Chicago:Blend

The Chicago:Blend Venture Fellowship is a 4-month cohort program that provides underrepresented, aspiring VCs with real-world experience sourcing and evaluating deal flow while expanding their networks and knowledge of VC. Fellows receive formal venture finance training supplemented by live sessions with top VCs and tech leaders, a stipend, access to downtown Chicago coworking space, access to various angel and investor networks, mentorship, and career support. Fellows are also paired with a VC firm and are responsible for sourcing new deals for them. To date, more than 80% of fellows who apply for VC jobs have landed a role post-program. Collectively, these fellows have sourced more than 700+ founders, 5 of which have since received VC funding.