ELC Fireside Chat
About this Event
What happens when the latino leaders responsible for more than $22 billion in public infrastructure, transportation, and construction contracts sit down in one room with the entrepreneurs and business owners shaping the future of our communities?
We're about to find out...
Join the Executive Latino Council on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Security Innovation Hub (1308 South Kilbourn Ave, Chicago) for an exclusive fireside chat with six of the most influential agency decision-makers across Illinois and the Chicagoland region.
Together, the agencies represented on our panel oversee more than $22 billion in active capital and contract programs:
- Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)
- Illinois Tollway
- Illinois Capital Development Board
- Cook County
- Forest Preserve District of Cook County
- Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD)
This is your opportunity to gain insight into how major contracts are awarded, understand the opportunities coming down the pipeline, learn how successful firms position themselves for growth, and — most importantly — build meaningful relationships with the leaders driving these investments.
Too often, businesses focus solely on responding to bids. The companies that scale understand that long-term growth is built through relationships, strategic positioning, and understanding the ecosystem behind the opportunities.
Who should attend: Contractor CEOs, architects, engineers, and firm principals working on — or ready to pursue — large public projects.
An intentionally intimate evening. Attendance is limited to 85 guests. No large ballroom. No crowded networking reception. Just real leaders, real conversations, and real opportunities.
The next opportunity may not come from a bid. It may come from a conversation.
Seats are limited — reserve yours today.
Presented by the Executive Latino Council · executivelatinoclub.org
Agenda
🕑: 06:00 PM - 06:25 PM
Doors Open — Registration, Networking & Appetizers
Info: Guests check in, grab food and drinks, and browse sponsor booths at your own pace.
🕑: 06:25 PM - 06:30 PM
Welcome & Opening Remarks
Info: ELC intro, thank the Security Innovation Hub and booth sponsors, and we set the tone for the evening.
🕑: 06:30 PM - 07:20 PM
Fireside Chat with 6 Agency Leaders
Info: Moderated conversation (~50 min): navigating identity in government, how contracts are awarded, upcoming opportunities, how firms position for growth.
🕑: 07:20 PM - 07:35 PM
Audience Q&A
Info: Moderator fields questions, keeps answers moving.
🕑: 07:35 PM - 07:55 PM
Sponsor Booth Showcase, Dessert & Networking
Info: Dedicated booth time, guests circulate to sponsor booths; speakers stay for one-on-one conversations.
🕑: 07:55 PM - 08:00 PM
Closing Remarks
Info: Final thank speakers and sponsors, membership call to action, announce the next ELC event.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 199.99
