Chicago Innovation Monthly

Videos From Chicago On Innovation

Why Do Large Companies Continue to Innovate?

Large Corporations

Connecting With Startups

Driving the Chicago Innovation Ecosystem Through Corporate Integration

Navigating Disruption with

Consumer Data

We have a special award category for large corporations —

the 2025 Accenture Corporate Innovator Award!

All organizations in the Chicago region that are in Crain's Chicago Business' Top 100 Largest Public Companies and Top 100 Largest Private Companies are eligible to nominate by July 31st. We're also accepting nominations in all other award categories, from big companies to startups, for profits and non-profits, across all industries.

Nominate Today

Chicago Innovation Monthly Poll

In the May poll, we asked: "How do you incorporate climate action into your everyday life?" Practicing energy efficiency at home received the most votes.

How can corporate innovation best accelerate the growth of Chicago’s innovation ecosystem?

Investing in local startups and founders

Collaborating with universities and research institutions

Launching pilot programs with civic tech and nonprofits

Opening access to data, tools and infrastructure

Fostering inclusive innovation practices

Upcoming Chicago Innovation Events

On June 18th, we're hosting the Chicago Innovation Climate Summit, a half-day event that showcases our region's strengths as a hub of climate innovation. Chicago Innovation was invited to host this event as part of SRI Congress 2025, a 1,000 person 4-day global conference on sustainability research and innovation, which is being held in North America for the first time with Chicago as the host city.

On July 16th, join us to honor the recipients of this year’s Celebrating Women in Innovation Awards. We’re proud to celebrate them not only for their groundbreaking contributions, but for how they inspire future generations to break barriers, challenge norms, and shape a more inclusive, empowered world.

Plus, Chicago’s ecosystem of organizations that support women innovators will exhibit and attend. Connect with this force that drives lasting change and innovation for all.

Celebrating the past winners of the Accenture Corporate Innovator Award:

Abbott, Milwaukee Tool, US. Foods, Gensler, McDonald's.

2023 & 2024 Accenture Corporate Innovator

Award Winner

With over 80% of pacemaker patients needing dual-chamber pacing, Abbott’s AVEIR DR system expands access to leadless pacing in the U.S. At one-tenth the size of traditional devices, it uses i2i™ technology for synchronized pacing via high-frequency pulses through the body’s conductive blood. (2024)

The Eterna™ Spinal Cord Stimulation System technology cuts charging to five times per year, the lowest recharge burden available. It treats chronic trunk and limb pain, including failed back surgery syndrome, diabetic neuropathy and nonsurgical back pain. The rechargeable implant fits seamlessly into patients’ lives. (2023)

2022 Accenture Corporate Innovator

Award Winner

Milwaukee Tool’s ONE-KEY Bluetooth Tracking Tag is a powerful inventory solution that lets users digitally track tools via computer, tablet, or smartphone. With a 300 ft. range and automatic updates through nearby ONE-KEY-enabled devices, it provides real-time visibility and management at scale for the construction industry.

2021 Accenture Corporate Innovator

Award Winner

US Foods launched a free Ghost Kitchens Playbook to help restaurants open online-only brands using their existing space. It includes proprietary tech, marketing support and one-on-one consultations to guide operators through every step of the process.

2020 Accenture Corporate Innovator

Award Winner

Gensler Chicago developed ReRun, a tool to visualize social distancing in workplaces during COVID-19. Used on over 10 million sq. ft. of office space, it reflects Gensler’s flexible, innovative approach to evolving client needs.

2019 Accenture Corporate Innovator

Award Winner

McDonald’s is investing $6 billion to modernize over 14,000 U.S. restaurants with updated designs and enhanced technology. Chicago is home to two unique McDonald’s locations: the Global Headquarters restaurant with a rotating international menu and the Flagship restaurant on Clark & Ontario, known for its modern,

eco-friendly design.

UL Enterprise elevates to Diamond sponsor

We’re thrilled to announce that UL Enterprise, a longtime supporter and former Silver Sponsor, has elevated their commitment to become a Diamond Sponsor! Their continued partnership fuels innovation and impact and we’re incredibly grateful for their support. Through their support, we’re proud to announce The UL Enterprise Safety Science Award to honor breakthroughs that transform safety from a reactive constraint into a proactive capability that protects lives, builds trust, and drives progress.

Welcoming Clean Earth Renewables as a new sponsor

We’re also excited to welcome Clean Earth Renewables as the newest sponsor of our Climate Change Initiative. Their commitment to sustainability and climate action makes them a fantastic addition to our community of changemakers.

Reflecting on an inspiring evening at The Taste of Innovation

On May 20th, The Taste of Innovation brought together a passionate community of food lovers, entrepreneurs, and forward-thinkers to explore what’s next in the world of food and drinks.

A heartfelt thank-you to our moderator and panelists, who brought their perspective, insight and creativity to an inspiring panel discussion.

Moderated by David Manilow, Creator and Executive Producer of the Emmy Award and James Beard Award-winning TV series “Check, Please!”; Creator and Host of The Dining Table podcast with Crain's Chicago Business
Rohini Dey, Founder of Let's Talk Womxn, Founder/Owner of Sanctuary (formerly Vermillion)
Natalie Shmulik, Former Chief Strategy & Incubation Officer, The Hatchery Chicago
Matt Ritchie, Senior Managing Director, Global Agriculture Practice Lead, Accenture
Chef Sarah Stegner, 2-time James Beard Award-winning Co-owner and Chef of Prairie Grass Cafe; Founder of Chicago Chefs Cook; Former President of Green City Market

See event photos here

Watch the panel recording here

Chicago Innovation Fellows Fifth Session

On May 20th, the Chicago Innovation Fellows gathered at Kellogg Wieboldt Hall for their fifth session of Cohort 1, focused on Culture, Values, Leadership and Branding.

The day began with a thought-provoking session on culture and values led by Dr. Susan Kuczmarski. This was followed by an incredible leadership panel featuring Chicago business leaders Megan McCann, Maggie O'Brien, Marc Shiffman and Kate Benson, moderated by Tom Kuczmarski.

At lunch, the Fellows heard from Farmer’s Fridge CEO Luke Saunders, who shared insights on navigating rapid growth from a leadership perspective. In the afternoon, Clinical Professor James Conley returned to discuss the critical role of branding in innovation, focusing on value propositions and the unique selling proposition.

The session wrapped up with an insightful group conversation reflecting on the program’s impact so far and what Fellows were excited to bring back to their organizations.

OpTech 2025 Technology Summit: October 20-22

View details and register here

Not Just Smart Tech — Smart Support: Inside DeVryPro’s AI Learning Coaches

R e ad m o re here

2024 Wintrust Community Impact Report — highlighting meaningful ways we’re making a difference in our communities