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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261020T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261020T190000
DTSTAMP:20261006T150602Z
CREATED:20260914T192729Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261006T150602Z
UID:10002377-1792515600-1792522800@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Info Session and Kickoff (Harper): New Venture Challenge (NVC)
DESCRIPTION:Please join us for a kickoff for the 31st annual Edward L. Kaplan\, ’71\, New Venture Challenge. \nThis session will introduce students to one of UChicago’s premier startup accelerator programs. Attendees will learn more about the application process\, program structure\, and resources available throughout the competition. \n\n5:00 – 5:30 pm CT – Faculty Presentation\n5:30 – 6:30 pm CT – NVC Alumni Panel and Q&A\n\nMahesh Kumar\, Nestera Health\nClaire Chen\, CareLumi\nJustin Hoot\, SlideFlow Labs\n\n\n6:30 – 7:00 pm CT – Team Building and Networking
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/info-session-and-kickoff-harper-new-venture-challenge-nvc/
LOCATION:Charles M. Harper Center\, 5807 S Woodlawn Ave\, C-25\, Chicago\, Illinois 60637\, 5807 S Woodlawn Ave\, Chicago\, Illinois\, Chicago\, United States
CATEGORIES:Information session
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261021T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261021T200000
DTSTAMP:20261015T185620Z
CREATED:20261009T161616Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261015T185620Z
UID:10002401-1792609200-1792612800@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Clean Energy Transition: Is it Inevitable?
DESCRIPTION:The clean energy transition is often described as unstoppable — driven by falling costs\, improving technology\, and market momentum that no policy shift can reverse. But is that confidence warranted? Or does the pace and shape of the transition still hinge on decisions being made right now? \nJoin us for a conversation with two leaders who have spent decades building the industry from the inside.\nThis event is for Chicago Booth MBA and MiM/MiF students only. \nTom Starrs is VP of Government and Public Affairs at EDP Renewables North America and chair of the Solar Energy Industries Association board. Across more than 25 years in solar and renewables\, he has held senior market strategy and policy roles at SunPower\, Iberdrola Renewables\, and Schott Solar\, and earned a PhD and JD from UC Berkeley. \nJulie Blunden is an obvious champion at Obvious Ventures and a Stanford GSB MBA with more than 35 years of experience commercializing companies that reshape energy markets. She was most recently COO of Plus Power\, which she helped grow into an operating independent power producer with nine plants and over $2 billion in financing\, and previously CCO of EVgo\, with leadership roles at SunPower and Green Mountain Energy. \nJulie and Tom will each open with brief framing remarks\, then the bulk of the session is open discussion. Expect candid talk about where capital is actually flowing\, which business models hold up under policy uncertainty\, and how they’ve made career bets in a sector that keeps reinventing itself. \nCome with questions and ready to discuss.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/clean-energy-transition-is-it-inevitable/
LOCATION:Gleacher Center\, Classroom 208\n450 Cityfront Plaza Dr\, Chicago\, Illinois 60611\, 450 Cityfront Plaza Dr\, Chicago\, Illinois\, Illinois 60611\, United States
CATEGORIES:Workshop / Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261022T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261022T120000
DTSTAMP:20260903T175457Z
CREATED:20260902T181647Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260903T175457Z
UID:10002361-1792663200-1792670400@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Business Acumen: Show Up and Stand Out – Networking\, Referrals\, and Community
DESCRIPTION:Relationships drive revenue\, but most small business owners network reactively\, showing up when they need something rather than building the kind of consistent visibility that generates referrals and opens doors over time. \nThis session helps members develop an intentional networking strategy and build referral pipelines that work without feeling transactional. The speakers will address how AI is changing the networking landscape\, from AI-assisted LinkedIn outreach and follow-up systems to tools that help members track relationships and stay top of mind with the right people. \nLearning outcomes: \n\nDefine your networking strategy: who you need to know\, where they are\, and how to get in front of them\nBuild a simple referral system that generates consistent introductions from your existing network\nLeave with a 90-day visibility plan and at least three warm connections made in the room
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/business-acumen-show-up-and-stand-out-networking-referrals-and-community/
LOCATION:Polsky Exchange North\, 1452 E 53rd St\, Chicago\, Illinois 60615\, 1452 E 53rd St\, Chicago\, Illinois\, Illinois 60615\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261022T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261022T133000
DTSTAMP:20261008T204508Z
CREATED:20261008T204508Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T204508Z
UID:10002400-1792668600-1792675800@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:EIR/IIR In-Person Advising
