Startup Networking Chicago: Founders, Investors & Talent Mixer
Schedule
Tue Jun 02 2026 at 07:00 pm to 10:00 pm
UTC-05:00Location
The Staley | Chicago, IL
About this Event
Startup Networking Event in Chicago for founders, investors, and tech talent.
Join a high-signal startup networking event in Chicago where founders, investors, and talent connect to build and scale startups.Meet the right people, unlock real opportunities, and grow within the Chicago startup ecosystem.
💡 Why This Event Is Different
Most networking events end with exchanged LinkedIn profiles.
This one focuses on real conversations and real opportunities.
We bring together founders, investors, engineers, operators and talent in a curated environment designed to create meaningful connections.
Through interactive networking rounds, open conversations and pitch opportunities, participants can share challenges, exchange insights and build relationships that last beyond the event.
🤝 What to Expect
Startup Networking in Chicago
Structured networking rounds where founders, investors, and talent connect, share challenges, and explore opportunities.
Talent & Hiring Connections
Meet engineers, operators, and professionals in the Chicago startup ecosystem.
Startup & Investor Conversations
Discussions around fundraising, product development, and scaling startups.
👥 Who Should Attend
- Startup founders in Chicago
- VC and angels investors
- Engineers and builders
- Operators and product managers
- Recruiters and HR professionals
- Sales and business development professionals
- Job seekers interested in startups
- Newcomers to the Chicago tech ecosystem
🎤 Want to Pitch?
A limited number of founders will have the opportunity to present their startup.
Selected founders will showcase their pitch deck to the audience and attending investors, followed by a short Q&A where participants can ask questions and share feedback.
Apply by sending your pitch
Spots are limited and founders will be selected in advance.
💼 For Investors
We invite local investors, angels and venture capitalists to join the event.
Investor participation is complimentary.
After verification, investors receive access to the Ascent Valley ecosystem, including:
• curated startup introductions
• access to our startup digest
• access to our platform and founder community
Interested investors can request verification
Agenda
🕑: 06:45 PM - 07:20 PM
Check-in
Info: Check in, grab a drink, and start meeting fellow founders, builders, and investors before the program begins.
🕑: 07:20 PM - 08:20 PM
Interactive Networking Session
Info: A structured networking format designed to help participants share challenges, exchange insights, and connect with people who can help solve real startup problems.
🕑: 08:20 PM - 08:40 PM
Break
Info: Time to recharge, continue conversations, and prepare for the startup pitch session.
🕑: 08:50 PM - 09:30 PM
Startup Pitch Session
Info: Selected founders present their startups to the audience and receive feedback from founders, operators, and investors.
🕑: 09:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Chill Networking
Info: Informal conversation to wrap up.
Where is it happening?
The Staley, 1736 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00 to USD 65.86
