Summit to highlight Chicago as a leading, global hub for investment in a vibrant tech economy

Mayor Rahm Emanuel and World Business Chicago announced that the third Chicago Venture Summit will be held on September 13 and 14, 2017. The summit offers investors one-on-one access to emerging companies, as well as access to leaders of Fortune 500 firms in Chicago. In past years, the Chicago Venture Summit brought national attention to Chicago’s growing startup scene.

“Chicago’s tech sector is thriving thanks to our diverse talent, competitive business environment and innovative culture that reaches across our many industries,” Mayor Emanuel said. “The Chicago Venture Summit has been a great asset to the city, and I look forward to building on its success to create jobs and strengthen Chicago’s position as global hub for innovation.”

At the 2017 Chicago Venture Summit, invited entrepreneurs will represent promising technology companies that have already raised capital but are seeking additional financing. Attendees will also get an inside look at how prominent venture capital firms assess investment opportunities, learn strategies of corporate venture arms and hear how Chicago’s universities develop top talent and entrepreneurship.

Last year’s summit attracted nearly 150 investment firms and 230 venture capitalists that represented more than $20 billion in investment capital.

The Chicago Venture Summit is one of the key initiatives of ChicagoNEXT, World Business Chicago’s council of technology leaders who lead the effort to drive growth and opportunity in science, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship.

“We’re excited to invite investors, corporations and leading venture capital firms from across the country to discover why Chicago continues to be one of the best cities for return on investment,” Mark Tebbe, Chairman of ChicagoNEXT said.

JP Morgan and Google have returned as the lead sponsors for the upcoming 2017 summit. Information on additional sponsorship opportunities is available at www.chicagoventuresummit.com