A Seat at the Cap Table: We Don't Wait for Invitations
A Seat at the Cap Table: We Don’t Wait for Invitations is the community kickoff to Tech Chicago Week 2026, bringing together investors, founders, operators, tech engineers, and ecosystem builders from across Chicago’s innovation community.
Black Men in Venture exists to catalyze networking and collaboration for underrepresented talent in the innovation and startup ecosystem. This gathering is designed to open the week by creating space for meaningful connection ahead of Tech Chicago Week.
The evening will bring together a broad group of participants, as we believe strong ecosystems are built when all voices are in the room. We plan to foster intentional relationships, exchange ideas, and surface new opportunities for collaboration across Chicago’s innovation landscape.
Hosted at Three Cities Social Club, a Black-owned, membership-based social club founded by Draymond Washington, the venue reflects the spirit of intentional connection at the heart of this gathering. Built around the pillars of community, culture, and meaningful relationships, Three Cities Social Club embodies the type of space where authentic relationships are formed and sustained.
Black Women in Venture Capital (BWiVC): A membership organization advancing Black women in venture capital through community, education, and leadership development to expand equitable access to investment decision-making and fund management.
Join us as we open Tech Chicago Week with a night centered on relationships, opportunity, ideas, and community.