How to Explore 1871 Tech Meetups Chicago

Chicago has long been a hub of innovation, entrepreneurship, and technological advancement. At the heart of this dynamic ecosystem lies 1871, a premier tech incubator and co-working space located in the Merchandise Mart. Since its founding in 2012, 1871 has become one of the most influential technology communities in the Midwest, fostering startups, connecting founders with mentors, and hosting a robust calendar of tech meetups that attract developers, designers, investors, and industry leaders from across the country.

Exploring 1871 Tech Meetups Chicago is more than attending an event—it’s about immersing yourself in a living network of innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned software engineer, a budding entrepreneur, a student exploring career paths, or a corporate professional seeking to stay ahead of emerging trends, these meetups offer unparalleled access to real-world insights, hands-on learning, and meaningful professional relationships.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to navigate, engage with, and maximize the value of 1871 Tech Meetups Chicago. From understanding the structure of events to leveraging networking opportunities, we’ll provide a comprehensive, step-by-step approach that transforms passive attendance into active participation. You’ll discover best practices, essential tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questions—all designed to help you build lasting connections and accelerate your growth within Chicago’s tech community.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand What 1871 Is and Why It Matters

Before diving into meetups, it’s critical to understand the foundation. 1871 is not just a building—it’s a mission-driven ecosystem. Named after the year Chicago was incorporated as a city, 1871 was created to revitalize the city’s entrepreneurial spirit by providing resources, mentorship, and infrastructure to early-stage tech companies. Today, it houses over 700 startups and hosts more than 150 events per month.

These events span a wide range of topics: artificial intelligence, fintech, cybersecurity, SaaS development, UX/UI design, blockchain, diversity in tech, and more. Many are organized by partner organizations like Women Who Code Chicago, Chicago Python Users Group, and Techstars Chicago, making 1871 a convergence point for niche communities.

Understanding this context helps you identify which meetups align with your goals—whether you’re looking to learn a new skill, find co-founders, recruit talent, or simply stay informed about market trends.

Step 2: Visit the Official 1871 Events Page

The most reliable source for upcoming events is the official 1871 Events Calendar: https://www.1871.com/events. This page is updated daily and includes filters for date, topic, audience type (e.g., founders, developers, students), and event format (in-person, virtual, hybrid).

Use the filters to narrow down your interests. For example, if you’re interested in machine learning, select “AI & Machine Learning” under the topic filter. If you’re a student, toggle “Students” under audience to see events tailored for early-career professionals.

Bookmark this page and set a weekly reminder to review new listings. Many high-demand events fill up quickly, especially those featuring well-known speakers or industry leaders.

Step 3: Create a Free 1871 Account

While you can browse events without an account, creating a free 1871 profile unlocks key features:

• One-click RSVP for events
• Event reminders via email or calendar sync
• Access to post-event resources like slides, recordings, and attendee lists
• Opportunities to join private Slack channels and discussion groups

To sign up, visit https://www.1871.com/join. Use your professional email (preferably linked to your LinkedIn or GitHub profile) to ensure authenticity. Your profile becomes your digital footprint within the community, so keep it updated with your current role, skills, and interests.

Step 4: Choose Events Aligned With Your Goals

Not every event is created equal. Before committing, ask yourself:

• What do I want to gain from this event? (Learning? Networking? Job opportunities?)
• Who is the speaker or host? Are they credible and relevant to my field?
• Is this event beginner-friendly or advanced?
• Will there be time for Q&A or breakout sessions?

For beginners, look for “Intro to…” or “Foundations of…” events. For experienced professionals, seek out deep-dive workshops, hackathons, or panel discussions featuring founders who’ve scaled companies.

Some recurring events worth noting:

• Startup Happy Hour – Every Thursday evening. Casual networking with founders, investors, and developers.
• Code & Coffee – Weekly coding sessions with peer feedback.
• Women in Tech Talks – Monthly panels featuring female leaders in tech.
• AI & Data Science Meetup – Bi-weekly presentations on real-world ML applications.
• Founder Fridays – Fireside chats with Chicago-based startup founders sharing their journeys.

Plan your calendar 2–4 weeks in advance. Block time not just for attendance but for preparation and follow-up.

