Scale your growth with Chicago's best accelerators & incubators

An accelerator located in Chicago, Illinois, focuses on empowering early-stage companies that leverage disruptive technologies, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Deeptech, Cleantech, Quantum Information Science, Advanced Manufacturing, Biotechnology, and 5G/Advanced Wireless Technology. The program runs for 90 days, offering intensive mentorship and access to a global network of investors and entrepreneurs. The application timeline for the 2024 program opens on May 22nd and concludes on September 9th, leading to the start on December 5th. Participants receive a standard deal of $120K for 6% equity, with resources available for life. Tricia Martinez serves as the Managing Director, supported by partner mentors including Tara Reed and Amanda Lannert. The organization emphasizes equitable access to funding for entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, including Black, Hispanic, Indigenous American, and Pacific Islander communities. By fostering collaboration within Chicago's tech ecosystem, it aims to tackle global challenges through innovation and provide startups with a pathway to scale their businesses effectively.

Techstars Chicago Powered by J.P. Morgan's Website

A prominent venture capital fund, dedicated to fostering innovation within the real estate industry and its adjacent sectors, is backed by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) and runs the REACH accelerator program. This initiative aims to launch and accelerate technology startups focused on real estate, based in Chicago, IL, and operates through an intensive event-based structure that connects participants with a robust network of over 1,000 real estate executives and industry leaders across 85 countries. The organization manages a portfolio comprising over 200 technology companies that span various domains, including real estate, financial services, and home services. The REACH program emphasizes mentorship, offering 1:1 guidance from industry experts and investors to shape emerging technologies. Key personnel leading the institution include founders Bob Goldberg and Dale Stinton. This initiative plays a crucial role in the real estate sector by bridging startups with established industry networks and providing essential resources for growth and innovation.

Second Century Ventures's Website

Techstars Chicago is a global platform that provides investment and innovation, with a focus on audacious founders pioneering disruptive emerging technologies, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Deeptech. The accelerator, known as Techstars Chicago Powered by J.P. Morgan, offers a 3-month program starting on December 5th, 2024. Led by Managing Director Tricia Martinez and Program Manager Anthony Alepra, the institution aims to solve global problems through AI innovation. Notable mentors include Tara Reed, Amanda Lannert, Victoria Bills, Sergio Suarez, and Veronica Aguilar. Positioned in the Midwest startup ecosystem, the program provides access to capital, connections, and mentorship. Founded by Brad Feld, Chisa Egbelu, Daniel Mason, David Brown, David Cohen, and Jared Polis, Techstars Chicago specializes in AI and Fintech industries. Participants benefit from perks such as funding, lifelong access to the network, and mentorship from a wide range of experienced professionals.

Techstars Chicago's Website

This sophisticated growth accelerator cultivates innovation ecosystems by connecting mature corporations with ambitious startups. Founded by industry veterans Fred Hoch and Terry Howerton, it provides capital investment, incubation, and collaboration, enabling the creation of new business models, revenue streams, and market expansion. The organization emphasizes partnerships, granting entrepreneurs access to leading corporations which unlocks business growth through new sales channels, product co-development, and valuable industry insights. Support is extended across a diverse range of industries including clean energy, healthcare technology, and gaming, among others. While the exact number of startups in the portfolio is not specified, it actively engages with early-stage companies, fostering their development through mentorship and strategic guidance in areas such as pricing, fundraising, and market research. Additionally, participants benefit from insights and access to a global network of mentors, fellow founders, customers, and investors, enhancing their growth potential. Through its commitment to collaboration and innovation, this institution significantly impacts the startup ecosystem, propelling ambitious ventures toward success.

