Upcoming events.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP ESSENTIALS (E2): TALKING TO PEOPLE WITH NELL COMPERNOLLE AND TANYA TREPTOW
Join the Polsky Center and Nell Compernolle and Tanya Treptow in an informational workshop on how to talk to people most effectively about your business. Nell and Tanya both work for the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago and are research experts. In this workshop, we will discuss the best ways that you can approach people, such as potential or existing customers, about your business and apply their feedback. This is part one of a two part E2 series with NORC focusing on research, but you don’t need to attend the first to get value out of the second.
The Next Evolution of Artificial Intelligence
The convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and immersive technologies like virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) is transforming how we interact with digital and physical environments. AI is rapidly accelerating the capabilities of immersive experiences, making them more responsive, intelligent, and personalized. From AI-powered training simulations that adapt to individual learning styles to virtual customer service agents that provide real-time, natural conversations in AR environments, this fusion is redefining engagement. Healthcare institutions, for instance, are leveraging AI-driven VR simulations to train medical professionals, while retailers are deploying AR experiences enhanced with AI to offer personalized shopping journeys. The result is a new level of immersion that goes beyond static digital environments, providing dynamic, context-aware interactions that feel natural and intuitive.
As enterprises explore the potential of AI-driven immersive technologies, they face both opportunities and challenges. The emergence of spatial computing devices, such as Apple’s Vision Pro and Meta’s Quest 3, is expanding the reach into industries like manufacturing, aviation, and finance. AI enables digital twins to simulate real-world operations in XR environments, helping companies optimize workflows and predict outcomes. However, enterprises must navigate hurdles such as hardware adoption, data integration, and large-scale deployment to unlock the full potential of these technologies. As AI continues to advance, its synergy with immersive platforms will drive more interactive, intelligent, and accessible experiences—reshaping how we work, learn, and connect in an increasingly blended digital and physical world.
ISA Presents: The Filmmaking Framework w Rob Deege
Join the ISA's Director of Education, Max Timm, as he dives into all things filmmaking with producer, Rob Deege. This will be an incredibly informative discussion that you don't want to miss!
You will learn:
The role of a Producer - from development to distribution
The producer’s perspective on scripts
What makes a successful collaboration between writers and producers
The steps in development, sales, and packaging processes
Trends in film & TV production and the impact of streaming and digital platforms
Presented by International Screenwriters’ Network
INVESTING ESSENTIALS: SUCCESS AND FAILURE IN ONE’S LIFE AND CAREER
Join the Polsky Center’s Investor in-Residence for private equity, Tim Kelly, MBA ’00, for an interactive workshop to discuss special topics in EQ.
Tim has been involved in private equity for nearly three decades in senior leadership and investment management roles with Allstate Insurance Company, Heller Financial, GE Capital, and Adams Street Partners. Tim began his career with Goldman Sachs & Co. in Chicago where he traded over-the-counter (OTC) securities and managed the office’s OTC market expansion efforts. He went on to manage billions of dollars in private equity related investment programs and to complete hundreds of successful international partnership and direct equity and fixed income investments. He is proud of an extensive global network of general and limited partner relationships he developed throughout his career as a result of his personable interaction style, objectivity and candor, and desire to help others succeed. His vast industry knowledge and experiences transcend finance, investments, law, international business, and complex capital formation structures.
WHO KNEW The Smartest People In The Room - Melissa Core-Caballo and Keith Thomas
Anyone who follows my platform recalls the live event series that birthed SPITR. It was called Who Knew and the audience reaction we always aimed for was, "wow, who knew!!!". I predict your reaction to this episode will be exactly that...who knew indeed!
Melissa Core-Caballo is one of the most unique executives we've ever met. From humble beginnings in a gypsy caravan in Australia to becoming a super successful entrepreneur and running her branding firm, she is a force of nature who will inspire you. Legendary producer Tony Brown calls her "the velvet glove" = a strong punch delivered softly.
Keith Thomas is a music industry lifer, starting out as a performer at age 9, to writing and producing award winning, hit songs for stars such as Ronnie Milsap, BeBe & CeCe Winans, Amy Grant, Vanessa Williams, James Ingram, Whitney Houston and Selena among others. He's won 2 GRAMMY's and 5 Dove Awards.
