Partner Spotlight: VentureUp is now V2:VC!
By: Maddy Rutter (TechNexus) & Rachel Mackey (OCA Ventures)
The big picture: If you're a rising VC in Chicago, V2:VC is a premier peer community for you to join. It's an org aimed at empowering the next generation of business leaders to make their mark and shake things up in the world of venture investing.
Why it matters: While other resource groups are popping up left and right, V2:VC is one of the few filling a much-needed gap — catering membership specifically to Chicago’s future business leaders in the world of entrepreneurial-minded investing, whether that's in venture capital, family office, angel networks, or private equity. V2:VC members have some solid professional experience under their belts (5+ years).
🎟️ Members-only: The V2:VC crew (~200+ and growing!) is all about living life to the fullest and finding that perfect balance between work and play. We're a bunch of curious, enthusiastic go-getters who are always thinking ahead to our next big career move. We don't just settle for where we're at now - we position ourselves for the role we really want. We dream big, and we make it happen. Apply for membership today!
✒️Words to live by: Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained
🎈Let’s get social: V2:VC members are not just here to work our butts off - we're here to have a good time and build lasting relationships in unique and creative ways. And you know what? That's where the real magic happens — in those serendipitous moments when peer-to-peer connections (or V2:VCs, as we like to call them) really matter.
👋 V2:VC is inclusive, making all current and incoming members feel acknowledged and respected by prioritizing a collaborative environment of belonging.
🤝 Plays nice with others: This isn’t a zero-sum game. We collaborate with other neighbors on our block, like ****GenZ VC, VentureNext, Chicago Venture Fellows, Let’s Talk Ops - Chicago, and more!
Come explore: v2vc.org
🎬 Behind the curtain: TechNexus Venture Collaborative and OCA Ventures, both well-established and highly respected ecosystem conveners HQ’d in Chicago, have launched V2:VC. The idea for this new initiative was born out of the success of VentureUp, which was founded in 2016 by Peter Liu and was active until 2022. TechNexus and OCA recognize that venture capital is an ever-evolving industry and want to ensure that the up-and-coming leaders of tomorrow are equipped with the professional development, resources, and network connections they need to succeed.
🔎 Zoom in: The V2:VC Chicago chapter is co-chaired by Madelyn Rutter (TechNexus) and Rachel Mackey(OCA Ventures). The board will be comprised of volunteer positions that members can opt into and participate in to help shape the direction of the community.
Curious for more? 🥳 Party with us: Launch Party this Wednesday // April 19 @ 6:00 PM