TechNexus Venture Collaborative's Website

This premier program is dedicated to accelerating sustainability and climate tech startups. It invests $100,000 in five cutting-edge startups per cohort, running twice a year, totaling $500,000 in investments annually. Over a 12-week period, selected startups receive invaluable coaching, mentorship, and connections to experts to help refine their business models and strategies. The initiative invites startups focused on solving, mitigating, or adapting to the pressing climate and environmental crises and emphasizes engaging founders from diverse communities impacted by climate change. The organization supports various industries, including Clean Energy, Environmental Tech, Fintech, and Renewable Energy, aimed at fostering innovative solutions such as renewable energy systems and waste management strategies. Key figures behind the initiative include Dan Armbrust, Joe Kirgues, Jon Eckhardt, and Troy Vosseller. Operating on a standard deal structure, it offers $100,000 for 7% equity on a SAFE. By cultivating a community of passionate founders, the program is committed to creating a future responsive to environmental challenges.

gener8tor Sustainability Accelerator's Website

IrishAngels is a prominent angel investing network affiliated with the University of Notre Dame, dedicated to investing in pre-seed and seed stage startups across various sectors, including B2B, consumer, and medical companies. Key figures such as Gale Wilkinson and Jordan Curnes play integral roles in its leadership. The organization focuses on a collaborative and founder-friendly approach, providing valuable support to entrepreneurs through regular check-ins and leveraging an extensive network for added value. With millions of dollars deployed in capital, it actively invests in innovative early-stage companies in industries such as eCommerce, fintech, healthcare technology, and SaaS. The strategic involvement ranges from comprehensive due diligence to ongoing support after the investment, ensuring the growth and success of portfolio companies. This commitment positions the institution as a significant driver of innovation and entrepreneurship within the startup ecosystem.

IrishAngels's Website

Healthbox, a HIMSS Solution, is a pioneering healthcare accelerator founded in 2010, dedicated to fostering innovation and digital transformation within the healthcare sector. As one of the world's first health-focused accelerators, it partners with providers, payers, market suppliers, and startups to drive entrepreneurial growth and technology adoption in the industry. Operating for over a decade, the organization specializes in health-tech innovations and provides invaluable resources for early-stage startups. Its unique program includes Healthbox Studios, which assists startups in navigating the complexities of healthcare, with locations in key cities including Chicago, Boston, Los Angeles, Orlando, Salt Lake City, and Tel Aviv. Furthermore, it has developed Idealy, an innovative software solution for gathering insights to enhance decision-making processes. Founded by Nina Nashif, the institution exemplifies a commitment to transforming the health ecosystem and supporting a diverse array of startups. In January 2022, it was acquired by Biolife Sciences Corp, underlining its impact and significance in the healthcare innovation landscape.

Healthbox's Website

Illinois Ventures is a venture capital investment firm dedicated to life science and technology innovation, primarily focusing on research-derived companies in information technologies. Established in 2015, the iVenture Accelerator operates as an educational accelerator for student startups affiliated with the University of Illinois, offering essential support through funding, mentorship, and access to a vast network of resources. Each participating venture receives $10,000 in funding, alongside a $2,500 stipend for up to four full-time team members without any equity taken. This support has enabled teams to create over 550 jobs, with alumni achieving prestigious recognitions such as being named in Forbes 30-Under-30 and receiving Thiel Fellowships. Notable startups have successfully progressed to prominent accelerators like Y-Combinator and TechStars. The program emphasizes both non-profit and for-profit ventures, providing comprehensive assistance from ideation through to scaling. With approximately $300,000 worth of resources available, including AWS credits, it nurtures a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and social impact in domains such as Edtech, Fintech, and Healthcare Tech.

Illinois Ventures's Website

This prominent technology company is headquartered in Chicago and specializes in digital transformation across various industries, particularly healthcare. They offer a range of accelerator programs designed to help organizations bridge the gap between strategic planning and execution. One of their key offerings is the Digital Product Accelerator, a six-week program focused on refining and validating solutions through expert consultations and methodologies such as design thinking and agile development. Another significant program is the Digital Venture Accelerator, which aims to launch and scale innovative products and services quickly, enhancing market reach. The organization provides specialized accelerators as well. The Omnichannel Engagement Accelerator helps unify digital interactions, while the Modern Data Platform and Analytics Accelerator offers actionable steps for improving data foundations. Additionally, the Cloud Migration and App Modernization Accelerator focuses on driving cloud journeys, and the Intelligent Automation Accelerator identifies automation opportunities to streamline processes. Each program is time-bound, ensuring a focused approach. Founded by Joel Livet, this institution serves industries such as General Tech, Mobile Apps, and SaaS, providing participants with access to expert guidance and industry insights, ultimately driving successful digital initiatives.