Please join us for what will be the best hour of your week. I promise you will leave smarter and more inspired than you arrived.
How Search Technology Creates Value for Music Companies in 2025
Music search technology is more than just a tool for sync — it’s reshaping how record labels, music publishers, and music tech companies unlock value in unexpected ways. From A&R and marketing to catalog management and beyond, AI-powered search is driving efficiency, uncovering new opportunities, and transforming the way businesses navigate their music assets. In this webinar, we’ll explore how the latest innovations in music search technology are shaping the industry in 2025 and helping companies get more from their catalogs.
Presented by Music Biz
ENTREPRENEURSHIP ESSENTIALS (E2): OPTIMIZING YOUR DATA WITH NELL COMPERNOLLE AND TANYA TREPTOW
Join the Polsky Center and Nell Compernolle and Tanya Treptow in an informational workshop on how to optimize your data intake and analysis. Nell and Tanya both work for the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago and are research experts. In this workshop, we will discuss the best ways that you can structure your data intake so that you get the right kind of data, and then also how to interpret it, so you can optimize the way you incorporate feedback. This is part two of a two part E2 series with NORC focusing on research, but you don’t need to attend the first to get value out of the second.
INVESTING ESSENTIALS: TRENDS VS. FADS IN PRIVATE EQUITY (PE) INVESTING
How do you identify investments that have a high probability of achieving growth and returning capital over the long-term? How do you separate short-term fads from industries and sectors with sustainable competitive advantages? In recent decades, certain sectors have witnessed meaningful investment by private equity firms — veterinary, dental, insurance brokers are examples — but how do you know when the tide will turn? In the late 90s, investors flocked to internet companies only to have the tech bubble burst in the early 2000s, losing large suits of capita. Over the past decade however, internet investments have supported strong returns—was it a theme or fad early on? In recent years, PE firms have focused on industries that do not fit the traditional buyout model—businesses with few assets and meaningful human capital and key man risk such as wealth management firms, insurance brokers, accounting firms and engineering firms. Will this support strong returns long term or is it yet another passing fad? Join IIR, Duane Jackson, to discuss some of the recent themes and fads in private equity to improve your investment theses development.
From Corporate Jobs to CPG CEOs: Asian Women Building Food Brands
Founders Susan Chen (Madame Susan Sauces) and Teresa Ging (Sugar Bliss) share their transitions from corporate careers to building successful CPG food brands.
Topics covered include:
Brand Building: Learn how they approached storytelling, marketing, and connecting with their audience to grow their businesses.
Challenges & Opportunities: Hear about the unique experiences they faced as Asian American female founders, including funding and industry representation.
Financing & Scaling: Discover how they navigated capital challenges and managed costs while scaling their businesses.
Advice & Future Plans: Get valuable advice for aspiring AAPI entrepreneurs and insights into what’s next for their businesses.
Presented by NY Public Library
The Future of AI and Music: Balancing Innovation, Licensing, Ethics, and Copyright
By 2033, the music industry powered by AI is projected to grow to a staggering $38.71 billion. But how can we ensure creators’ rights are protected while fostering innovation? In this session, join music, technology, and business experts at MatchTune to explore the evolving intersection of artificial intelligence and music. We’ll examine how AI-driven tools are revolutionizing the music industry, while addressing critical ethical questions around copyright, licensing and data usage. Together, we’ll discuss opportunities for fostering innovation without compromising creators’ rights. Join us to envision a future where technology and artistry collaborate seamlessly.
Presented by Music Biz
Empower Hour: Bubbly Dynamics
In recognition of Earth Day, observed on April 22, this month’s Empower Hour will feature BACP Chief Small Business Officer Lotika Pai chatting with Carolee Kokola, Director of Enterprise Operations for Bubbly Dynamics LLC.
Established in 2002, Bubbly Dynamics is dedicated to incubating small businesses in formerly vacant, industrial buildings located in disinvested communities. Through Bubbly Dynamics, The Plant and Bubbly exist as buildings offering affordable, energy-efficient spaces for space for small and emerging manufacturers, product assemblers, and other businesses committed to sustainability. The Plant, located in the Back of the Yards neighborhood, is a research and production facility comprising a collaborative community of small food businesses. In Bridgeport, Bubbly is home to a variety of light industrial businesses ranging from furniture repair to bike building, leading to collaboration that strengthens the businesses and reinforces sustainable practices.