DESCRIPTION:Join the Polsky Center’s entrepreneurs-in-residence (EIR) and investors-in-residence (IIR) for in-person advising. Fresh coffee and pastries will be provided. \nThe EIRs and IIRs below will be available. Cass Ziegel and Dipa Mehta will be hosting "Ask Me Anything" group discussions and Mus Chagal will facilitate a group discussion on "From Prototype to Product." Everyone else will be available for 1 on 1 advisory sessions. \nEntrepreneurs in Residence (EIRs): \n\n  Mus Chagal is a serial entrepreneur\, investor\, and a long-time judge-mentor for several NVC tracks advising numerous early stage companies.\n  Mike Froy has spent his career helping grow and protect businesses around the world. Mike is also an angel investor and advisor to start-ups.\n  Thomas Jonas is the Co-Founder of the Fynder Group\, a Chicago-based biotech company with activities in proteins\, food\, pharmaceuticals and textile\, all derived from the discovery on NASA-sponsored research of an extremophile micro-organism in the volcanic springs of Yellowstone National Park\n  Chris Sell is the Cofounder of GrowthLoop – an AI powered software that leverages the data cloud to orchestrate digital marketing.\n\nInvestors in Residence (IIRs): \n\n  Joe McIlhattan is a Principal at Periscope Equity\, a lower middle market private equity firm in Chicago focused on partnering with founder-owned tech-enabled businesses services companies across a variety of mission critical sectors. He began his career as a management consultant at EY.\n  Dipa Mehta is a Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Valeo Ventures. Valeo is the exclusive investment manager for Cobalt Ventures\, the strategic venture capital arm of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City. She sits on the boards of Bicycle Health\, Handspring Health\, MedArrive\, OncoHealth\, and Spectrum.AI. Valeo is building a new venture capital fund partnering with hospital systems and health plans to create bespoke corporate venturing vehicles.\n  Tony Wilkins wrote his first early stage check at age 35 in 1991\, and is passionate about alternative perspectives and engineering serendipity in making things happen. He is currently an executive coach and private investor with Standing Oaks Venture Partners.\n  Cass Ziegel is a Principal at ParkerGale Capital\, a small private equity firm that buys profitable technology companies headquartered in Chicago.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/eir-iir-in-person-advising/
LOCATION:Polsky Center @ Chicago Booth\n5807 S Woodlawn Ave\, Chicago\, Illinois 60637\, 5807 S Woodlawn Ave\, Chicago\, Illinois\, United States
CATEGORIES:Other
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261022T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261022T180000
DTSTAMP:20260903T175620Z
CREATED:20260902T181411Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260903T175620Z
UID:10002360-1792688400-1792692000@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) Workshop: Exploring ETA Paths
DESCRIPTION:Join Chicago Booth adjunct faculty member and partner at Futaleufu Partners\, Jason Jackson\, for a workshop on exploring the various types of entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA) search paths. \nLearn the risks\, rewards\, and challenges of the different paths\, and discover the new journeys emerging in the ETA community.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/entrepreneurship-through-acquisition-eta-workshop-exploring-the-eta-paths/
CATEGORIES:Workshop / Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261023T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261023T150000
DTSTAMP:20260929T191641Z
CREATED:20260925T191256Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T191641Z
UID:10002391-1792767600-1792767600@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Application Deadline: Innovation Fund Associates (IFA) Program
DESCRIPTION:The Innovation Fund Associates (IFA) program is structured as a science-focused venture capital apprenticeship\, where associates learn-by-doing as part of an interdisciplinary team performing due diligence on innovative ventures coming out of the UChicago ecosystem. \nIFAs deep dive in one investment opportunity per cycle through the George Shultz Innovation Fund and get a close-up look at the commercialization process and what it takes to move a technology from the lab into the real world. \nThe IFA program accepts students from across the university. Undergraduate and graduate students and postdocs interested in venture capital and science commercialization are encouraged to apply.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/application-deadline-innovation-fund-associates-ifa-program/
CATEGORIES:Deadline
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261024T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261024T130000
DTSTAMP:20260903T175645Z
CREATED:20260902T181815Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260903T175645Z
UID:10002362-1792839600-1792846800@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) Workshop: Finding the Right Partner for Your ETA Journey
