Chicago Startups, Investors, Professionals: Pitch & Networking Event

This isn’t your average networking event—it’s a high-energy evening centered around live pitching, real conversations, and new opportunities.

Everyone attending is welcome to pitch. Whether you’re building something, investing, advising, or exploring your next move, you’ll get a 1-minute slot to introduce yourself, share your idea, or ask for what you need. No slides, no panels—just straight to the point.

Why Attend?

• Founders: Pitch your startup, gain visibility, and connect with potential investors, partners, or co-founders.
• Investors: Get quick insights into a variety of startups and meet ambitious entrepreneurs.
• Advisors & Experts: Share your experience, discover collaboration opportunities, or join a project that excites you.
• Newcomers: Practice your pitch in a supportive space and grow your network fast.

What to Expect:

• Open networking on arrival to meet fellow attendees in a relaxed setting
• A pitching session where everyone has the chance to take the mic for 1 minute
• More networking after the pitches—so you can follow up with the people who caught your attention
• A curated, welcoming crowd of founders, investors, and tech professionals

Who Should Attend:

• Startup Founders and Co-founders: Entrepreneurs at the helm of innovative startups looking for networking, investment, and growth opportunities.
• Investors and Venture Capitalists: Individuals and entities interested in discovering promising startups and entrepreneurial ventures for potential investment.

• Small to Medium Business Owners: Owners seeking to innovate, expand their networks, and explore new market opportunities or partnerships.
• Marketing and Sales Professionals: Experts looking to connect with startups and businesses in need of marketing strategies and sales optimization.
• Tech Enthusiasts and Developers: Those passionate about the latest technology trends, looking for collaborative projects or startup opportunities.
• Creative Professionals: Designers, writers, and artists interested in business collaborations, freelancing opportunities, or new ventures.
• Consultants and Freelancers: Specialists in business, finance, legal, and other areas seeking new clients and partnership opportunities.
• Emerging Entrepreneurs: Individuals in the early stages of developing their business ideas, seeking inspiration, mentorship, and foundational networks.
• Corporate Executives and Managers: Leaders looking for innovative startups to partner with, invest in, or acquire, aiming to drive corporate innovation.
• Students and Recent Graduates: Ambitious individuals aiming to dive into the entrepreneurial ecosystem, looking for internships, mentorship, or startup opportunities.

Guest Guidelines:

• Guests must be 21+ years old
• Please arrive well-presented
• Purchase one drink at the bar (alcohol-free options included)

You will be able to join the dedicated Whatsapp group for the event and start networking before the actual event.

Start Networking Before the Event

We’ve created a dedicated WhatsApp group so you can start connecting, share what you're working on, and see who else is attending before the event. The link to join will be shared in your confirmation email after registration.

Come for the pitches, stay for the people. Share what you're building, find the support you need, or discover the next idea you want to back.

Info: Kick off the evening with a warm introduction and overview of how the networking and pitch session will run.

Info: Each participant will have the opportunity to deliver a short 60-second elevator pitch to the room. This is your chance to introduce your business, share what you’re building, and clearly state what you're looking for — investment, partnerships, clients, or talent.

Info: Open networking session. Connect with founders, investors, and professionals in a relaxed setting. Continue conversations sparked during pitches, exchange contacts, and explore collaboration opportunities.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Startup Connect