Five candles for Chicago tech’s biggest innovation hub
On Tuesday, 1871 marked its fifth anniversary by announcing plans for a big celebration on Friday, May 12. “In just five years, 1871 has built a vast, diverse and bustling tech 'town square' in Chicago with the help of countless individuals who have generously dedicated their time, resources and knowledge,” said CEO Howard Tullman in a statement. The celebration will feature cocktails, food, games and demos from the innovation hub’s member companies. [Press release]
Moderne Ventures closes $33M funding round
Moderne Ventures, a Chicago-based venture capital firm that specializes in real estate, finance, insurance and home services startups, announced on Tuesday that it has closed its first fund with $33 million in commitments. The company also announced that it is officially accepting applications for the Moderne Passport Program — a seven-month immersion program that connects growth-stage companies with industry leaders and potential companies. [Press release]
PreparedHealth raises $4M to expand functionality, launch new markets
PreparedHealth, a Chicago-based startup that helps healthcare providers deliver better care to patients in their homes, announced on Tuesday that it has raised a $4 million round of funding led by Chicago Ventures. Co-founder and CEO Ashish Shah said he expects to double the size of his 13-person team over the next year and is preparing to launch in five to seven new markets. [Built In Chicago]
Trunk Club has a new VP of engineering
Late last week, Trunk Club announced that it has hired Candice Savino as its new vice president of engineering. Savino joins the company by way of Groupon, where she was senior director of engineering. “Our unique retail experience in this digitally connected world depends on excellent technology performance,” said Trunk Club president Terry Boyle. “I’m confident that under Candice’s leadership, the Trunk Club engineering team will continue to innovate and evolve our business for the future.” [Press release]
UI Labs hires former Chicago CIO
Chicago manufacturing innovation accelerator UI Labs announced on Monday that it has hired Brenna Berman to lead its City Digital initiative. The former chief innovation officer for the city of Chicago, Berman has been part of the Emanuel administration since 2011, according to the Chicago Tribune. The paper said Berman will focus on developing new partnerships with other nonprofits and industry players. [Chicago Tribune]
Images via listed companies and Shutterstock.
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