DESCRIPTION:If you are considering a partnered entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA) search\, this workshop is for you. \nJoin Keziah Robinson as she walks you through choosing the right partner for your search based on your own strengths and weaknesses. \n\nPreparing You for Partnership. Starting a business partnership starts long before you say “I do”—personal and professional. Participants will leave with clearer insight into their partnership style and what they truly need to thrive.\nNavigating Conflict. Great partnerships aren’t conflict-free\, but they manage conflict well. This session uncovers the most common expressions of tension between founders and partners\, from “blame and shame” to stonewalling and defensiveness. We’ll introduce practical frameworks and tools to navigate conflict productively.\nLaying the Groundwork. Participants will also engage in an initial “ways of partnering” exercise to clarify how they want to work together. You’ll leave with actionable strategies to build durable\, resilient relationships.\n\nKeziah Robinson\, CFA\, is a business strategist\, executive coach\, and investor with over 20 years of experience working with leaders\, business owners\, and founders across diverse industries. She is also the founding executive coach for the Perlman ETA Fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania and serves as coach in residence for BasisTech\, a Boston-area investment accelerator focused on AI and business intelligence. Previously\, Keziah held investment research roles at the Capital Group Companies and Fidelity Investments. She earned an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and a BS in Physics from Stanford University.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/entrepreneurship-through-acquisition-eta-workshop-finding-the-right-partner-for-your-eta-journey/
LOCATION:Gleacher Center\, 450 Cityfront Plaza Dr\, 400\, Chicago\, Illinois 60611\, 450 Cityfront Plaza Dr\, Chicago\, Illinois\, Chicago\, United States
CATEGORIES:Workshop / Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261024T121500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261024T131500
DTSTAMP:20260918T150033Z
CREATED:20260914T192835Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260918T150033Z
UID:10002378-1792844100-1792847700@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Info Session and Kickoff (Gleacher): New Venture Challenge (NVC)
DESCRIPTION:Please join us for the kickoff of the 31st annual Edward L. Kaplan\, ’71\, New Venture Challenge. This session will introduce students to one of UChicago’s premier startup accelerator programs. Attendees will learn more about the application process\, program structure\, and resources available throughout the competition.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/info-session-and-kickoff-gleacher-new-venture-challenge-nvc/
LOCATION:Gleacher Center\, 450 Cityfront Plaza Dr\, room 100\, Chicago\, Illinois 60611\, 450 Cityfront Plaza Dr\, Chicago\, Illinois\, Chicago\, United States
CATEGORIES:Information session
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261026T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261026T150000
DTSTAMP:20260918T202101Z
CREATED:20260918T195359Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260918T202101Z
UID:10002385-1793026800-1793026800@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Application Deadline (Students): Small Business Financial Fundamentals Program (2027 Winter Cohort)
DESCRIPTION:The Polsky Center seeks highly motivated Chicago Booth students looking to gain experience in business finance consulting by helping clients grow profitable businesses and manage their finances. \nQualifications and requirements include: \n// Experience in finance\, business management\, entrepreneurship\, small business\, social impact via economic growth in an urban setting\, and/or consulting; \n// Previous finance or accounting-related experience; \n// Commitment to attend all virtual weekly classroom sessions\, weekly virtual team meetings with clients\, and an in-person gathering at the start and close of the program; \n// Capacity to commit 5–10 hours per week for nine weeks; \n// Strong attention to detail and ability to be a team player. \nThe deadline to apply is Monday\, October 26\, at 3:00 p.m. CST. If you need any assistance or clarification while completing the application\, please contact Isra Omar at isra.omar@chicagobooth.edu. Inquiries received by 9:00 a.m. on Friday\, October 23\, will be addressed before the deadline.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/application-deadline-students-small-business-financial-fundamentals-program-2027-winter-cohort/
CATEGORIES:Deadline
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261028T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261028T183000
DTSTAMP:20260917T142757Z
CREATED:20260902T182042Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260917T142757Z
UID:10002364-1793206800-1793212200@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Polsky Center College Founders Forum
DESCRIPTION:Join us at our monthly meetup for College founders and the founder-curious. This is a recurring space to meet other student builders\, learn about entrepreneurship\, and share what you’re working on.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/polsky-center-college-founders-forum/
LOCATION:Charles M. Harper Center\, 5807 S Woodlawn Ave\, C01\, Chicago\, Illinois 60637\, 5807 S Woodlawn Ave\, Chicago\, Illinois\, Chicago\, United States
CATEGORIES:Other,Workshop / Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261029T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261029T120000
DTSTAMP:20260903T180034Z
