Techweek (conference)

For other meanings see Techweek.

Techweek is an annual technology event created in 2011 as a means to connect Chicago’s technology startup scene.[1] The organizers of the event state their primary mission is to celebrate and support localized technology hubs. The festival also fosters significant networking opportunities for entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and other technology professionals across industries. Executive chairman Iain Shovlin has said of the event, “Techweek aims to support technology entrepreneurs and innovators and act as a conduit for remarkable ideas and important conversations.” The inaugural 2011 conference drew in 2,487 attendees and featured 220 speakers, and the 2013 conference and expo, which took place inside Chicago’s Merchandise Mart, anticipated over 8,000 attendees.[1][2]

Since 2011, Techweek has grown into a multi-day conference and expo, featuring a startup competition,[3][4] a job fair,[2] and nightly parties, including a fashion show.[5] The 2013 speaker roster included such well-known technology leaders as Kim Dotcom and Robin Chase, co-founder and former CEO of Zipcar.[1]

In its first three years, Techweek has expanded beyond Chicago to host conferences in Los Angeles, New York, Miami, and Detroit.[6] Iain Shovlin said of the expansion, “Techweek is proud to spotlight communities that continue to innovate, inspire and drive the growth of technology broadly. It is this mission that powers us as we expand and bring the Techweek spotlight to new cities.” In 2012, the conference also began releasing its annual Techweek Chicago 100.[7] In anticipation of the full event, the list featured 100 prominent individuals in technology, but it has since adapted to recognize organizations in their entirety. Nominees are chosen from online submissions and adjudicated based on recent progress or innovation in the field.[8]

References

  1. 1 2 3 Ribeiro, Ricky (18 June 2013). "What to Expect at Techweek Chicago 2013". Biztech. Retrieved 17 July 2013.
  2. 1 2 Pletz, John (12 July 2013). "Techweek by the numbers: Attendance up one-third". Crain's Chicago Business. Retrieved 17 July 2013.
  3. ↑ Carman, David (10 July 2013). "TechWeek Recap: ‘WeDeliver’ Beats Out 70 Startups for $100K". Blackline Review. Retrieved 17 July 2013.
  4. ↑ Whitener, Laura (5 July 2013). "Editor’s Top Picks: Five Attention-Grabbing Startups From Techweek Chicago 2013". Firmology. Retrieved 17 July 2013.
  5. ↑ Yearley, Jay (2 July 2013). "TechWeek 2013 improved; influences can be seen now in other areas outside of tech". Chicago Now Media Tech Connection. Retrieved 17 July 2013.
  6. ↑ Techweek editors. "Our History". Techweek. Retrieved 11 October 2014.
  7. ↑ Gruber, Frank (19 June 2012). "Techweek 100 Announced; The Top 100 Tech Visionaries in Chicago and Midwest". Tech Cocktail Chicago. Retrieved 11 October 2014.
  8. ↑ Elahi, Amina (3 June 2014). "Who made the list? Techweek Chicago reveals its Techweek 100". Blue Sky Innovation. Retrieved 11 October 2014.

External links

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