Build Up Chicago
Being able to build isn't an advantage anymore. With AI, anyone can ship a product this weekend.
More companies are starting than ever, and so are more forgettable ones. What separates you won't be what's possible. It will be what you're ambitious enough to attempt.
Build is for people ready to take the leap, and to build something worth it. One morning with the founders who've done it, the people who can tell good enough from great, and the people you'll build with.
Tell us what you're building when you register, and we'll seat you at the right tables.
What to expect
See what's possible now Hear from founders building with AI on what it takes to start, and to lead, in this era.
Get in a room with people who've done it Small-group discussions with growth-stage founders and mentors, whether you're still shaping the idea or already have an MVP.
Leave with your idea sharper Workshop your idea live, say it out loud and get pushed on it.
Find your co-founder Opt into co-founder matching, with introductions made after the event.
Who you're around changes what you believe is possible.
Based in Chicago. Serving the world.
Agenda
9:00 AM · Doors open and breakfast
9:30 AM · Welcome and opening: Betsy Ziegler, CEO, 1871 The barrier to starting a company and building technology has never been lower. There are more problems worth solving than ever, and you can be the one to solve them.
9:50 AM · The Leap Three short sessions from builders on what it takes to start something now.
Sample topics might include:
Built by Agents: what it looks like to build a startup with AI instead of a team
Built in Chicago: why where you build matters less than who you build around
Risky Either Way: why the skills to thrive in an AI economy are the skills of an entrepreneur, and why you might as well build the future for yourself
11:00 AM · Off the Record, round one, with lunch Small-group discussions led by people who've been there before. Groups are split by stage, from ideation to post-MVP.
11:50 AM · Off the Record, round two Switch groups or go deeper.
12:35 PM · Build It Out Loud Take your idea and shape it, so you leave with a more concrete plan than you came in with.
Tickets: $75 · Free for 1871 members