CREATED:20260902T183146Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260903T180034Z
UID:10002365-1793268000-1793275200@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Business Acumen: B2B Growth – Finding Partners\, Landing Contracts
DESCRIPTION:This session covers the full business-to business (B2B) business development arc: from defining your ideal organizational client and building a pipeline to navigating procurement processes and negotiating partnership agreements. \nSpeakers will address how AI is changing B2B sales\, from using AI to research prospects and personalize outreach at scale to AI-assisted contract review and customer relationship management (CRM) tools that help small businesses manage complex sales cycles. \nLearning outcomes: \n\nDefine your ideal B2B client profile and identify 10 target organizations to pursue this quarter\nUnderstand how purchasing and procurement decisions are made inside midsize and large organizations\nLeave with a simple outreach sequence and partnership pitch you can deploy immediately
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/business-acumen-b2b-growth-finding-partners-landing-contracts/
LOCATION:Polsky Exchange North\, 1452 E 53rd St\, Chicago\, Illinois 60615\, 1452 E 53rd St\, Chicago\, Illinois\, Illinois 60615\, United States
CATEGORIES:Workshop / Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261029T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261029T130000
DTSTAMP:20260921T183143Z
CREATED:20260917T205551Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260921T183143Z
UID:10002382-1793275200-1793278800@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Entrepreneurship Essentials (E2): Incorporation 101 for Startups with Scott Smedresman
DESCRIPTION:Join the Polsky Center and Scott Smedresman\, partner at Brown Rudnick LLP\, for an informative workshop on the fundamentals of incorporation for startups. \nIn this session\, Scott will break down the key elements of incorporation from a legal perspective\, diving into topics such as selecting the right type of business entity for your company\, choosing a jurisdiction in which to incorporate\, and how to appropriately structure the relationships among founders and with the company.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/entrepreneurship-essentials-e2-incorporation-101-for-startups-with-scott-smedresman/
CATEGORIES:Workshop / Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261029T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261029T140000
DTSTAMP:20260928T205924Z
CREATED:20260928T150635Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260928T205924Z
UID:10002394-1793278800-1793282400@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Info Session: George Shultz Innovation Fund
DESCRIPTION:The George Shultz Innovation Fund provides up to $250\,000 in investment funding to early-stage science-based\, deep-tech\, and AI ventures spinning out of the University of Chicago. \nBeyond capital\, finalists receive hands-on support to validate their market\, sharpen their commercial path\, strengthen their investor pitch\, and prepare for diligence. \nFunding and support are designed to advance commercialization and position ventures for their next round of outside investment.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/info-session-george-shultz-innovation-fund-gsif/
CATEGORIES:Information session
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261030T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261030T170000
DTSTAMP:20260908T212222Z
CREATED:20260902T183419Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260908T212222Z
UID:10002366-1793347200-1793379600@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:13th Annual Booth-Kellogg Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition Conference
DESCRIPTION:The ETA Group at Chicago Booth\, the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation\, and the Kellogg Innovation & Entrepreneurship Initiative are delighted to host the 13th Annual Booth-Kellogg Entrepreneurship through Acquisition (ETA) Conference. \nThe Booth-Kellogg ETA Conference is an annual event that brings together search fund entrepreneurs\, investors\, MBA students\, faculty\, and other participants in the ETA ecosystem to meet one another and share insights into this rapidly growing area.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/13th-annual-booth-kellogg-entrepreneurship-through-acquisition-conference/
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency Chicago\, 151 E Wacker Dr\, Grand Ballroom\, Chicago\, Illinois 60601\, 151 E Wacker Dr\, Chicago\, Illinois\, Chicago\, United States
CATEGORIES:Speaker / Conference
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261030T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261030T150000
DTSTAMP:20261007T150840Z
CREATED:20260902T183508Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261007T150840Z
UID:10002367-1793372400-1793372400@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Application Deadline: Water Street Private Equity Case Challenge (PECC)
DESCRIPTION:The Water Street Private Equity Case Challenge (PECC) is a case competition that enables teams from Chicago Booth to assess the potential for a leveraged buyout of a publicly listed company. \nTo participate\, Chicago Booth students must form teams\, select from a list of case options\, and apply with a case and financial model.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/application-deadline-water-street-private-equity-case-challenge-pecc-2/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261102T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261102T130000
