1871 is a globally recognized technology and entrepreneurship center located in the heart of Chicago. It serves as a vital hub for over 450 digital startups, growth-stage companies, and corporate innovators, providing co-working space, specialized industry programming, extensive mentorship networks, and access to venture capital. Named after the year of the Great Chicago Fire and symbolizing the city's spirit of rebuilding and innovation, 1871's mission is to inspire, equip, and support founders to build groundbreaking businesses and bolster Chicago's reputation as a leading global tech hub.
The headquarters serves as the primary physical hub for 1871's operations, housing its extensive co-working spaces, private offices for startups, event venues, classrooms for workshops and educational programs, and administrative offices. It's designed to facilitate collaboration, networking, and innovation among its members.
Expansive 140,000+ sq ft facility, state-of-the-art event spaces, numerous conference rooms, dedicated industry vertical hubs (e.g., for fintech, supply chain), a welcoming community area, podcasting studio, and stunning views of the Chicago skyline and river.
The work culture at 1871 is dynamic, collaborative, and entrepreneurial. It fosters a strong sense of community, encouraging peer-to-peer support, mentorship, and a 'pay-it-forward' ethos. The environment is high-energy, driven by innovation and the pursuit of growth.
As one of the largest and most influential tech incubators in the United States, 1871's headquarters is a cornerstone of Chicago's tech ecosystem. It plays a crucial role in nurturing early-stage companies, attracting tech talent, and connecting startups with corporate partners and investors.
While 1871's physical operations are centralized at its Chicago headquarters, its global presence is significant. This is achieved through its diverse community of international founders, partnerships with global innovation hubs and corporations, an alumni network of companies with worldwide operations, and by hosting international delegations and events. 1871 actively participates in global tech discussions and attracts talent and ideas from around the world, contributing to a globally connected innovation ecosystem.
222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza, Suite 1212
Chicago
IL
USA
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As of April 2025, 1871' leadership includes:
1871 has been backed by several prominent investors over the years, including:
1871 has strengthened its leadership team with key appointments in revenue generation and member experience, while also seeing a transition in its innovation leadership. These changes reflect a continued focus on growth and community support.
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1871 primarily utilizes a standard email format for its staff, typically combining the employee's first and last name. This is a common practice for professional organizations.
The most common email format for 1871 is [first].[last]@1871.com. For example, jane.doe@1871.com.
Format
betsy.ziegler@1871.com
Example
80%
Success rate
1871 Blog • 2023-11-01
1871, in collaboration with World Business Chicago, unveiled the ninth cohort of the ThinkChicago Launchpad program. This initiative is dedicated to supporting and retaining promising student founders from Chicago-area universities by providing essential resources, mentorship, and community....more
1871 Blog • 2024-02-15
1871 introduced the 12th cohort of its Advanced Member Program (AMP), a six-month curriculum designed to help growth-stage member companies scale their businesses through expert-led workshops, peer roundtables, and dedicated mentorship....more
1871 Blog • 2023-09-20
1871 partnered with Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago's (MSI) PROmoteCHI program to broaden the tech talent pipeline by offering hands-on tech experiences and mentorship to high school students from underrepresented communities....more
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