Automating Your Fan Business with AI
The future of the music industry lies in automation, and AI-powered tools are transforming how artists engage with fans and generate revenue. In this session, SymphonyOS will break down the evolving landscape of fan-driven businesses, exploring how centralized data and automation can help artists scale efficiently. We’ll dive into real-world strategies for monetizing pre-saves, optimizing e-commerce, and leveraging AI-driven marketing tools like email and SMS automation. Join us to discover how innovation can empower artists to build sustainable, always-on businesses while staying in control of their audience and data.
Presented by Music Biz
From Blueprint to Breakthrough: Scaling an Artist’s Success Story
Imagine an A&R signing an artist with a $1 million budget to boost their music career. What’s the next move? What about just $1,000? Success is more than merely marketing and cash – it’s about having a strategic outlook and effective execution. That was the case for GRAMMY-winner Mannywellz. In this real-life case study, hear and watch the team and masterminds behind the scenes craft his dream career by reverse-engineering his strategy using SMART goals. They’ll cover building custom vision boards, setting realistic target goals, where tech fits into the equation, and how to actively stay on track with making landmark moments happen in an artist’s career. At the end of the day, results come from preparation.
Presented by Music Biz
The Next Evolution of Games
With the successes of “Pokémon Go” and “Beat Saber,” virtual and augmented reality games have proven their staying power—but what makes them successful, and what will convince more gamers to make the transition? While VR’s appeal is undeniable, skepticism remains due to hardware demands, limited game libraries, and its perception as a niche market. The latest data suggests that while VR engagement is rising, developers remain hesitant, citing concerns over market size. The Apple Vision Pro, despite its high-tech promise, has yet to significantly shift industry sentiment. Meanwhile, arcade gaming is experiencing a resurgence, driven by social and physical activity-based experiences—an indication that players crave interactive, shared gaming environments.
Balancing potential with current limitations, players continue to seek a truly massive multiplayer online (MMO) experience in virtual reality (VR)—a vision many associate with the concept of the Metaverse. Yet, no game has fully captured that elusive sense of scale and depth. To understand what could drive mass adoption, we look to perspectives from gamers, arcade experiences, immersive game rooms, streamers, and developers. Are players seeking social connectivity, compelling storylines, ease of adoption, or high-end aesthetics? The answer may determine the future of immersive gaming.
Are you Ready to Become an Entrepreneur?
Presented by Score Chicago
Two experienced SCORE mentors will lead you through this self-assessment to help determine if you are ready to become an entrepreneur. Do you have the qualifications, the temperament and skills needed to succeed?
Ask the Music Tech Experts
Experts don't always love it when you slide into their DMs asking "can I pick your brain?" So our friends at Music Tectonics have done the hard part for you!
Ask your burning questions and get access to a treasure trove of music tech expertise from these advisors, investors, and a founder:
-Cliff Fluet - Eleven Advisory, Lewis Silkin
-Vickie Nauman - CrossBorderWorks
-Hazel Savage - Angel investor, exited founder Musiio
Presented by Music Tectonics
Behind the Mask – Stories of Courage, Growth and Strength
Presented by National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Chicago members Mary Balistreri, CEO & President of MBT More Business Today, Lemi-Ola Erinkitola, Founder & CEO of The Critical Thinking Child, Carmen Londono, President of The Insurance Pros and Isoken Ogbomo, President & CEO of Complete Health Service, Inc. The panel will be moderated by NAWBO Chicago Board Member Ebony Whitson, Founder & Creative Designer of Whitson Wonder Productions.
Behind The Mask: Stories Of Courage, Growth and Strength will feature the heartfelt journeys from remarkable female entrepreneurs who have triumphed over challenges, embraced growth and emerged with wisdom to share. This celebration of women’s resilience and strength is one you won’t want to miss, especially during Women’s History Month!
Empower Hour: Artful Framer Studios
In honor and recognition of Women’s History Month, celebrated in March, this month’s Empower Hour will feature BACP Chief Small Business Officer Lotika Pai chatting with Hope Dye, Owner of Artful Framer Studios.
Artful Framer Studios, located in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood, offers custom framing, matting, printing and canvas stretching. The studio also sells original art and art prints from local artists.