DTSTAMP:20260929T170139Z
CREATED:20260909T200445Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T170139Z
UID:10002372-1793620800-1793624400@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Investing Essentials: How to Build a Strong Investment Thesis
DESCRIPTION:The Polsky Center Investor-in-Residence Duane Jackson\, founder and managing partner of Author Capital Partners\, will lead a workshop focused on building a strong investment thesis. \nTopics include the foundations of an investment thesis\, sources to build and refine a thesis\, and actionable outputs. \nThis workshop will also discuss how a team may approach developing a proposal and thesis as it relates to the Booth Investment Thesis Challenge (BITC). \nIn-person attendance and active participation are encouraged.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/investing-essentials-how-to-build-a-strong-investment-thesis-4/
LOCATION:Charles M. Harper Center\, 5807 S Woodlawn Ave\, C01\, Chicago\, Illinois 60637\, 5807 S Woodlawn Ave\, Chicago\, Illinois\, Chicago\, United States
CATEGORIES:Workshop / Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261103T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261103T150000
DTSTAMP:20261007T200939Z
CREATED:20261007T200448Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261007T200939Z
UID:10002398-1793718000-1793718000@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Application Deadline: College New Venture Challenge (CNVC)
DESCRIPTION:Applications for the College New Venture Challenge are due by November 3 at 3:00 p.m. CST. \nThe College New Venture Challenge (CNVC) is a track of the New Venture Challenge program dedicated to University of Chicago College students. All teams accepted into the CNVC Phase II are eligible to enroll in the CNVC class\, which is offered in the Winter quarter through Chicago Booth. \nThe program has launched incredible undergraduate businesses including Cubii\, Sokowatch\, MoneyThink\, Quevos\, and Fronen.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/application-deadline-college-new-venture-challenge-cnvc/
CATEGORIES:Deadline
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261103T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261103T160000
DTSTAMP:20261020T205914Z
CREATED:20261020T204455Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261020T205914Z
UID:10002410-1793721600-1793721600@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Application Deadline: South Side Business Development Internship (Students)
DESCRIPTION:The South Side Business Development Internship provides an opportunity for University of Chicago College students to gain valuable consulting experience working on projects with local community businesses. \nThe program pairs a Polsky Exchange member business with students for quarter-long projects in customer discovery\, social media management\, and AI implementation. \nAll full-time College students at the University of Chicago are eligible; students in UChicago graduate programs are not. \nPreference is given to: \n\nStudents with experience in social media marketing\, customer discovery\, and AI implementation.\nStudents with interest in community businesses and small business operations.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/application-deadline-south-side-business-development-internship-students/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261105T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261105T113000
DTSTAMP:20261001T190702Z
CREATED:20261001T190643Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261001T190702Z
UID:10002396-1793872800-1793878200@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Choosing the Right Entity for your Business
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a workshop that explores options and the process of incorporation for startups.​Facilitator: Beth Kregor\, IJ Clinic Director​This workshop will cover:​1. The types of business entities and factors that might cause a founder to choose one type of entity over another;​2. How to select a jurisdiction in which to form an entity;​3. The internal negotiations that should take place amongst founders in order to appropriately constitute the entity and establish each founder’s relationship between themselves and the entity; and​4. The nuts and bolts of the formation process.​You can prepare for this session by watching this pre-recorded session of our Entrepreneurship Essentials (E2) Series: Legal Workshop – Incorporation 101 with Emily Underwood.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/choosing-the-right-entity-for-your-business/
LOCATION:Polsky Exchange North\n1452 E 53rd St\, Chicago\, Illinois 60615\, 1452 E 53rd St\, Chicago\, Illinois\, United States
CATEGORIES:Workshop / Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261105T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261105T130000
DTSTAMP:20260903T180700Z
CREATED:20260902T183700Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260903T180700Z
UID:10002368-1793880000-1793883600@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Investing Essentials: Venture Capital (VC) Interview Prep
