From October 4th to 6th, Chicago played host to an amazing event that resonated with innovation, sustainability, and boundless possibilities. The “Chicago Venture Summit 2023 Future-of-Climate-Tech” brought together a global community of over 800 startups, innovators, investors, and visionary leaders. The event was nothing short of a revelation.
With attendees coming from over 10 countries, including Argentina, Mexico, Brazil, and more, the summit was a global confluence of diverse perspectives and ideas. It was a testament to the global nature of the climate tech movement, showcasing how this shared concern transcends borders. With a remarkable attendance of 149 companies, the startup portfolio was a standout feature.\
Some of the hilghlights of this great meeting:
Empowering Diverse Voices
The TechRise Chicago startup pitch competition was a spotlight for underrepresented voices in the tech space, with a focus on diverse and female founders. It’s an initiative that goes beyond words, empowering those who are often underrepresented on the innovation stage.Inspirational Keynote
A highlight of the summit was the thought-provoking keynote address by Invenergy, a company that had just announced its global headquarters expansion in Chicago. Their insights shed light on the path ahead for climate technology, leaving attendees inspired and informed.Panels that Sparked Debate
The event featured a series of panels, each delving into critical aspects of climate tech. “Future of Startups,” “Future of Markets,” “Future of Industry,” and “Future of the Chicagoland Investment Alliance” were themes that ignited thought-provoking discussions.The Debut of Startup & VC Day
A significant milestone was reached with the introduction of the first-ever Startup & VC Day. Over 100 founders and investors came together, fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration.Driving Climate-Focused Investments
The summit saw the launch of the Chicagoland Climate Investment Alliance, supported by the Governor’s Office and the Chicago Mayor’s Office. This initiative is poised to accelerate climate-focused investments, emphasizing the commitment of Chicago’s leadership to sustainability.Sharing Knowledge
The summit also marked the release of Chicagoland’s Green Economy addition of the Chicago Business Bulletin by the World Business Chicago Research Center. This publication serves as a valuable resource for those passionate about the green economy sector.
The “Chicago Venture Summit 2023 Future-of-Climate-Tech” was more than a meeting; it was a celebration of innovation, diversity, and sustainability. It provided a glimpse into a future where technology and collaboration hold the key to addressing our planet’s most pressing challenges.
For GrowinCo. this was an event of profound relevance. It served as a transformative experience, broadening our horizons within the climate tech landscape. The connections made, the insights gained, and the collaborative spirit that permeated every interaction have left an indelible mark on our journey. This event has propelled us into a future where sustainability, innovation, and diversity are at the forefront of our mission. We depart from Chicago with newfound inspiration, eager to continue our commitment to driving positive change in the CPG industry and beyond. The Chicago Venture Summit was not just an event; it was a catalyst for our growth and a testament to the limitless possibilities that lie ahead.
As we reflect on this remarkable gathering, it’s clear that the future of climate tech is bright, and Chicago played a pivotal role in shaping it. The seeds of innovation planted here are destined to grow into solutions that will make a lasting impact on our world. We go back home with the feeling this is just the beginning of an exciting journey!