Productive Edge's Website

The center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Chicago serves as a leading hub for early-stage ventures, offering specialized accelerator programs designed to propel startups towards success. The BUILD Accelerator enables student teams to validate market assumptions and develop their ventures over the summer, while the LAUNCH Accelerator emphasizes fundraising and maintaining momentum during the same season. Both accelerators require applications by early April and provide selected teams with funding, mentorship from alumni, and access to Chicago-area investors. Additionally, the institution hosts advanced programs like the Compass accelerator, which focuses on deep tech innovations, and Transform, a 16-week program dedicated to data science and AI ventures, developed in partnership with the Data Science Institute. These initiatives are tailored to foster innovation in various domains and support entrepreneurs as they navigate the challenges of launching successful businesses. The organization also has a historical connection to notable figures in business, being associated with founders like John Rockefeller, and focuses on industries such as Artificial Intelligence and Edtech.

Polsky Center's Website

As the largest independent innovation center for hardtech in the United States, this organization focuses on physical product development. It offers the Climate & Energy Tech Accelerator, a comprehensive 26-week program aimed at fast-tracking startups in the energy, climate, and clean tech sectors. Each selected startup receives an initial investment of $105,000 in cash and $70,000 in services, programming, and hardware, in exchange for 6.5% equity. The accelerator has already supported 46 high-growth hardtech startups, emphasizing products related to renewable energy, sustainability, and environmental impact. Key program components include guidance on prototyping, business viability, and access to mentors, industry leaders, and investors. Furthermore, the Product Impact Fund allows for hands-on venture investment during incubation, with about 30% of its capital reserved for follow-on investments in select portfolio companies. Founders Bill Fienup and Haven Allen lead this initiative, helping startups develop their hardtech innovations and establish a foundation for scalable, profitable businesses. Relocation to Chicago is required for the duration of the program, providing participants with access to invaluable resources and networking opportunities.

mHUB (Chicago)'s Website

Duality is the first accelerator program in the US exclusively dedicated to supporting innovative quantum startups. Based in Chicago, known as a leading hub for quantum innovation, the program runs for 12 months, providing a nurturing environment for new startup companies focusing on quantum science and technology. The accelerator stands out for its exclusive quantum focus, offering participants world-class business training from partner institutions and the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, along with mentorship from quantum experts. State-of-the-art facilities are provided to foster growth and development within the program. Duality plays a vital role in advancing quantum technologies by supporting and accelerating promising startups in this cutting-edge sector, ultimately contributing to the evolution of quantum science and technology. The industries served by the accelerator include a wide spectrum, as it is sector-agnostic.

Duality's Website

This prominent accelerator is dedicated to supporting women-led technology startups in North America. The program is a 10-week intensive initiative designed for high-potential Seed to Series A tech startups based in the U.S. and Canada, with a cohort typically consisting of 10-15 startups. Participants tackle specific technical challenges through a combination of remote and in-person mentorship, group learning sessions, and expert guidance from industry leaders and Google teams. The focus lies particularly on startups leveraging technology in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and General Tech, encouraging scalable product development with a strong growth model. Eligibility is geared towards women-led teams with at least 5 employees, aiming to foster diversity and innovation in the tech ecosystem. Tailored mentorship on technical challenges, product design workshops, and valuable industry connections are integral components of the initiative. Founders Kimmy Paluch and Sergio Paluch lead this effort, which has garnered praise from participants like Amanda Julian and Kelsey Hahn of Monark. They highlight the immense value of mentorship and technical support offered throughout the program.

