Find workshops, info sessions, conferences, and key application dates all in one place.
This series features presentations by capital providers and information about how to access different forms of capital. The speakers for this event are Tina Hrabak, head of platform, LongJump and Brian Crump, principal, Chicago Early Growth Ventures. Tina Hrabak is head of platform at LongJump, the most active pre-seed VC investing in Chicago companies since 2021. In...
This series features presentations by capital providers and information about how to access different forms of capital. The speaker for this event is Amanda Askew, senior community lender, Allies for Community Business. Allies for Community Business supports entrepreneurs from any background to start and grow their businesses and create generational wealth for their families and communities....
This series features presentations by capital providers and information about how to access different forms of capital. This speaker for this event is Mike McCracken, senior vice president, Hyde Park Bank/Beverly Bank (Wintrust). Beverly Bank & Trust provides Illinois with the resources of a big bank while maintaining the personalized service of a true local community...
Entrepreneurs and small business teams don't have time—or money—to waste. These four questions show up again and again in small businesses: ● “How do we make progress when the work feels too big?” ● “How do we stay focused when everything feels urgent?” ● “How do we stay aligned when juggling roles?” ● “How do...
The Polsky Exchange's On Deck Pitch is a Small Business Development Center initiative designed to help entrepreneurs develop and refine their pitching skills and prepare to effectively present their businesses to potential investors or lenders. Join as an observer to watch small businesses pitch. Your feedback on the various pitches will be valuable.
Celebrate SBDC Day with a special breakfast spotlight honoring the entrepreneurs we proudly serve. This engaging morning event will bring together SBDC clients, partners, and community stakeholders for networking, inspiration, and connection over breakfast. The highlight of the program will feature two SBDC client as guest speakers who will share their entrepreneurial journeys, challenges, and...
Entrepreneurs who have been operating their businesses, as well as those with brand-new ideas and ventures, are welcome to work with licensed attorneys to establish their legal Illinois entities. Attorneys will advise on entity choice and help founders prepare organization or incorporation filings for the Illinois Secretary of State. The Polsky Exchange is hosting this...
This one-hour, high-energy keynote is designed for entrepreneurs who feel left behind by apps, AI, and social media. You’ll get a simple tech-and-AI game plan, a focused tool stack, and a 2026 “new work bag” to boost productivity, protect clients, and grow income—without adding chaos. Some mornings, you might feel like you need three pairs...
This month's Exchange member breakfast brings together our community of entrepreneurs and innovators for an exchange of ideas, networking, and collaboration. Connect with fellow members, share insights, and foster meaningful connections within the Polsky Exchange network. Guest Speaker: Kevin P. Davenport, founder, The Ideal Candidate Kevin P. Davenport is founder and CEO of The Ideal...
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: The types of business entities and factors that might cause a founder to choose one type of entity over another; How to select a jurisdiction in which to form an...
Understand how 2026 e-commerce trends, consumer behavior, technology, and forecasts can drive growth, scale, and profitability for your business. Learn what’s changing in the industry and how to position your company to succeed. Learn more about the Polsky Exchange E-Commerce Growth Program >>
This month's Exchange member breakfast aims to bring together our community of entrepreneurs and innovators in the e-commerce and retail industry for an exchange of ideas, networking, and collaboration. It's an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow members, share insights, and foster meaningful connections within the Polsky Exchange network. Guest Speaker: Melinda Herron, CEO of...