The candid conversation will cover the start and growth of the business, customer retention and business partnerships. The webinar will end with a Q&A for attendees to ask questions.
Presented by BACP
AI for Music Rights: Get What You’re Owed
Worried about AI replacing your music and disrupting the industry? Think again.
Join Orfium’s Bryan Bakke, for a free webinar where we’ll reveal how AI is actually becoming the music industry’s secret weapon for maximizing revenue and ensuring rights owners get paid.
Presented by Music Biz
WHO KNEW The Smartest People In The Room - Adrian Belew and Daniel Rowland
If the measure of a professional musician is determined by the star power of their collaborators, then get ready to be blown away by the lengthy list of credits achieved by these two stars.
Adrian Belew is an American musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer. A multi-instrumentalist primarily known as a guitarist and singer, he was the frontman for King Crimson for nearly 30 years. He has also released 20 solo records as well as working extensively as a session and touring player for such stars as Frank Zappa, David Bowie, Talking Heads, Paul Simon, Tom Tom Club and Nine Inch Nails. Just imagine the stories he can share...
Daniel Rowland is that very rare genius who possesses a well developed right and left brain, which has enabled him to achieve huge success as an award winning music producer, tech executive, and educator. He is Head of Strategy and Partnerships at LANDR, co-founder of Audiotool, and longtime instructor at MTSU. As a creative, Daniel has produced the music for an Oscar-winning Pixar film (“Piper”); and mixed and mastered multiplatinum/Grammy-nominated projects for artists as varied as Nine Inch Nails, Seal, Phillip Glass, Gwen Stefani, Gayle, Gucci Mane and many others.
Please join us for what will be the best hour of your week. I promise you will leave smarter and more inspired than you arrived.
Presented by WHO KNEW
Forming Your Business: Choosing a Legal Entity and Risk Mitigation
Presented by Agostino Filippone, a Partner at Chokshi Filippone Law, LLC
Whether LLC, Corp, or another legal entity, when starting a business, organizing your company the right way can significantly limit risk. Agostino Filippone, a Partner at Chokshi Filippone Law, LLC, will present on entity options, as well as provide information and material to help you navigate around common pitfalls faced by business-owners.
Legal Basics for Influencers: Content & Compliance
Are you an influencer looking to safeguard your content, master the art of negotiating collaborations and contracts, and minimize risks as your brand flourishes?
Or is your arts organization planning to partner with influencers for your marketing campaigns?
Join us for a dynamic and informative session on the legal essentials for social media influencers. This free Zoom program will cover everything you need to know to protect your content, successfully navigate collaborations and contracts, and manage liabilities as new opportunities come your way.
We’ll also dive into Illinois’ groundbreaking Child Influencer Compensation law—the first of its kind in the nation—and explore its implications and how to be in compliance. Bring your questions and join the conversation!
Free. Online
Click here to register.
Using Technology Tools to Maximize Profits
Presented by Shelby Parchman, InUrban Strategies, LLC
In today's fast-paced business world, technology has become a vital tool for enhancing profitability, even for those who may not consider themselves tech-savvy. This webinar is designed to introduce you to the fundamental ways in which technology can empower your business, increase efficiency, and boost your bottom line. Whether you're a small business owner, a manager, or an entrepreneur, this webinar is tailored to help you unlock the potential of technology without needing advanced technical knowledge.
What Up Pitches - Celebrate Her Voice
In celebration of Women’s History Month, we’ll be hosting a FREE panel called “Celebrate Her Voice” on Wednesday, March 12th from 12-1pm PST. Our guest panelists are all incredible women who work at music supervision or music clearance companies that are owned and run by women! Come join us. 😉
We’ll be speaking with Asia Wagner (Deep Cut Music), Sarah Chapeck (Black & White), Anna Romanoff (Yay Team) and Nicolle Johnson (DMG Clearances).
Presented by What Up Pitches
The Next Evolution: Immersive Technology Industry Outlook | AWE Nite Chicago
As immersive technologies like virtual reality (VR) continue to evolve, enthusiasm for their adoption ebbs and flows. For years, it was almost a meme that Apple would eventually join the immersive technology space—and when they finally did with the Apple Vision Pro, it sparked a brief wave of excitement before fading. Now, the landscape is increasingly shaped by competition with artificial intelligence (AI), the current "flavor of the month" in tech.
