Hard Tech Happy Hour
Join us for an evening of connection, insight, and celebration at the intersection of hardtech innovation and venture capital.
We’re bringing together top industrial investors, visionary founders, and ecosystem partners for a night of high-energy networking and a timely fireside chat.
The evening will feature a special conversation, “Chicago Rising: Capital, Climate & Hard Tech Manufacturing” exploring how Chicago is emerging as a hub for climate innovation, advanced manufacturing, and hardtech startups. Leaders from across the ecosystem will share perspectives on building companies, deploying venture capital, and strengthening the Midwest’s role in the future of industrial innovation.
And oh..MLS season just started, the World Cup is coming (sadly, and inexcusably, not to Chicago ) and Manchester United are playing better...so to get us in the soccer mood, Dipalo Ventures is giving away a pair of field-level seats to a Chicago Fire match to a lucky attendee!
Speakers
Mackenzie Siren — Co-Founder & Managing Director, Chicago Climate Connect
Manuela Zoninsein — CEO & Co-Founder, Kadeya
Rafiq Ahmed — Managing Partner, Dipalo Ventures
Moderated by: JP Morgan
Supported by our sponsors JP Morgan, and partnering with mHUB and Bombay Eats, the evening will feature great conversations, delicious bites, and drinks—raise a glass with the community!
Dipalo Ventures is a Chicago-based early-stage hard tech VC firm investing in advanced manufacturing for people and the planet across energy, climate, and physical AI. We back companies at the Seed and Series A stages by leveraging our product design- and development-focused Residency to de-risk investments and accelerate growth.
J.P. Morgan is a trusted partner for the innovation economy. Our Private Bank empowers founders, executives, and investors with comprehensive wealth planning and personal balance sheet management. The Innovation Economy team delivers strategic advisory, scalable banking, and financial operations solutions designed for growth and agility. Together, these teams provide holistic solutions that address both personal and business needs—helping innovators navigate every stage of their journey with confidence and expertise.