DESCRIPTION:Polsky Center Investor-in-Residence Dipa Mehta\, MBA ‘12\, cofounder and managing partner\, Valeo Ventures\, covers the process of interviewing and building out your thesis and story for roles in venture capital. \nShe explores how best to present your background\, your career interests\, and your narrative when applying for internships and full-time roles in venture capital.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/investing-essentials-vc-interview-prep-3/
LOCATION:Charles M. Harper Center\, 5807 S Woodlawn Ave\, C01\, Chicago\, Illinois 60637\, 5807 S Woodlawn Ave\, Chicago\, Illinois\, Chicago\, United States
CATEGORIES:Workshop / Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261105T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261105T130000
DTSTAMP:20260921T183253Z
CREATED:20260917T205644Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260921T183253Z
UID:10002383-1793880000-1793883600@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Entrepreneurship Essentials (E2): Building a Pitch Deck with Melissa Harris
DESCRIPTION:Join the Polsky Center and Entrepreneur-in-Residence Melissa Harris\, MBA ’16\, for an informative workshop on how to build a pitchdeck. \nA great pitchdeck is more than a collection of slides. It’s a strategic story about your vision\, your market\, and the opportunity you’re creating. This workshop will teach you how to craft an investor-ready pitchdeck that is clear\, compelling\, and persuasive.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/entrepreneurship-essentials-e2-building-a-pitch-deck-with-melissa-harris/
CATEGORIES:Workshop / Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261107T121500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261107T131500
DTSTAMP:20260903T180752Z
CREATED:20260902T183956Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260903T180752Z
UID:10002369-1794053700-1794057300@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Investing Essentials: Private Equity (PE) Interview Prep for Career Changers
DESCRIPTION:Chicago Booth Adjunct Professor of Entrepreneurship and Faculty Advisor to the Svider Private Equity Program\, Chris McGowan\, will present on and discuss the changing PE landscape and the necessary skills for career changers focused on a transition into PE. \nChris McGowan is the general partner of CJM Ventures (CJMV)\, a Chicago growth equity and private equity investment firm. McGowan’s private equity career began 29 years ago with AEA Investors in New York City\, after earning an undergraduate degree in theoretical mathematics from Columbia University’s College of Arts and Sciences\, and following two years of mergers and acquisitions training at Morgan Stanley. After completing an MBA at Harvard Business School\, he joined Madison Dearborn Partners (MDP)\, where he co-headed their basic industries practice for the last five years of his 12-year career there. \nAt MDP\, he oversaw more than $2 billion of equity investments focused on buyouts and growth equity globally in the industrial\, consumer\, and energy and power sectors. In 2011\, with the help of MDP leadership and mentors\, McGowan formed CJMV\, an investment firm focused on buyouts and growth equity investments in companies located near Chicago and London. McGowan is an active angel investor and currently serves as chairman of the limited partner advisory committee for Hyde Park Venture Partners Fund I (and a member of Fund II\, III and IV’s boards)\, and as chairman of the advisory board for Valley Growth Ventures\, and was formerly on the board of directors and portfolio advisory board of Hyde Park Angels. \nThis workshop is designed for Chicago Booth MBA students only.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/investing-essentials-private-equity-pe-interview-prep-for-career-changers-3/
CATEGORIES:Information session
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261109T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261109T150000
DTSTAMP:20261007T202644Z
CREATED:20260918T195556Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261007T202644Z
UID:10002386-1794236400-1794236400@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Application Deadline (Client): Small Business Financial Fundamentals (2027 Winter Cohort)
DESCRIPTION:Small Business Financial Fundamentals begins with a 10-week intensive program occurring between January and March 2027 for South or West Side businesses to receive tailored technical assistance and consultation related to financial capital pathways and preparedness\, business finance education\, and coaching. \nSouth and West Side business owners with annual revenues approximately between $250\,000 and $500\,000 who are actively seeking to secure capital through a bank loan or other fundraising may apply. Business owners will also receive guidance on improving their financial reporting and using financial statements to make strategic decisions. \nParticipants should be: \n// ready to make shifts in their businesses to achieve greater success.\n// prepared to spend time working on their businesses\, and not just in their businesses\, i.e. be able to step away from daily operations to grow the business.\n// able to attend an in-person gathering at the start and close of the program.\n// have a set of financial statements\, such as income statement\, balance sheet\, and statement of cash flows. The minimum requirement for participation is a P&L (income) statement; assistance is available to create one if needed.\n// commit to attend all virtual sessions. \nThe deadline to apply is Monday\, November 9\, at 3:00 p.m. CST. If you need any assistance or clarification while completing the application\, please contact Isra Omar at isra.omar@chicagobooth.edu. Inquiries received by 9:00 a.m. on Friday\, November 6\, will be addressed before the deadline.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/application-deadline-client-small-business-financial-fundamentals-2027-winter-cohort/