XR Technology was once a slowly developing novelty, but has emerged as a cutting-edge tool with the potential to transform industries like healthcare, education, entertainment, and workforce training, though it still struggles to achieve mass adoption. People are becoming more curious about how AI-driven VR applications can create hyper-personalized, adaptive experiences, pushing the boundaries of interactivity and realism.
The industry outlook remains a mix of optimism and skepticism; while advancements in hardware, software, and AI are making immersive technologies more accessible and practical, skepticism still lingers. As these tools transition from niche markets to broader adoption, they hold the promise of reshaping how we work, learn, and engage with the world—but they need numbers and louder voices to champion this Next Evolution.
Presented by VRAR Chicago
Starting Your Business in Illinois
Discover local resources and connect with the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Attend this no-cost in-person workshop to learn the things you need to consider and requirements to start and own a business in Illinois. Learn the basic elements of starting a successful business such as choosing a business structure, determining tax requirements, marketing and selling and much more. Get answers to the most frequently asked questions!
By Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation
1452 East 53rd Street Chicago, IL 60615
Click here to RSVP
Design in the Age of AI | Part 1 | Intellectual Property with Irwin IP
AIGA Chicago is excited to present Design in the Age of AI: a series of talks exploring how designers can adapt and thrive as AI continues to impact our industry.
Part 1 of our series welcomes lawyers Joseph Marinelli and Victoria Hanson of Irwin IP to discuss the intersection of artificial intelligence, creative work, and the law.
Far too often in the modern world, we sign lengthy terms & conditions documents that relinquish control of our data without realizing it in exchange for access to both creative software and social media platforms. Since the emergence of generative AI, it has become more important than ever to be cognizant of our rights as well as how we share, store and distribute our work to ensure fair attribution, compensation, prevent unlicensed usage of our intellectual property and ensure the work we create for our clients is free of any conflicts.
Joseph and Victoria will bring a legal view of the artificial intelligence programs that graphic artists, printers, publishers and illustrators use to create work. Their presentation will focus on the different types of AI programs, the terms of services stipulated by those AI programs, the various rights associated with those AI programs, and the issues and considerations creatives and clients need to be aware of when using AI.
AI + IQ
Kick off 2025 with us on February 26th as we convene top experts at the cutting edge of artificial intelligence. Listen, learn and network to discover the latest in AI:
– Top AI trends for 2025
– How this evolving technology can advance you today
– What’s next: How AI will shape our lives in ways once unimaginable
Presented by Chicago Innovation
The Marketing Toolbox for Music Tech Companies
Does your marketing toolbox need an upgrade in order to reach your next customers?
Find out how tools like influencer marketing, public relations, crowdfunding, and pay-per-click ads work together for music & technology companies. Learn from the experts how to update your marketing strategy to make sales and convert customers into superfans.
Presented by Music Tectonics
Tattoos & Copyright
About the Program:
Dive into the vibrant world of tattoo art and copyright law in an interactive Zoom session with Lawyers for the Creative Arts and attorney/tattoo enthusiast Jen Nacht. From celebrity cases to local artists, tattoos have increasingly raised questions about ownership, intellectual property rights, the right to publicly display, and protections available under current copyright laws.
This program will cover the basics of copyright law as it applies to tattoo artists and works, explore what happens when tattoos are reproduced in media, and discuss the rights and responsibilities of both tattoo artists and clients. Plus, we’ll take your questions! Whether you’re an artist, a tattoo enthusiast, or just curious, join us to unpack the legal side of body art and gain insights into protecting creative work in this unique field.
Free. Online.
Polsky Exchange Capital Series - PNC Bank
Speakers :
Shawn Boone, VP Business Banker , PNC Bank.
Nicholas Reyes, Relationship Manager, PNC Bank.
PNC Bank offers a wide range of personal banking services including checking and savings accounts, credit cards, mortgage loans, auto loans, and more.
This series features presentations by capital providers and information about how to access different forms of capital. Each investor or lender will speak on:
• The types of businesses they fund and the funding they make available,
• What makes a successful ask for capital,
• Examples of success stories, and
• How to apply/pitch for funds.
To RSVP, click here
Empower Hour: The Silver Room and Silver Room Design Lab
In honor and recognition of Black History Month, celebrated in February, this month’s Empower Hour will feature BACP Chief Small Business Officer Lotika Pai chatting with Eric Williams, Owner of The Silver Room and Silver Room Design Lab.