Step 5: Prepare Before You Attend

Arriving unprepared is the most common mistake among first-time attendees. Here’s how to get ready:

• Research the speaker(s): Visit their LinkedIn, personal website, or recent publications. Prepare 1–2 thoughtful questions.
• Update your LinkedIn profile: Make sure your headline and summary reflect your current interests. Many attendees will look you up after the event.
• Prepare your elevator pitch: A 30-second introduction that explains who you are, what you do, and what you’re looking for. Example: “Hi, I’m Alex. I’m a full-stack developer building SaaS tools for small healthcare clinics. I’m exploring partnerships with data privacy experts.”
• Bring business cards or a digital alternative: Use apps like HiHello or LinkedIn QR codes for easy contact exchange.
• Charge your phone and bring a notebook: You’ll want to capture ideas, names, and follow-up actions.

Step 6: Engage Actively During the Event

Attendance is only the first step. Engagement determines your return on investment.

• Arrive early: The first 15–20 minutes are prime networking time. People are less crowded and more open to conversation.
• Ask open-ended questions: Instead of “Do you like working here?” try “What’s been the most surprising challenge in scaling your product?”
• Participate in Q&A: Even a short, thoughtful question positions you as engaged and curious.
• Join breakout groups: Many events include small-group discussions. Don’t stay in the back—move to the center.
• Use the event hashtag: Tweet or post on LinkedIn during the event. Tag the organizers and speakers. This increases visibility and often leads to direct connections.

Remember: People remember how you made them feel. Be curious, not transactional. Show genuine interest in others’ work.

Step 7: Follow Up Strategically After the Event

The real value of meetups happens after they end. According to industry data, 70% of meaningful professional relationships stem from post-event follow-up.

Within 24–48 hours:

• Send personalized LinkedIn requests: Reference something specific from your conversation: “Great chatting about your work on AI-driven logistics—your point about real-time inventory tracking resonated with my current project.”
• Share a takeaway: Post a short LinkedIn or Twitter thread summarizing one key insight from the event. Tag the speaker and 1871. This builds your credibility as a thoughtful participant.
• Offer value: If someone mentioned a resource they were looking for, send it. A relevant article, tool, or introduction. Reciprocity builds trust.
• Set calendar reminders: Schedule a check-in in 3–4 weeks. “Hi Sam, loved our chat at the AI meetup. I came across this open-source framework you might find useful—thought I’d share.”

Don’t spam. Be intentional. One thoughtful message is worth ten generic ones.

Step 8: Explore Membership and Volunteer Opportunities

If you find yourself attending regularly, consider deepening your involvement:

• Apply for a 1871 membership: While not required to attend public events, members get priority access, discounted workshops, and dedicated desk space. Visit https://www.1871.com/membership for options.
• Volunteer as an event helper: 1871 often needs help with registration, tech setup, or social media coverage. Volunteering gives you behind-the-scenes access and puts you in direct contact with organizers.
• Propose your own event: If you have expertise in a niche area, submit a proposal to host a meetup. 1871 encourages community-led events and provides logistical support.

Active contributors are often invited to speak at future events, featured in newsletters, and connected to exclusive investor rounds or incubator programs.

Step 9: Track Your Progress and Reflect

Keep a simple log of your attendance and outcomes:

• Date and event name
• Key takeaways (3 bullet points)
• People you met (name, role, connection)
• Follow-up actions completed
• Next steps or goals for next event

Review this log monthly. Over time, you’ll notice patterns: which topics excite you most, which people you connect with best, and how your network is growing. This reflection turns random attendance into a strategic career development plan.

Step 10: Stay Consistent and Build Momentum

Success in tech communities doesn’t come from one big event—it comes from consistent presence. Aim to attend at least one 1871 meetup per month. Over a year, that’s 12 events, 50+ new connections, and dozens of insights that can reshape your career trajectory.

Set a personal goal: “By the end of 2025, I will have spoken at one 1871 event and introduced three people in my network to each other.”

Consistency builds reputation. Reputation builds opportunity.

Best Practices

Be a Contributor, Not Just a Consumer

The most successful attendees aren’t the ones who take the most—they’re the ones who give the most. Share your knowledge. Answer questions. Recommend tools. Introduce people. In a community like 1871, generosity is currency.

