Ask HN: Y Combinator-esque program in Chicago

5 points·tboxer854··5 comments

Do any startup incubators or similar things to Y Combinator exist in Chicago?

The first YC clone of all was in Chicago, actually. I think it's called Illinois Ventures 10. I'm not sure if it's still running. The site is still up:

http://www.iventures10.com/

For anyone thinking of applying, they're also probably the worst of the YC clones. I think all of the other ones probably add some value by the equity equation, but iVentures has been actively destructive by taking an unreasonable of equity and exerting ridiculous control.

Bad stories abound about them. On thefunded.com they have one astroturfed review and one negative review. I can verify that the anon posting here has the basis to accurately judge iVentures: http://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=448466

This one is at the University of Illinois 2 hours outside of the city. I was wondering if they had done one in Chicago.

There are a bunch of people talking about this. The most promising stuff seems to be coming from Sandbox industries (i have spent a lot of time with them - so i may be biased).

There are also a bundle of VCs that are talking about this as well. If you want email/jabber me at harper@nata2.org and i will introduce you to peoples.

I know some angels in Chicago that are interested in starting an incubator program focusing on translational medicine startups. They have contacts and experience on the regulatory/testing end. Not sure what market you are specifically interested in, but feel free to email me.

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