Chicago Day at Midwest House 2025
Chicago Day is back at Midwest House 2025. Last year more than 3000 of you came to celebrate Chicago Day with our good friends from World Business Chicago, so of course we had to run it back.
Joining in on the fun will be the Obama Foundation, Microsoft, 2112 Creative Industries Incubator, Portillo's, Pie, Kribi Coffee Co., Jeppson's Malört, 1871, BMO, WMN FinTech, the Chicago Bulls, the Chicago Bears, Cooley, Chicago:Blend, Axios, foode, Farmer's Fridge, and many many more.
Come for the Chicago themed Bingo, stay for the Portillo's chocolate cake and Malort shots.
Days Schedule will include:
Innovation Spotlight: 1871 featuring Stephanie Miller of 1871
Did you know Chicago is home to the world’s #1 globally ranked private innovation hub? Join 1871’s Chief Experience Officer as she dives into Chicago’s tech economy and shares what 1871 has to offer innovators (hint: you don’t have to be located in Chicago!) Whether you’re a founder, investor, or tech enthusiast, this session will inspire you to tap into one of the most dynamic innovation communities in the world.
Equitable Entrepreneurship: Illinois, the Midwest, and Beyond featuring Nicola Corzine of the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center & Nick Johnston of Axios
Illinois is a top 10 state for inclusive entrepreneurship. How does the rest of the Midwest stack up? Join Axios and the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center as they discuss the findings of their recent Venture Equity Project report. This discussion will highlight the policies, programs, and partnerships driving equity in entrepreneurship—in Illinois and across the country.
From Hot Dogs to High-Tech: Chicago’s Food Revolution featuring Emily Stucker of Farmer’s Fridge, Karuna Rawal, of Nature’s Fynd, Vallory McCormack of Portillo’s, and Ken Clay, Founder, Foode
Chicago’s food scene is legendary—from iconic hot dogs to cutting-edge food innovation. From Hot Dogs to High-Tech brings together industry leaders from Nature’s Fynd, Portillo’s, and Farmer’s Fridge to explore how technology, sustainability, and changing consumer tastes are reshaping the way we eat. From scaling beloved classics to pioneering new food solutions, this panel will dish out insights on what it takes to thrive in an evolving industry while staying true to Chicago’s rich culinary roots. Come hungry for ideas while filling up on Portillo’s chocolate cake and Farmer’s Fridge salads!
Coffee with Copilot featuring Lizzie Jones
Just like the perfect espresso shot, Microsoft Copilot can help entrepreneurs blend efficiency, creativity, and innovation into their daily grind. In this session, experts will spill the beans on how AI can help entrepreneurs streamline operations, enhance customer engagement, and fuel your business growth. Whether you’re just starting to percolate ideas or ready to pour AI into your workflow, this session will help you craft the perfect strategy—no barista required.
The Ultimate Assist: How the Chicago Bulls & Microsoft Power Game-Changing Partnerships featuring Nisaini Rexach, Community Engagement Lead, Microsoft and Adrienne Scherenzel, VP Community Engagement & Executive Director, Chicago Bulls Charities
Championship teams aren’t built alone—and neither are thriving communities. The Ultimate Assist explores how the Chicago Bulls and Microsoft are teaming up to drive meaningful change beyond the court. From empowering local youth and entrepreneurs to leveraging technology for social impact, this panel will highlight how strategic partnerships can create lasting opportunities.
KEYNOTE: From Chicago to the World: The Obama Presidential Center & Chicago’s Future featuring Phil Clement of World Business Chicago
Chicago’s South Side will soon be home to a project with global impact—the Obama Presidential Center. From Chicago to the World explores how this center will serve as a beacon for civic engagement, economic growth, and community-driven change. Hear from Josh Harris, The Obama Foundation’s VP of Public Engagement, on how the center will inspire local and global leaders, create opportunities for Chicago’s neighborhoods, and cement the city’s role as a hub for innovation and activism. This is more than a building—it’s a movement.
Innovation Spotlight: Chicago:Blend featuring Joey Mak of Chicago:Blend
Venture capital fuels innovation—but who gets funded matters. In this 10-minute spotlight session, discover how Chicago:Blend is increasing representation and creating more equitable opportunities for overlooked funders and founders. Learn why a more inclusive investment landscape isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s the smart thing to do.
Slices of Pie: How the IRL Creative Economy Fuels Togetherness featuring Samir of Mirza of Pie
In an increasingly digital world, real-life connections matter more than ever. Join Samir Mirza, COO of Chicago-based startup Pie, alongside three of Pie’s creators for a conversation on the power of IRL togetherness. They’ll share insights on why building in-person communities is essential, how technology can enhance—not replace—human connection, and practical tips for bringing people together in meaningful ways. Whether you're looking to strengthen your neighborhood, organization, or creative circle, this session will give you the recipe for fostering authentic community in a hyper-connected world.