Focus on Quality Over Quantity

It’s better to have 5 meaningful conversations than 20 superficial ones. Prioritize depth. Ask follow-up questions. Listen more than you speak. People remember those who made them feel heard.

Align Your Presence With Your Brand

Every interaction at a 1871 event contributes to your personal brand. Dress appropriately (business casual is standard). Be punctual. Respect time limits. Avoid oversharing personal details. Stay professional, even in casual settings.

Use the “Rule of Three” for Networking

At each event, aim to connect with three people:

• One peer (someone at your career stage)
• One mentor (someone more experienced)
• One potential collaborator (someone whose work complements yours)

This balanced approach ensures you’re building both support and opportunity networks.

Don’t Skip the After-Party

Many 1871 events end with informal hangouts at nearby cafes or bars. These are often where the most authentic connections happen. If you’re comfortable, stay. If not, send a quick message: “Had a great chat—let’s grab coffee next week?”

Respect Diversity and Inclusion

1871 is committed to inclusivity. Be mindful of language, pronouns, and cultural differences. Ask before assuming. If you’re unsure how to address someone, simply say, “How would you like to be referred to?”

Protect Your Time and Energy

It’s easy to overcommit. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to skip an event. Prioritize those that align with your current goals. Quality engagement trumps forced attendance.

Document and Share Learnings Publicly

Write a short blog post, LinkedIn article, or Twitter thread after each event. Summarize key insights, credit speakers, and tag 1871. This not only reinforces your learning but also establishes you as a thought leader in your niche.

Build Relationships, Not Just Contacts

A contact is a name in your phone. A relationship is someone who remembers you, refers you, and advocates for you. Nurture connections with consistent, low-pressure touchpoints: a helpful article, a congratulatory message, a shared resource.

Stay Curious, Not Competitive

Tech communities thrive on collaboration, not comparison. Celebrate others’ wins. Ask how you can help. The most successful people in tech are those who lift others up.

Know When to Step Back

If you’re not feeling energized by the events, it’s okay to take a break. Revisit after a few weeks. Sometimes, stepping away allows you to return with renewed focus and clarity.

Tools and Resources

Essential Digital Tools

• Calendly: Schedule follow-up coffee chats with new contacts. Use a link like “calendly.com/yourname/1871-networking” in your LinkedIn bio.
• Notion or Google Sheets: Track your meetup attendance, connections, and follow-ups. Create a simple database with columns: Date, Event, Person, Notes, Follow-Up Date.
• LinkedIn Sales Navigator (free trial): Use filters to find attendees of specific 1871 events and send personalized connection requests.
• HiHello or Adobe Express QR Cards: Generate a digital business card with your LinkedIn, portfolio, and contact info. Scan it with your phone to share instantly.
• Google Calendar: Sync all 1871 events. Enable notifications 1 day and 1 hour before.
• Pocket or Raindrop.io: Save articles, tools, or videos mentioned at events for later review.

Key Online Resources

• 1871 Events Calendar: https://www.1871.com/events – Your primary source for event listings.
• 1871 Blog: https://www.1871.com/blog – Read founder stories, industry trends, and event recaps.
• Chicago Tech News: https://chicagotechnews.com – Local tech news that often highlights upcoming 1871 events.
• Meetup.com: Search “1871 Chicago” for affiliated groups like Chicago DevOps, Chicago AI, and Chicago Women in Tech.
• Slack Communities: Many 1871 events have private Slack channels. Ask organizers for access after attending.
• YouTube – 1871 Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@1871 – Watch past talks, panels, and keynote speeches.

Physical Tools to Carry

• Small notebook and pen
• Portable phone charger
• Business cards (even if digital, physical ones still make an impression)
• Water bottle and snacks
• Comfortable shoes

Recommended Reading

• “The Start-Up of You” by Reid Hoffman – Learn how to treat your career like a startup.
• “Never Eat Alone” by Keith Ferrazzi – Master the art of relationship-building.
• “The Innovator’s Dilemma” by Clayton Christensen – Understand disruptive tech trends discussed at meetups.
• “Atomic Habits” by James Clear – Build consistent habits around attending and engaging.

