Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor or supporter of local startups, these events are perfect for networking, learning and exploring Chicago’s startup scene:
1.) Inspire Startups May Showcase
When: Wed., May 15 at 6 p.m.
Where: Inspire Business Center, 1016 W. Jackson Blvd.
Tickets: http://inspirestartups3.eventbrite.com/
Why you should go: Mingle and get a first look at Chicago startups including: Choopia, CurbNinja, Empeopled, Express Pigeon, Galppit, Luncheon, Saavo Digital, Sollywood TV, Spikeball and WindyCitySDR. Also, don’t miss feature speaker Marina Dedes of Lightbank.
What’s Inspire Startups?
Inspire Startups is a showcase event hosted by the Inspire Business Center. The business center is a co-working environment that provides businesses the technology and services they need to meet and exceed their expectations.
2.) SEO for Startups: Best Practices
When: Tues., May 21 at 6 p.m.
Where: Chopin Theater, 1543 W. Division St.
Tickets: http://entrepreneursunpluggd.com/event/seo-for-startups-best-practices
Why you should go: Want to gain more Internet traffic on your startup’s site? Learn how to make your page SEO optimized with help from Brent Payne (CEO of Loud Interactive), Dan Olson (CEO of UpCity) and Rod Holmes (Partner at Chicago Style SEO).
What’s Entrepreneurs Unpluggd?
Entrepreneurs Unpluggd is an event series targeted to create an intimate environment where entrepreneurs can learn from experiences, as well as network with others.
3.) Technori Pitch
When: Tues., May 28 at 6 p.m.
Where: Chase Auditorium, 10 S. Dearborn St.
Tickets: http://may-pitch-eorg.eventbrite.com/
Why you should go: Each month entrepreneurs, developers, designers, tech companies, investors and those enthusiastic about Chicago’s tech scene gather to present and view pitches. Keynote speaker and pitches for this event have not been announced yet, but Technori Pitches always fill up quick!
What’s Technori?
Technori is an online hub for the entrepreneur community, providing curated content and monthly events aimed at bringing people together to spark fresh ideas.
4.) Built in Chicago Launch – May
When: Wed., May 29 at 6 p.m.
Where: Rockit Bar & Grill, 22 W. Hubbard St.
Tickets: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/6391496137
Why you should go: See what recently launched startups are doing. This is also a great chance to network with other entrepreneurs. This month HugBoard, Social Crunch, RocketMiles, BTSocial and For Goods will be presenting.
What’s Built in Chicago?
Built in Chicago is an online community for entrepreneurs to make posts, find tips, and lookup Chicago events.
5.) Startup Bootcamp: for the love of the gamification
When: Wed., May 29 at 7 p.m.
Where: Nextdoor, 659 W. Diversey Parkway
RSVP: https://www.nextdoorchi.com/web/guest/nd-classes
Why you should go: This session, hosted by Leroy Pinto and the SU Bootcamp Team, will focus on the push and pull conversations between you and the customer. The session is aimed to teach the concept of flow and gamification in order to connect startups with their clients.
What’s Next Door Chicago?
Next Door Chicago is a community café created by State Farm. It was created with the idea of becoming a hangout spot where people can come for free finance and insurance advice. This colorful space also provides free classes.
(Top photo via conferences.io)