Article by Ari Reith
This year’s Chicago Innovation Award Nominees are energized to solve problems that they care deeply about, which is energizing to learn from. They’re also motivated to make Chicago and the world a better place, which is motivating to read about as a young entrepreneur. The interns were able to review hundreds of applications across nine industries, with our largest proportions of applications from the business services, technology, and non-profit sectors. Yet no industry trail-blazed another across all categories of success, proving the depth and diversity within Chicago’s innovation ecosystem.
This year, the non-profit sector made up almost 10% of the total revenue of nominees. As an intern I learned about non-profits and social justice organizations that exist in nearly every zip code in the Chicagoland area, demonstrating a common and rising commitment to social service that is deep-rooted in Chicago’s culture. As a college student that cares deeply about this city and community, I feel excited to serve as an ambassador for these organizations and raise awareness of the good-hearted people striving towards a more equitable city and world.
Among our leading zip-codes, this year saw a rise in neighborhood diversity. There was a lower concentration of nominees from River North and West Loop, paving way for more applicants from the City’s edges. Innovation courses through Chicago businesses of all sizes and districts; not just within large corporations at the city center.
Not only is there diversity within the geography of this year’s nominees, but within the strengths and successes of each industry. The nominees within the business services sector created the most jobs this year, while the healthcare nominees created the most patented technology, and the financial sector raised the most capital. This variety reflects Chicago’s unique identity, where the city is a diverse collaborative of industries and individuals that share Chicago’s economic podium.
This year’s nominees bring hope to the industries they champion; the growth rates of nominees are high, and the founders are obsessed with the problems they aim to solve, adamant their innovation provides the answer. I am excited to follow the futures of this year’s nominees, and continue to learn about this city, so that one day, I can work to fill voids within Chicago economy and social network, just as the founders this year have done.
