

LP Breakfast & Conversation
Connecting Capital to Build a Better Venture Ecosystem
Hosted by Chicago:Blend in partnership with World Business Chicago, NVNG, and Sorenson Impact Group
Join us for an exclusive breakfast designed for limited partners and capital allocators—both active and curious. Our goal is to build community, explore how we can support emerging managers, and promote an inclusive tech / venture ecosystem here in Chicago.
Over the past year, we’ve been mapping the LP landscape and listening closely to what investors need. This private, invite-only gathering continues that effort: a space for open, candid dialogue and meaningful connections among a curated group of LPs.
Facilitated by Jesse Simmons, Managing Director at CapShift, the discussion will focus on sparking collaboration and shaping a more inclusive, dynamic venture ecosystem.
Let’s build something better—together.
Who Should Attend
This breakfast is for you if you:
Have experience deploying capital—as an angel or institutional LP
Care about strengthening Chicago’s startup and innovation economy
Are exploring or curious about early-stage venture investing
What to Expect
A casual, off-the-record breakfast designed for connection, collaboration, and candid insight.
Confirmed participants include:
Phil Clement – World Business Chicago
Jesse Simmons – CapShift
Marina Rostein – NVNG Investment Advisors
Ibrahim Rashid – Sorenson Impact Foundation
Jacqueline Kerns – Illinois Growth & Innovation Fund
Joey Mak – Chicago:Blend (host)
We’ll kick off with quick intros, followed by an open group discussion guided by a few key prompts.
Breakfast is on us. Conversation is the focus. Attendee list shared in advance.