Innovation on Tap
Innovation on Tap will bring together Chicago’s emerging water tech founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders for an afternoon focused on water innovation and connection. The event will feature a live Water Tech Pitch Competition, an expert panel, and high-impact networking designed to spotlight promising water technologies and strengthen Chicagoland’s water innovation ecosystem.
Taking place after the Chicago Venture Summit, Innovation on Tap creates a dedicated space for early-stage water tech founders to connect with investors and ecosystem partners who can help support their growth.
Event Program
Details coming soon.
Thank you to our funding partners:
The Coleman Foundation: A philanthropic foundation that invests in community-based organizations and local institutions working to strengthen the physical, economic, and emotional well-being of people across the greater Chicago region.
NSF Great Lakes RENEW Engine: A National Science Foundation Regional Innovation Engine led by Current. This 75+ partner coalition supports water technology commercialization and connects startups with long-term ecosystem resources, visibility, and opportunities.
Thank you to our event partners:
Evergreen Climate Innovations: Catalyzing early-stage climate technologies through investment, mentorship, and support for Midwest environmental innovators.
LongJump VC: A founder-led, seed-stage venture fund supporting first-time and underrepresented entrepreneurs across the Chicagoland ecosystem.
World Business Chicago: The official public-private economic development agency for the City of Chicago.
Innovation on Tap is hosted by Current, an independent Chicago-based nonprofit working to solve pressing water challenges and grow a circular blue economy in the Great Lakes region.