Women's Startup Academy's Website

This innovation hub is dedicated to disrupting and advancing the food industry. At the core of its mission is the Food Foundry, an accelerator program launched in collaboration with Gordon Food Service. This initiative focuses on nurturing companies revolutionizing the foodservice sector, providing support through funding introductions, access to national foodservice resources, and personalized mentorship. Founders in the program benefit from a vibrant community, comprising entrepreneurs, mentors, and industry leaders, primarily based in Chicago, Illinois. The Food Foundry has successfully hosted several cohorts, including its fifth cohort starting in January 2023, helping early-stage innovators collaborate with established industry players. The accelerator is known for its emphasis on food and foodservice innovation across various domains, such as technology, sustainability, and culinary advancements. Additionally, the leadership of Mack Tilling amplifies the organization's ability to connect startups with critical industry expertise and extensive networks, fostering an ecosystem ripe for innovation in agriculture technology, fintech, logistics, and renewable energy.

Relish Works's Website

This nonprofit organization is dedicated to empowering youth through entrepreneurship, with a mission to create the largest inclusive community of young entrepreneurs nationwide. To date, it has served over 47,000 individuals, contributing to the creation of 1,980 jobs and generating an impressive $374 million in revenue through ventures associated with its programs. The initiative includes a free Startup Bootcamp for individuals aged 18 to 30, focusing on transforming ideas into viable businesses through workshops, mentorship, and peer support. Additionally, a prestigious year-long Fellowship program accelerates the nation's top young entrepreneurs by emphasizing personal development and company growth. Participants benefit from connections with experienced entrepreneurs, fostering a supportive peer community and engaging with the vibrant startup ecosystem. Founded by Bradley Keywell, Candice Blacknall, and Scott Issen, this institution was launched with funding from the Motorola Solutions Foundation, which continues to support its mission of nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs. It specializes in areas that include educational technology and general technology, aiming to cultivate essential entrepreneurial skills across diverse industries.

Future Founders's Website

Paragon Biosciences, founded by Jeff Aronin, is a global healthcare company specializing in biotech and healthcare tech. The organization focuses on accelerating biomedical research and solving human challenges by nurturing visionary companies in the life sciences domain. Portfolio companies like Harmony Biosciences, Emalex Biosciences, Evozyne, Castle Creek Biosciences, and CiRC Biosciences receive support to develop novel therapies for various conditions. For instance, Harmony Biosciences offers innovative treatments for sleep-wake disorders, Emalex Biosciences concentrates on central nervous system disorders including Tourette syndrome, Evozyne utilizes generative AI for novel protein systems, while Castle Creek Biosciences pioneers cell and gene therapies for skin diseases. The expertise, industry connections, and financial backing of Paragon Biosciences enhance the success of its portfolio firms. The organization provides resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities, contributing to the growth and development of startups in neurology, rare diseases, and regenerative medicine.

Paragon Biosciences's Website

Matter is a Chicago-based accelerator founded in 2013, focusing on healthcare sectors like biotech and healthcare tech. Collaborating with healthcare innovators, their goal is to improve products and services through technology solutions. Matter integrates sales outsourcing, marketing services, and proprietary technology to drive measurable growth for B2B companies in the healthcare sector. Specializing in digital health, medical devices, and health IT, they aim to facilitate growth at an unprecedented speed, leading to bigger deals. While specific metrics like the number of start-ups associated or funded are undisclosed, Matter actively seeks new investments. The accelerator, co-founded by Andrew Cittadine and David Schonthal, provides market-leading products to enhance precision and performance. By leveraging their expertise and proprietary technology, Matter offers a seamless experience for start-ups looking to make a difference in the healthcare industry.