Founded in 1997 in Wicker Park, The Silver Room is currently located in Chicago’s historic Hyde Park neighborhood and intersects art, community, and culture. The showroom experience curates unique goods and events. Recently, the Chicago institution expanded its footprint with the grand opening of Silver Room Design Lab located at 900 N. Michigan Ave. This new space focuses on limited edition items from Chicago artists and designers while inviting exploration of store art installations. The candid conversation will cover the start and growth of the business, relationship building, and customer attraction. The webinar will end with a Q&A for attendees to ask questions.
Presented by the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection
WHO KNEW The Smartest People In The Room - Lili McGrady and Audrey Gibbs
One of (many) great things about this series is shining a light on people whom may not be quite well known yet. This episode features two young stars on the rise, who I predict will become household names in our industry very soon. And it's proof that true smarts are not necessarily age-driven.
Lili McGrady is the Chief Human and co-founder of Humanable, an exciting new start-up in Nashville. Humanable is pioneering a movement to certify art as human-made, ensuring that music remains untouched by AI. Think of it as a type of "trademark" to denote whether a song is actually written 100% by a human being, without Generative AI. The concept is taking off very quickly.
Audrey Gibbs is is a Nashville-based journalist covering the music industry. She writes for The Tennessean, covering the indie, alternative, and pop music scenes in Music City. She also dips into rock and country coverage. She’s racked up many by-lines, including feature interviews with Meghan Trainor, Mandy Moore, Reese Witherspoon, Ashe, Noah Kahan, Jenny Lewis, & many others.
Please join us for what will be the best hour of your week. I promise you will leave smarter and more inspired than you arrived. And you will become hip to two of the most impressive young women whoare making waves in a big way.
Navigating the 2025 Funding Landscape
Join us for an exclusive live virtual event with a seasoned Angel Investor and Professor as she explores the latest funding trends shaping 2025. Gain actionable tips to navigate the uncertainties of the evolving investment landscape, explore strategies to position your startup for success, and learn how to stand out to investors in a competitive market. Don't miss this opportunity to stay ahead in securing the funding your startup needs to thrive.
Speakers: Anne Ravanona, Founder & CEO of Global Invest Her and Angela Lee, Founder at 37 Angels and Professor of VC at Columbia Business School
Presented by Dell for Startups
Legal Basics for Video Game Developers
The world of video game development is complex, and so are the legal principles you need to navigate as you create your work. Join us for an educational session on legal basics for video game developers with Ross Hersemann of Loading Law on February 19th at noon. In this Zoom session, Ross will cover legal topics like copyright, trademark, contracts, business law, and more, all focused on the video game industry! Plus, we’ll take your questions.
Free. Online
Taxes for Artists and Creatives: Play the Game, Minimize the Stress
It has come time for everyone’s favorite part of the year: tax season. Do you find the process stressful and unnecessarily confusing? We promise it’s not just you. Want someone who actually understands what it’s like to be in the arts to walk you through the basics in a clear – even visually compelling – way? Created for artists, creatives, and small business owners, this workshop will cover the fundamentals. You’ll walk away with a concrete understanding of the things you can and should be responsible for (they’re not as complicated as you think), as well as the confidence to know when you’ve done enough and can give yourself permission to relax. We’ll tackle common questions for artists and creatives, such as:
- When does it make sense to get help, and why?
- What exactly is taxable income?
- How can I make sure the IRS views my artistic practice as a business, not a hobby?
Presented by Lawyers for Creative Arts in partnership with Brass Taxes
WHO KNEW The Smartest People In The Room - Richard Leach and Steve Weatherby
When curating guests for this platform, I am easily attracted to people who take risks, who start exciting businesses, who love to break things to improve them. In short, I like people who display an attitude of "hold my beer and watch this". This episode delivers just such a pair of really smart, accompanied executives.
Richard Leach is the Managing Director at Curve Royalty Systems, a best-in-class royalty processing platform built for the scale and demands of the music industry in the digital age. Previously he spent 15 years working in digital distribution and sales at industry leading firms such as IODA, Sony Red and WMG.
