This May saw the largest Czech trade mission to the USA and Canada, with stops in Chicago, Boston, Toronto and Seattle. Despite a packed schedule, the Czech delegation gained valuable insights into Chicago´s thriving startup scene. They connected with local partners and talent while showcasing their cutting-edge innovations they brought from the heart of Europe. The program included tours of the Digital Manufacturing and Cybersecurity Institute and incubator 1871, culminating in the Czech-American Business Innovation Forum. The program in the Windy City rounded off with a Networking Soirée, providing social space for further interaction.

The highlight of the program in Chicago was the Czech-American Business Innovation Forum, showcasing the brilliance of Czech startups in AI, advanced manufacturing, and bio/health tech. Minister Síkela, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer at World Business Chicago, Abin Kuriakose, and President Rafaj jointly opened the forum setting the tone for the productive morning ahead. Minister Síkela in his Opening Remarks noted that ´Chicago is poised to be among the leaders of the fourth industrial revolution´ given its diverse economy merging together manufacturing, finance, and commerce. ´Our aim is to engage with the Chicago ecosystem to discover new opportunities and find common ground for future collaborations,´ he added. The forum fostered lively discussions and opened doors for future partnerships. Here, nine Czech startups pitched their ideas in a captivating competition, with Vision Craft being the winner. The participants were lucky to learn from three impressive judges: Billy Ndizeye from World Business Chicago, Nate Mirabito from 1871 and Sotiris A. Pagdadis from Kereitsu Forum. While the Pitch Contest was underway, a panel discussion titled Insights from Chicago´s Business Ecosystem Experts took place. The Consulate General of the Czech Republic in Chicago is grateful for the speakers on panel who shared their expertise and knowledge with the Czech delegation: Ginta Rubin from Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, Abin Kuriakose from World Business Chicago, Tenille Johnson from 1871, Shannon McGhee from mHUB and Nathaniel Cutler from Thorelli & Associates. The forum culminated in a keynote speech delivered by the 1871 CEO, Betsy Ziegler, who managed to inspire everyone in the room.

In addition, the program in Chicago offered a delightful social event beyond the regular business agenda. The delegation had the opportunity to enjoy a Networking Soirée at Michigan Plaza, opened by Minister Síkela, Indiana Secretary of State Digeo Morales, Czech Ambassador to the United States Miloslav Stašek and Consul General Jakub Utěšený. The Networking Soirée fostered connections between Czechs and Americans in business, academia, and beyond, with participation from the consular corp, local institutions, including Czech compatriots. Additionally, thanks to support of International Prague Committee more than 140 distinguished guests could also enjoyed a special musical performance by Czech opera singer Ester Pavlů and Czech pianist Ahmad Hedar which added a touch of elegance to the trade event of the year.

Monika Bokšová, Consulate General of the Czech Republic in Chicago