CATEGORIES:Deadline
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261109T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261109T190000
DTSTAMP:20261014T162732Z
CREATED:20261014T162732Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T162732Z
UID:10002402-1794243600-1794250800@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:What Energy Needs Next: Opportunities In Energy Transition
DESCRIPTION:The energy transition is one of the largest capital reallocations in modern history — and it needs people. Founders to build the companies\, investors to fund them\, and operators to scale what works. The question is where the real openings are right now. \nJoin us for a conversation with three leaders working on the transition from very different vantage points: an entrepreneur building a new company\, an investor deciding where capital goes\, and an industry executive operating at scale. Each will share their read on which problems are solvable today\, which are still waiting on technology or policy\, and where the talent gaps are widest. \nCome if you’re exploring a career in energy\, sitting on a venture idea\, or simply curious about what the transition actually looks like from the inside. No background in energy required\, just bring your questions.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/what-energy-needs-next-opportunities-in-energy-transition/
LOCATION:Charles M. Harper Center\, C25\n5807 S Woodlawn Ave\, Chicago\, Illinois 60637\, 5807 S Woodlawn Ave\, Chicago\, Illinois\, Illinois 60637\, United States
CATEGORIES:Information session,Speaker / Conference,Workshop / Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T130000
DTSTAMP:20260921T182927Z
CREATED:20260917T205736Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260921T182927Z
UID:10002384-1794312000-1794315600@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Entrepreneurship Essentials (E2): Customer Discovery for Startups with Melissa Byrn
DESCRIPTION:Join the Polsky Center and Melissa Byrn\, Assistant Dean for Clinical Research at the University of Chicago Biological Sciences Division\, for an informative workshop on early stage customer discovery for startups. Understanding your future customers’ values\, pain points\, and current solution(s) is critical to ensuring that your product or service will be adopted by your customers when it hits the market. You’ll leave with practical frameworks for conducting effective customer interviews and turning what you learn into insights that sharpen your product and go-to-market strategy.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/entrepreneurship-essentials-e2-customer-discovery-for-startups-with-melissa-byrn/
CATEGORIES:Workshop / Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261112T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261112T130000
DTSTAMP:20261016T145611Z
CREATED:20261016T145611Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261016T145611Z
UID:10002403-1794484800-1794488400@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Driving Growth: A Speaker Series on Operating in a Private Equity and Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (PE/ETA) Context: Healthcare Operations
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an engaging session in the “Driving Growth” series\, focusing on strategies for operating and scaling businesses within the private equity (PE) and entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA) landscape. \nOur featured speaker for the session is Rachel Green\, CEO of TEAM Services Group. Green will share her road to becoming a CEO in healthcare and the things she has learned from the nearly 10-year operating experience she has gained.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/driving-growth-a-speaker-series-on-operating-in-a-private-equity-and-entrepreneurship-through-acquisition-pe-eta-context-healthcare-operations/
LOCATION:Charles M. Harper Center\, C05\n5807 S Woodlawn Ave\, Chicago\, Illinois 60637\, 5807 S Woodlawn Ave\, Chicago\, Illinois\, Illinois 60637\, United States
CATEGORIES:Workshop / Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261117T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261117T130000
DTSTAMP:20260903T180951Z
CREATED:20260902T184135Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260903T180951Z
UID:10002370-1794916800-1794920400@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Investing Essentials: Fireside Chat with a First-Year Venture Capitalist
DESCRIPTION:Join Polsky Center Entrepreneur-in-Residence Doug Monieson\, MBA ’89\, and Isha Mehrotra in a fireside chat about being a first-year venture capitalist. \nMehrotra is drawn to deeply technical early-stage software and AI teams that are building at the frontier\, backing founders who turn cutting-edge technology into durable products. Her experiences as an engineer and entrepreneur define how she partners with founders at Uncork: with empathy for the hard moments\, conviction in the long game\, and hands-on support when things move unpredictably. \nIsha earned a BS in computer science with honors and an MBA from the University of Chicago\, where she was a Siebel Scholar and a recipient of the Hyde Park Angels Venture Capital Award.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/investing-essentials-fireside-chat-with-a-first-year-venture-capitalist-3/