Matter (Consulting Services (B2B))'s Website

Based in Chicago, MATTER Chicago Healthcare Incubator is a global startup accelerator and community nexus driving healthcare innovation and entrepreneurship in collaboration with industry leaders. Supported by the City of Chicago, the State of Illinois, and local businesses, MATTER serves hundreds of startups globally with diverse programs in healthcare and life sciences, focusing on digital health, medical devices, and biotechnology. Among the notable founders are Andrew Cittadine and David Schonthal. The accelerator facilitates workshops, fireside chats, and events for entrepreneurs, partnering with executives, entrepreneurs, and investors to foster a dynamic community aimed at improving products and services in the healthcare industry. Recent initiatives include the U.S. Market Expansion Program with KOSME and the Health Equity Innovation Challenge in collaboration with the Healthcare Education, Research, and Innovation Foundation. MATTER's innovative approach and commitment to healthcare excellence make it a vital player in advancing health technology and patient care worldwide.

Matter Chicago - Healthcare Incubator's Website

This innovative growth program is designed to support startups reshaping the food and foodservice industry. Established collaboratively by Relish Works, Gordon Food Service, and 1871, the 16-week accelerator focuses on enabling early-stage innovators and established companies to transform the foodservice value chain through technology and creativity. Each participating startup receives an initial investment of $75,000, coupled with extensive 1:1 mentorship and specialized programming. The program fosters a vibrant ecosystem by connecting entrepreneurs with industry experts, investors, and like-minded founders, facilitating workshops and events that enhance networking opportunities. It targets a diversity of sectors including third-party delivery, blockchain, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, robotics, and more. Located in Chicago, Illinois, this accelerator equips entrepreneurs with the resources, education, and support necessary to develop cutting-edge solutions across the food value chain, making it an essential hub for innovation in the food industry.

The Food Foundry Accelerator's Website

Founded in 2012, this not-for-profit innovation hub is located in Chicago and is dedicated to transforming the entrepreneurial landscape by supporting technology startup founders, leaders, and innovators. Under the leadership of CEO Betsy Ziegler, the organization fosters a vibrant community, comprising over 400 early-stage companies across a broad spectrum of industries, including FinTech, Healthcare Tech, Logistics and Supply Chain, and SaaS (Software as a Service). The institution is designed to uplift its members by connecting them with potential investors and industry experts, thereby enhancing their business prospects. It serves as a collaborative environment where entrepreneurs can access co-working spaces, workshops, and educational events tailored to their growth needs. Notable founders and supporters of the initiative include J.B. Pritzker, James O'Connor, Steven Collens, and Tom Lee. In addition to connections and community support, the hub offers marketing promotion to its startups and provides exclusive perks aimed at facilitating innovation. By combining resources and a shared vision, it plays a pivotal role in driving economic impact through technological advancement and startup success.

1871's Website

This Chicago-based media platform, founded in 2010, is dedicated to the startup ecosystem. It specializes in connecting entrepreneurs with investors, providing visibility to new ventures through various media channels. The organization hosts live startup showcase events, allowing emerging startups to present their ideas and products to a broad audience, including potential investors. Additionally, a weekly podcast is produced that discusses startup trends, success stories, and industry insights. A newsletter is also distributed, reaching over 30,000 investors and offering updates on startup news and investment opportunities. The firm engages with a diverse range of industries, including entertainment, general technology, healthcare technology, and SaaS (Software as a Service). Established by key figures Mark Bertrand, Scott Kitun, Seth Kravitz, Val Chulamorkodt, and Zack Gilbert, the institution plays a vital role in fostering the startup community.

Technori's Website

This prestigious year-long program aims at accelerating the nation's top young entrepreneurs, specifically those aged 18 to 30 who are founders and equity holders of their businesses. The nonprofit initiative emphasizes the development of growth-stage founders as effective leaders, providing a supportive environment without taking equity from the startups. Participants gain access to a national network of successful peers and are offered mentoring, skill development, and entrepreneurship retreats. The program is primarily virtual, facilitating participation from various locations, and includes enriching Founders Weekends held in Chicago. Since its inception, the initiative has had a profound impact, leading to the creation of 1,980 jobs, generating $374 million in revenue, and raising $299 million in capital across a diverse range of industries, including Artificial Intelligence, Edtech, Healthcare Tech, and Social Media. Esteemed entrepreneurs such as Bradley Keywell, Candice Blacknall, and Scott Issen oversee the program, which supports a variety of business ideas and sectors, underscoring its industry-agnostic approach. This Fellowship not only equips young entrepreneurs with essential resources but also fosters a vibrant community for personal and business growth.

