Accelerate careers and networks for Black and Latine innovators
Next cohort starts
July 13
Cohort length
6 Months
application deadline
May 1
To ensure more innovators have the support and connections needed to rise, The Ladder, launched in 2022, run by Chicago Innovation in partnership with i.c.stars, provides 1:1 mentorship, community, and career acceleration to Black and Latine innovators.
By the numbers
Program Impact
Black and Latine innovators participated to date
%
Reported being closer to their goals than when the 6 months started
Top areas of impact in 2025
Where Participants Felt in Most
Career & Leadership Advancement
- Promotion and new job opportunities
- Stronger resumes and applications
Entrepreneurial Growth
- Clearer strategic direction
- Increased access to founder resources and funding opportunities
Expanded Networks & Social Capital
- Impactful relationships built within the cohort
- Access to the larger Chicago Innovation Ecosystem through events and programming
Increased Confidence & Clarity
- Readiness to take on higher roles
- Telling your story and pitching yourself
Participant experience
What to Expect
A dedicated mentor chosen to support your goals
Curated workshops and cohort-wide networking opportunities
Access to monthly Chicago Innovation events while in the cohort
Connections and resources across the broader innovation ecosystem
Advisory board
Supported by Leaders Who Believe in You
Shannon Claiborne
Chicago Youth Centers; Community Collective LLC, Sr. Director of Strategic Initiatives; Founder
Mario Gonzalez
Perspectives Charter Schools, Director of Operations, Events, and Partnerships
Robert Hazzard Jr.
The Hazzard Group, Managing Director
Brian Sykes
ISPro Academy, Co-Founder
Examples of current & past mentors
Patricia Amaro
Blue Cross Blue Shields of Illinois Director — Talent Acquisition
Carlos R Cardenas
Wintrust; SVP Group Manager
Rosie Drumgoole
Chicago Cares, CEO
Jeffery Beckham
Chicago Scholars; Reach Pathways, CEO; Co-CEO
Leslie McKinney
Black Women in Science and Engineering, Chicago Director
Participant insights
Hear it From Them
FAQ
How many cohorts are offered each year?
We run two cohorts per year: a Spring cohort (January–June) and a Fall cohort (July–December).
Who is encouraged to apply?
All Black and Latine innovators who are looking to take the next step in their careers are encouraged to apply! We are looking for business leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, and anyone who is looking to grow.
What is the selection process?
Applicants will be selected if they can be paired with a mentor based on their goals and expectations of the program. We intentionally pair mentors and mentees together to help each participant thrive. Unfortunately, we traditionally receive more applicants than spots available in the program. If you are not selected for one cohort, we encourage you to apply again.
What are the benefits of joining?
Mentees receive:
– Access to a mentor who can help them achieve their goals while also getting the benefits of supporting another person to accomplish their goals.
– Access to a supportive network of over 400 innovators who have participated in the program
– Invitations to cohort-only events with industry leaders and thought leaders
– Complimentary invitation to Chicago Innovation events during your 6-month program
What is the program structure of The Ladder?
Each cohort of The Ladder is six-months long. Mentees will be invited to attend orientations to learn how to get the most out the program. During the six-month cohorts, mentors and mentees meet one-on-one to help the mentees reach their goals. Throughout the cohort, we host intimate gatherings to allow participants to get to know other innovators in the program.
What is the time commitment if accepted?
Participants can plan to spend a total of 8-10 hours over the course of the cohort with their match. Mentees and mentors will also be invited to 4-5 program specific events and workshops geared toward connection making and skill development. You will also be invited to monthly Chicago Innovation events while in the program.
What are the participation requirements?
Mentees are asked to enter the program with a clear goal and objectives regarding why they wish to participate. We ask you to respect your mentor’s time and respond promptly to emails and communicate well about meetings.
Tips to help increase my chances of being accepted?
Fill out the application as fully as possible. The more information you provide, the easier it will be to match you with a mentor.
Are scholarships available?
We offer a limited number of need-based scholarships for applicants who may not otherwise be able to afford the enrollment fee. Additional details about these scholarships, along with a section to indicate need or interest, can be found at the end of the application.
I am interested in sponsoring The Ladder. Who do I contact?
Please contact Laura LeClair at lauraj@chicagoinnovation.com if you wish to join us in connecting innovators in Chicago.
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
PROGRAM SPONSORS
