TechRise Chicago

TechRise Chicago is a collaborative initiative dedicated to empowering Black and Latinx tech founders in the Chicago area. Powered by P33 and in partnership with Verizon, 1871, investors, incubators, community leaders, and startup founders, TechRise offers a comprehensive ecosystem that provides capital, networks, and knowledge to entrepreneurs at every stage of their business journey. The organization hosts weekly virtual pitch competitions from April through November, awarding non-dilutive grants ranging from $25,000 to $50,000, culminating in a grand prize of $100,000. These competitions are open to founders based in the Chicago area who identify as being from historically socially or economically disadvantaged demographics, with their businesses in the early stages of development. In 2024, TechRise expanded its reach by launching a neighborhood series focused on the South and West sides of Chicago, hosting competitions in North Lawndale, Little Village, and Englewood, with plans to extend to Humboldt Park and Greater Grand Crossing in 2025. Through these initiatives, TechRise Chicago aims to bridge the digital divide and foster a more inclusive and equitable tech ecosystem in the region. By providing resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities, TechRise plays a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of diverse tech leaders and innovators in Chicago.