Chicago Early Growth Ventures

Overview

Chicago Early Growth Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Chicago, Illinois, focusing on early-stage investments in startup companies across the United States. The firm is deeply integrated into the Chicago startup ecosystem, with a team that is predominantly based in the city, and actively supports local entrepreneurs. While they have a strong presence in Chicago, they are open to investing in companies from any location, emphasizing a broad geographical focus. The firm's investment strategy is centered around seed-stage and early-stage companies, with a willingness to consider investments in almost any sector or demographic. They frequently engage with companies that have a Chicago presence, including those founded by students or alumni of Chicago-based universities, but are not limited to this criterion. Their approach is to build and develop relationships among their members, other investor organizations, and ambitious entrepreneurs, providing ongoing deal access to their members and contributing to the growth of the early-stage angel investor community within the Chicago ecosystem. Chicago Early Growth Ventures seeks to make multiple smaller investments at the seed stage, aligning with the Y Combinator approach of making many smaller bets versus fewer larger bets. This strategy allows them to diversify their portfolio and support a wide range of innovative startups. Their commitment to the Chicago startup community is evident through their active participation and support, aiming to foster a thriving entrepreneurial environment in the region.

Investment Focus

• Seed-stage funding
• Early-stage funding
• Technology-focused startups
• Companies with a Chicago presence or connection
• Innovative and scalable business models
• Strong founding teams
• Diverse industry sectors
• High growth potential
• Commitment to building relationships within the startup ecosystem
• Willingness to engage with a network of investors and entrepreneurs