Future Founders - Fellowship's Website

This nonprofit organization is dedicated to empowering young entrepreneurs across the United States. The Startup Bootcamp is a three-month program tailored for individuals aged 18 to 30, focusing on idea-stage companies. This free, equity-free accelerator is designed to transform participants' ideas, passions, and side hustles into viable businesses through a series of workshops, mentorship opportunities, and peer support. The program's content is industry-agnostic, welcoming participants from various sectors, including edtech and general tech. Instructors are experienced entrepreneurs, providing relevant guidance and fostering a community of young innovators. Participants also engage in virtual sessions, which allow for inclusive access regardless of location. As part of the program, attendees will have the chance to form lasting relationships with peers and receive motivation and accountability tools to achieve their goals. Additionally, founders who demonstrate intent and traction may progress to Phase Two, where they can connect with coaches and peer mentors for further business growth. Notable figures associated with the organization include founders Bradley Keywell, Candice Blacknall, and Scott Issen, all committed to nurturing future generations of entrepreneurs.

Future Founders - Startup Bootcamp's Website

VentureShot is a startup and growth-stage incubator and strategic growth program. Founded in 2012, it is based in Chicago, Illinois. The accelerator focuses on helping entrepreneurs build their businesses by emphasizing key factors like growing revenues, scaling the business, and securing funding. It has made one investment in Shurpa Health within the Logistics industry and has one exit involving the same startup, occurring on November 16, 2022. While the accelerator's specialization domains are not explicitly mentioned, it likely supports startups across various industries, including logistics. The mission of the organization is to empower entrepreneurs, foster growth, and facilitate funding opportunities for startups. Notable investments by VentureShot include Shurpa Health in the Logistics and Supply Chain industry.

VentureShot's Website

This prominent accelerator program positions Chicago as a global technology hub for investment, entrepreneurship, and innovation, particularly in the food and agriculture sectors. The standout event, Future-of-Food Week 2024, is scheduled for May 20-24, 2024, and aims to connect food innovators throughout the Midwest. This multi-day program will engage over 1,000 startups, venture capital firms, and Fortune 500 companies, facilitating a vibrant ecosystem for early-stage tech ventures. Accepted startups benefit from complimentary tickets and exclusive invitations to specially curated programming. The organization emphasizes venture matchmaking, linking 250+ entrepreneurs with regional and national investors seeking Pre-Seed, Seed, Series A, or Series B funding rounds. Since its inception in 2014, it has been a key driver in promoting the Chicagoland area as a capital for food and agriculture innovation, encompassing industries such as Agriculture Tech, Fintech, and Food and Beverage. The program continues to foster the growth of the startup ecosystem, solidifying its reputation as a launchpad for innovation.

Chicago Venture Summit's Website

This premier 6-month program is dedicated to advancing high-potential startups in the medical technology sector. It operates within a cutting-edge prototyping facility and is supported by renowned corporate and venture investors. The accelerator emphasizes innovation in key areas such as medicine delivery, remote patient monitoring, wearables, sensing and diagnostics, and therapeutic devices. Since its inception, it has successfully supported 46 high-growth hardtech startups. The program offers substantial benefits, including an initial investment of up to $175,000 in exchange for 5-8% equity, comprising $75,000 in cash and $100,000 in services, programming, and hardware. Startups receive extensive support in areas like customer discovery, prototyping, business viability, and access to a network of mentors and investors. Additionally, participants gain a 24-month membership, ensuring ongoing access to valuable resources after the program ends. By fostering collaboration with industry leaders and creating opportunities for pilot projects, this accelerator is poised to transform innovative ideas into viable, scalable products in the MedTech field.

mHUB MedTech Accelerator's Website