CATEGORIES:Workshop / Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261118T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261118T183000
DTSTAMP:20261019T202655Z
CREATED:20261019T202655Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261019T202655Z
UID:10002405-1795021200-1795026600@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Polsky Center College Founders Forum
DESCRIPTION:Join us at our monthly meetup for College founders and the founder-curious. This is a recurring space to meet other student builders\, learn about entrepreneurship\, and share what you’re working on.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/polsky-center-college-founders-forum-2/
LOCATION:Charles M. Harper Center\, C01\n5807 S Woodlawn Ave\, Chicago\, Illinois 60637\, 5807 S Woodlawn Ave\, Chicago\, Illinois\, Illinois 60637\, United States
CATEGORIES:Other,Workshop / Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261119T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261119T120000
DTSTAMP:20261007T203529Z
CREATED:20261007T203321Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261007T203529Z
UID:10002399-1795082400-1795089600@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Business Acumen Series: Q&A on AI Adoption for Small Business Operations
DESCRIPTION:Have questions about AI and how it could work for your business? Bring them to this session built around you. \nThis is not your typical workshop. While we’ll kick things off with a 30-minute presentation on how small business owners are using AI to streamline operations\, save time\, and work smarter\, the real value is in the room. \nWe’re dedicating 90 minutes to open Q&A\, so come prepared with your questions\, your challenges\, and your curiosity. \nWhether you’re wondering where to start\, what tools are worth trying\, or how to make AI work for your specific industry\, this is your chance to get real answers in a low-pressure\, conversational setting. No tech experience is needed. \nCome ready to ask: \n\nHow do I get started with AI in my business?\nWhich tools make sense for what I do?\nWhat are other business owners using AI for?\nIs AI something I can realistically afford and manage on my own?\nHow do I use AI safely with my customer information?\n\nHow the session is structured: \n\nFirst 30 minutes — presentation: AI in everyday business operations\nNext 90 minutes — open Q&A
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/business-acumen-series-qa-on-ai-adoption-for-small-business-operations/
LOCATION:Polsky Exchange North\n1452 E 53rd St\, Chicago\, Illinois 60615\, 1452 E 53rd St\, Chicago\, Illinois\, United States
CATEGORIES:Workshop / Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261120T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261120T150000
DTSTAMP:20261015T174156Z
CREATED:20260922T173432Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261015T174156Z
UID:10002332-1795186800-1795186800@polsky.uchicago.edu
SUMMARY:Application Deadline: Q2B26 x Chicago Quantum Summit Pitch Competition
DESCRIPTION:Apply now for the Q2B26 x Chicago Quantum Summit pitch competition! \nDuality is calling all early-stage quantum startups: We invite you to apply for the Q2B26 x Chicago Quantum Summit Pitch Competition\, an exclusive opportunity to showcase your startup on a global stage on December 8th at the Chicago Marriott Marquis. Apply now to fast-track your quantum venture!  \nPrize Pool  \nThe total prize pool is $150\,000 \n\nFirst place: $100K ($50K SAFE investment\, 50K non-dilutive)\nSecond place: $50K (non-dilutive)\n\nWho Can Apply \n\nEarly-stage startups developing quantum technologies or quantum-enabled solutions\nPre-seed or seed stage\, or less than $5M USD raised to date\n\nFinalist Perks \nUp to 10 startups will be selected to pitch live at Q2B26 in Chicago. Finalists will receive:  \n\nA Q2B26 full conference pass (3 days\, Dec 8–10)\nExposure to hundreds of Quantum VCs and investors\, innovators\, and industry leaders\nOpportunity to pitch in front of a dedicated jury and the global audience at Q2B26\n\nKey Dates \n\nApplication Deadline: November 20\, 2026\nFinalists will be selected by November 30\, 2026\n\nSponsors: The University of Chicago’s Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and P33\, with support from TechRise \nAbout TechRise: TechRise launched in 2021 as a livestream pitch competition designed to keep Chicago’s entrepreneurial spirit alive. Today\, it has evolved into a high-impact platform that provides founders with capital\, connections\, and visibility to help move their businesses forward. As part of P33’s growing focus on accelerating quantum commercialization\, TechRise will support the Q2B Quantum Startup Pitch Competition\, extending its proven model into one of the world’s most promising emerging industries.
URL:https://polsky.uchicago.edu/event/application-deadline-q2b26-x-chicago-quantum-summit-pitch-competition-2/
CATEGORIES:Competition / Pitch Event
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END:VCALENDAR