1871 and the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC) announced Friday that PNC Bank will be the title sponsor in 2017 for the 1871/IHCC joint accelerator program focused on fostering opportunities for Latinx-owned technology companies.
The bank's generous financial support will help continue to build the educational programming, resources, funding and technological assistance provided to the 1871/IHCC cohort companies. In addition, the bank's large network will engage directly with the member companies, providing mentorship and connections within the Chicago banking community.
“PNC Bank has been a very supportive corporate partner for both IHCC and 1871 for some time, and their addition as a title sponsor to this program will create an even stronger network for Latinx businesses to take advantage of,” said 1871 CEO Howard A. Tullman. “We look forward to our continued partnership and all the great opportunities it will bring in 2017.”
Twelve companies are currently participating in the IHCC/1871 incubator program, which launched in November 2016. As cohort members, the Latinx-led companies receive access to tailored programming, networking opportunities and a chance to pitch their business at a large showcase event on March 1.
“PNC has a deep commitment to diversity. It’s a part of our company’s core values and aligns very well with the mission of the 1871/IHCC joint incubator,” said Scott Swanson, PNC Bank Illinois president. “This investment provides much needed resources for members of the cohort, but more importantly promotes business growth within the Chicago tech startup space.”
1871 has previously partnered with IHCC, CODE2040, Chicago Urban League, ImBlackinTech, Code Latino and many more organizations in an effort to increase opportunities for Hispanic and African American entrepreneurs. 1871 receives support and resources from a number of corporate partners, which it leverages to support these initiatives designed to create a meaningful impact on diversity in the tech community and create opportunities for entrepreneurs throughout Chicago.
"As an early phase tech startup company, the educational resources, support and mentoring relationships provided by the 1871/IHCC accelerator program have been instrumental in my go-to-market strategy, team building ideas and more," said Victoria Elena Nones, founder and CEO of 1871/IHCC cohort company Satira. "The relationships I'm building are a valuable part of this experience, and I look forward to continuing my friendships and working relationships with my cohort and mentors long after the program is over."
Members of the press wishing to arrange an interview with any of the cohort companies or those with questions can contact press@1871.com.
