Chicago will host future-of-food summit

Why it matters: Not only are more than 2,600 food innovation tech startups headquartered here, but the field is critical to improving logistics and sustainability in the food supply chain.

Context: Chicago has seen an 802% increase in capital for logistic tech companies since 2019, mostly coming from a surge in investments after disruptions slowed the global supply chain, according to a new WBC report.

• In Q1 2022, 11 local food innovation companies raised $111 million.

Background: Since 2014, WBC has hosted Chicago Venture Summit events to raise awareness and funds for tech and startup businesses.

• In 2021, WBC helped raise $9 billion in total funding for local tech founders, according to WBC president Michael Fassnacht.

What's next: The summit takes place May 25–26. Programming highlights include:

• Keynote speech from Cleveland Avenue founder and former McDonald's CEO Don Thompson.
• Panel discussion on the local food and beverage ecosystem.
• Pitch competition for new food and agriculture founders.