Steve Weatherby is the founder and owner of The Best Music Company, a boutique firm focused on rights management, publishing administration and music distribution tailored to the independent music sector. Previously he's held senior executive level roles in major labels (Universal, Warner), InGrooves, and has also started and successfully sold a company to UMG. He knows how to build very successful businesses in several different lanes of the music industry.
Please join us for what will be the best hour of your week. I promise you will leave smarter and more inspired than you arrived.
In Person: ASK + GIVE: February 2025
AIGA Chicago presents an open-mic platform where you can ASK your fellow designers to GIVE you feedback, advice, or recommendations. Because we know that the design community has all the wisdom needed to solve the current issues our fellow designers have or will face in the future. Be it through a lived experience anecdote, a resource, contact, or even just a donation of time to listen to an issue, we all have the power to create change if we simply ASK or GIVE.
Special Gues Speakers Nick McKay and Steven Zych
Click Here to Register
Presented by AIGA Chicago
Demystifying Publishing: Choosing and Negotiating with Publishers
Join the Society of Midland Authors for a panel discussion on publishing. The program will cover how to find the right publisher for you and your work, how to negotiate a fair contract, and more! The session will be moderated by author, professor, and Society fo Midland Authors VP Wally Podrazik, and will feature acquisitions editor Sylvia Frank Rodriguez, attorney and LCA board member Steven Baron, and author Marlene Targ Brill.
Free. Online.
Click here to register
The Songwriters' Lab
Join us for an interactive and collaborative songwriting session designed to inspire creativity, build connections, and provide actionable tips for independent artists. Whether you're looking to improve your songwriting skills or connect with other like-minded musicians, this webinar is for you!
Presented by Hall Up
Market Sizing and Competitor Mapping + Financial Modeling Basics
Discover how to elevate your business strategy with our dynamic workshop, "Market Sizing and Competitor Mapping + Financial Modeling Basics." to deepen your market insights and financial planning skills. We'll guide you through essential techniques for accurately sizing your market and mapping your competitor segments, enabling you to effectively target and serve your audience. You'll also gain valuable knowledge on competitive analysis to position your business strategically.
In addition, the workshop covers the fundamentals of financial modeling, including constructing and interpreting key financial statements and performing scenario planning. Whether you're building a new venture or refining your current business strategy, this hands-on session will provide you with practical tools and actionable insights to drive informed decisions and enhance your business planning. Join us to master these critical skills and take your business to the next level!
mHUB
1623 W. Fulton St
Chicago, IL
Click here to register
The Influencer Effect: Turning a Personal Health Journey into a Movement
Join us for a conversation with Mila Magnani, founder of Milamend, as she shares how her personal health journey with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) transformed into a powerful movement. With over 1 million followers across social media, Mila will reveal how she turned her health advocacy into a groundbreaking supplement brand that empowers women to take control of their hormonal health. In this discussion, we'll cover Mila's journey and the intersection of individual empowerment, community building, and brand creation.
Presented by Bluestein Ventures
Ways to Finance Your Business
Presented by Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection and CIBC Bank USA
Whether you are a business owner or thinking about starting one; this webinar will teach the basics about bank financing. You will receive information about loans, lines of credit and other available resources that can help you on your entrepreneurial journey. Additionally, you will learn about the BACP Entrepreneur Certificate Program as a resource that makes you eligible to apply for CIBC Bank USA’s Entrepreneur Loan.
WHO KNEW The Smartest People In The Room - Alex Heiche and Barry Massarsky
If you have been following this series closely, you have noticed we love to feature people who are not only smart, but who also focus their careers on helping musicians and copyright holders build more sustainable careers, aka make more money. This episode is an excellent example of that focus in action.
Alex Heiche is founder and CEO of Sound Royalties. He has an innate passion for music and strong roots in the music industry. Alex established the company in 2014 after identifying the gaping need for fair funding options for music professionals, which allowed creatives to retain their copyrights.
Barry Massarsky is Partner and Co-Practice Leader of Music Economics and Valuation Services at Citrin Cooperman. Over his 4 decade career, he has been recognized as one of the most accomplished and in-demand provider of valuation services for music copyrights.
Please join us for what will be the best hour of your week. I promise you will leave smarter and more inspired than you arrived.
Thursday, February 6, 2025 at 2:00 pm ET / 11:00 am PT.
FREE, but you must register below.