We launched Chicago Inno in 2014 because we felt like the city’s tech scene was growing fast, and there were more stories that needed to be told. In three and a half years we’ve written thousands of stories, sent hundreds of newsletters, hosted dozens of events—all in an effort to keep up with the amazing work happening all around Chicago’s tech community.
And the tech ecosystem in Chicago really is just that—a community. Chicago’s tech success is a result of the many entrepreneurs, technologists, sales folks, community builders and more who’ve worked tirelessly to build successful businesses in Chicago, and put the Chicago tech ecosystem on the map. Chicago tech has never been defined by the success of one company. It truly is a community effort.
And that’s what 50 on Fire is all about. It’s a chance to recognize the people and companies driving the city’s business world into the future. Beyond reccognizing the companies and CEOs, 50 on Fire regularly highlights the behind-the-scenes folks that are integral to a company’s success. (You can learn more about how the 50 winners were selected here.)
B2B Winners
- Shipbob
- SMS Assist
- Truss
- Cleverbridge
- Nick Kokonas, Tock
- Envoy
- Snapsheet
- G2 Crowd
- Jellyvision
- Alexine Mudwar, Yello
B2C Winners
- Deskpass
- Jasmine Shells, Five to Nine
- Shiftgig
- Rentalutions
- Raise
- Jiobit
- M1 Finance
Civic Winners
- Andrew Means, beyond.uptake
- Brenna Berman, UI Labs
- Jessica Dudley, The Joyce Foundation
- Provide
- Jason William Johnson, Chicago Urban League
- re:work training
Education Winners
- Blue 1647
- Katy Lynch, Codeverse
- Kelley O. Cambry, Paige & Paxton
- Tony Sheffler, Classform
- Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Lifestyle Winners
- Big Game Air
- Kevin Ludden, Figo Pet Insurance
- Wise Apple
- Party Slate
- Maja Parez, Working Bikes
- Oars and Alps
Marketing/Ad/Design Winners
- Allard Laban, Jellyvision
- Clique Studios
- Popular Pays
- The Escape Pod
- Reva Minkoff, Digital4Startups
Supporters Winners
- Becca Keaty, Bunker Labs
- Howard Tullman, 1871
- Impact Engine
- Scott Kitun, Technori
- Samara Hernandez, MATH Venture Partners
- Hyde Park Angels
- Propllr
Health Winners
- Carlo Navarro, Cancer Research Foundation
- ExplORer Surgical
- Luna Lights
- RXBAR
Thanks to everyone who came out to 50 on Fire, and congratulations to all the winners and the 150 finalists.
