Guest Author: Brett Trainor, Founder & Host, B2B Founder Podcast

Research tells us that fewer than 5% of all startups reach a million dollars in annual revenue and fewer than 1% reach $10M in annual revenue.

The 5% club is more exclusive than it should be, and I believe this is an execution problem versus an idea problem. Growth is not a one-dimensional challenge.

First, we’d like to give a heartfelt thank you to all the attendees who came along with us on the adventure of ScaleUp Chicago 2020 ⁠— we are all navigating the new terrain of virtual events and conferences together. And, as we do so, 1871 is thrilled to have been able to bring our spring conference to you right in comfort of your home! For those who were not able to attend, we missed you and there's always next year.

Funders include the Searle Funds at the Chicago Community Trust, Walder Foundation and Bank of America 

Guest Author: Lisa Weiss, CEO, Storybeat Studio

If you’re among the hundreds of millions participating in Zoom or other video conference calls while working from home, video is likely a large part of your day. Despite so-called “Zoom fatigue,” more than 25% of the tech sector now wants permanent remote work, and that means more video calls and content in the future.

Entrepreneurs have an opportunity to elevate the quality of their video content while sharing their areas of expertise with a more engaged audience. This blog primarily focuses on inspiring entrepreneurs to create original video content on their own at home, but some of these tips and insights will also help improve the quality and composition of your video conference calls.

Guest Author: Kelly Bertog, Marketing Manager, Future Founders

“Founders often hold too tightly onto solutions and too loosely onto problems.”

-Michael Seibel, CEO of Y Combinator

During these trying times, how can startups ensure they weather the storm? I recommend focusing intensely on solving customer problems, and I argue that your customers' pain-points are more important than ever.

Guest Author: Ben Schack, Head of Digital Partnerships at BMO Harris Bank

On April 27th, we announced the launch of WMN•FINtech: A Women in FINtech Initiative by 1871 and BMO Harris Bank. This is the fourth collaboration for BMO Harris and 1871, and the first time we have focused exclusively on US-based companies with a woman founder or cofounder.

Guest Author: Aon

As entrepreneurial and growth-stage business communities grapple with the virtual workplace and remote work styles, connectivity has become necessary lifelines for business to continue in a pandemic environment. The heightened reliance upon technology escalates cyber security considerations and brings increased focus on the scope of cyber insurance and professional liability coverages in a dynamic global insurance market.

Guest Author: Travis Claytor, President & Owner, TC Strategic Communications

It’s safe to say that although we are still in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, the way that we operate and how we accomplish even the simplest of tasks has been forever changed. Our lives are changing, business is evolving, and the way we connect with people across the globe will never be the same. Most people are working from home, balancing a crazy schedule as personal and professional lines blur.

With the growing concerns of COVID-19, we want you to know that we are committed to doing our part to keep both our members, guests, staff, and community healthy. We are continuing to monitor the situation and are keeping a close eye on official information, including the Chicago, Illinois, and U.S. Departments of Public Health and guidance published by the CDC.

Effective immediately, access to 1871 is members-only. Everyone who enters must have their own badge: no public or visitor access will be permitted.

Given the varying levels of uncertainty in regards to hosting public events due to the progression of COVID-19, your health and safety are our top priority at 1871.