loop Capital. 

Outstanding Tech CEO Award winner:
Maria Christopoulos Katris of Built In

The Outstanding Tech CEO Award was presented to Maria Christopoulos Katris, CEO of Built In. 

Maria’s strong leadership skills and innovative thinking have not only led to the company’s impressive growth but also positioned Built In as a trusted platform for connecting professionals in the tech community. Her dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive work culture has been instrumental in attracting top talent and nurturing a collaborative environment. 

Under her guidance, Built In continues to thrive as a trailblazer in the tech world, empowering individuals & companies alike to unlock their full potential.

The 2022 Outstanding Tech CEO was Kelly Manthey, Global CEO of  Kin + Carta. 

Industry Disrupter Award winner: Rivet

The Industry Disrupter award was presented to Rivet.

Rivet, founded by an all-MIT team, uses machine learning to find and understand their high-potential fans and provides creators with actions and automation to unlock more revenue.

In a historically overlooked and service-oriented industry, Rivet’s approach to using AI to streamline business processes for artists & creators is fundamentally disruptive. Rivet’s recommendation engine and associated fan engagement score open the door to significant intelligence & workflow automation. 

The 2022 Industry Disrupter award went to Rheaply.

Social Impact Award winner: WeSolv

The Social Impact award was presented to WeSolv. 

WeSolv is an AI and performance data-driven platform that automates sourcing more diverse candidates & objectively assessing skills and competencies with real mini-projects. WeSolv democratizes access to real experience and uses predictive data to reduce hiring bias. 

WeSolv’s  purpose, beyond profit, is to create a world where candidates of all backgrounds can access meaningful careers while infusing companies with diverse, high-performing talent to propel their businesses forward.

The 2022 Social Impact Award was presented to Zing Health.

Rising Star Award winner: ReloShare

The Rising Star award was presented to ReloShare. 

ReloShare, Inc. is an instant booking technology company that powers custom hotel and corporate housing reservation systems.

 In June 2021, ReloShare launched Safe Stays, a one-of-a-kind custom hotel booking site that provides social service agencies like domestic violence shelters & human trafficking response agencies the ability to book rooms at national hotel partners with complete anonymity via alias check-ins and no credit card or ID requirements.

The 2022 Rising Star Award went to Valqari.

Momentum Award winner: 1440

The Momentum Award was presented to 1440, founded at 1871.  

1440 is a daily newsletter helping 2.6M+ Americans stay informed, it’s news without motives, edited to be as unbiased as humanly possible. On a mission to fix distrust in the media, 1440’s team of editors, experts, & analysts scour hundreds of sources across science, culture, politics, and business to deliver an impartial report on the day’s news so readers can be more informed. 

Designed to be read in under five minutes, 1440 aims to serve the vast majority of Americans who are exhausted by the constant barrage of agenda-driven coverage.

In addition, Tim Huelskamp, CEO of 1440 is one of the co-founders of Fifth Star Funds, a venture philanthropy fund that invests in Black tech founders in Chicago at the early stage “Friends & Family” round.

The 2022 Momentum Award went to Ocient. 

CityLIGHTS Award winner: SpotHero

The CityLIGHTS Award was presented to SpotHero, founded at 1871.  

SpotHero is the digital parking leader & the largest platform to buy and sell parking in over 300 cities in North America. With over 8,000 parking locations on SpotHero and over 50 million cars parked, SpotHero has changed the parking industry by providing price transparency, convenience, and safety to millions of drivers, while helping parking garage operators improve their operational efficiency and increase revenue. 

The 2022 CityLIGHTS went to ActiveCampaign. 

About The Momentum Awards

The Momentum Awards, now in its 16th year, is the largest annual celebration of tech innovation across Chicago and beyond. The event brings together 1871’s full community of innovators, leaders, civic supporters, and partners to celebrate the people that are disrupting their industries, building up their communities, and shaping the future.

With ~200 nominations, over 2,000 votes casted, and ~100 judges, this year’s finalists were selected from the most competitive and impressive pool of nominees in the event’s history. Winners were determined by a combination of public vote and vote by the 1871 Board of Directors. 

Lead sponsors this year include Ann Drake, AbbVie, AON, CDW, Discover, Kristi Ross, Jennifer Steans, McKinsey, and Sara Star. 

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+ alumni companies are currently still active, have created over 14,700 jobs, and have raised more than $3.7 billion in follow-on capital.

Contact

J Blaszczykiewicz

Director of Marketing, 1871

j@1871.com 

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1871 Announces 2023 Supply Chain Innovation Summit

CHICAGO, September 13th 2023 – Global nonprofit innovation hub 1871 is hosting its second annual Supply Chain Innovation Summit on October 4th, 2023. In partnership with Accenture, more than 250 key players in the supply chain and tech industries are expected to participate. Industry startups, corporate partners, investors, and public attendees will engage in thought-provoking sessions and unparalleled networking opportunities, all centered around supply chain innovation.

“We are bringing together the sharpest minds and pioneering technologies to revolutionize the way we navigate the complex web of global supply chains. We believe that collaboration, innovation, and forward-thinking strategies are the keys to driving efficiency, sustainability, and resilience in supply chains” said Betsy Ziegler, CEO of 1871. “We are thrilled to partner with Accenture once again for our second annual Supply Chain Innovation Summit.Together, we’ll chart a course toward a brighter and more connected future.”

“The time is now to reinvent today’s supply chain and logistics sector. Accenture and 1871 are convening startups, investors and companies to accelerate innovation for companies to grow and lead in today’s volatile environment,” said Patty Riedl, managing director and North America supply chain and operations lead at Accenture.  

The summit will serve as the culmination of the 2023 Supply Chain Innovation Lab cohort’s journey, which began earlier this year with support from Microsoft, Deacero, World Business Chicago, Canadian Consulate, Rheaply, Arkestro, Super Dispatch, and Flock Freight.

During the pitch showcases and interactive Startup Booths + Tech Playground, the cohort will have the opportunity to spotlight their innovative supply chain-focused services. This platform enables growth-stage startups to connect with attendees, potentially forming valuable partnerships, gaining exposure, and positioning themselves as industry leaders for future growth prospects. 

Summit Agenda

Running in parallel with the Foodtech Innovation Summit, the Supply Chain Innovation Summit event will immerse participants in a series of hybrid sessions highlighting industry trends, top startups in the space, and interactive breakout sessions for conversations on industry transformation. 

The two labs will congregate for joint informative keynotes with industry leaders, networking opportunities, and interactive Startup Booths + Tech Playground. This dynamic environment will allow attendees to interact with startups from both industries, fostering knowledge exchange and inspirational discussions on the latest tech trends. 

Stay tuned, we’re gearing up to unveil an all-star lineup of guest speakers and turbo-charged breakout session topics for our action-packed full-day agenda!

The public summit will have interactive programming at 1871 for attendees to participate from 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM CST. 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. In-person participation is highly recommended. 

Registration is required to participate in this event. RSVP and confirm your attendance by October 1st, 2023, as the number of public tickets is limited. 

For information regarding joining the summit as a sponsor, please reach out to  corpinno@1871.com. Subscribe to stay up-to-date on 1871’s Supply Chain-related programming & news.                                          

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, late 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.

Contact:
J Blaszczykiewicz, 

Sr. Director of Marketing

j@1871.com 

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