Free Learning Platforms

Many 1871 speakers recommend these platforms for deeper learning:

• freeCodeCamp.org – Coding tutorials and projects
• Khan Academy – Computer Science – Foundational concepts
• Coursera – AI for Everyone (Andrew Ng) – Non-technical intro to AI
• YouTube – CS50 by Harvard – Free computer science course

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria, Recent Graduate, Found Her First Job

Maria graduated with a degree in computer science and moved to Chicago with no connections. She attended her first 1871 event—a “Career Path in Tech” panel—on a whim. She asked a question about transitioning from bootcamps to enterprise roles. After the event, she sent a LinkedIn message to one of the panelists, a senior engineer at a local fintech firm. They agreed to a 15-minute virtual coffee. She shared a small project she’d built on GitHub. Two weeks later, she was invited for an interview—and landed a junior developer role. She now volunteers at 1871’s “First-Time Coders” workshops.

Example 2: David, Corporate IT Manager, Launched a Side Project

David worked in enterprise IT but felt unfulfilled. He started attending 1871’s “Side Hustle Saturdays” to explore entrepreneurial ideas. At one event, he met a UX designer who was building a mental health app for healthcare workers. They collaborated on a prototype. Six months later, they applied to 1871’s startup accelerator and were accepted. Today, their app has 10,000+ users and is funded by a local angel investor.

Example 3: Priya, International Student, Built a Global Network

Priya, a graduate student from India, attended 1871’s “Global Tech Talent” meetup. She connected with a founder from Nigeria and a product manager from Germany. They started a weekly virtual discussion group on cross-border tech regulation. That group evolved into a podcast, “Tech Without Borders,” now hosted on Spotify with 5,000+ listeners. Priya’s LinkedIn profile now lists her as a “Tech Community Builder,” opening doors to international speaking opportunities.

Example 4: Jamal, Freelance Developer, Grew His Client Base

Jamal attended 1871’s “Freelancer Roundtable” and shared his struggles finding consistent clients. Another attendee, a marketing director at a SaaS startup, mentioned she needed a developer for a 3-month project. They exchanged details. Jamal delivered exceptional work. She referred him to two other companies. Within six months, his freelance income doubled. He now hosts his own monthly “Freelance Founders” meetup at 1871.

Example 5: The “Unplanned” Connection That Changed Everything

At a casual Startup Happy Hour, a developer from 1871 struck up a conversation with a stranger about their shared love of open-source tools. They ended up talking for two hours. The stranger was the founder of a small AI startup. A month later, he offered the developer a full-time role. The developer didn’t even apply—he was invited because of the connection made in a hallway.

These stories aren’t outliers. They’re the result of intentional presence, curiosity, and follow-through.

FAQs

Do I need to pay to attend 1871 Tech Meetups?

Most public 1871 meetups are free. Some specialized workshops or bootcamps may have a nominal fee ($10–$50), but these are clearly marked on the event page. Always check the “Ticket” section before RSVPing.

Can I attend if I’m not from Chicago?

Absolutely. 1871 welcomes attendees from across the country and internationally. Many events are hybrid, offering live-streaming options. Even if you’re remote, you can still network, ask questions via chat, and follow up afterward.

Are 1871 meetups only for tech founders?

No. While many events focus on startups, there are plenty tailored for developers, designers, marketers, students, corporate innovators, and even non-tech professionals interested in digital transformation.

How do I know if an event is in-person or virtual?

The event listing on 1871’s website clearly states the format. Look for icons or labels like “In-Person,” “Virtual,” or “Hybrid.” Hybrid events often include a Zoom link in the confirmation email after RSVP.

What should I wear to a 1871 meetup?

Business casual is standard—think collared shirts, blouses, slacks, or jeans with clean shoes. You don’t need a suit, but avoid overly casual attire like flip-flops or tank tops. Dressing slightly above the crowd makes a positive impression.

What if I’m shy or introverted?

You’re not alone. Many attendees feel the same. Start small: sit near the back, listen, and ask one question. Most people are eager to talk about their work. Bring a friend if it helps. You don’t need to be the loudest person in the room to make an impact.

Can I bring a guest to a 1871 event?

Some events allow guests, but most require individual RSVPs. Always check the event details. If guest spots are allowed, you’ll see an option to add a guest during registration.

How do I get invited to exclusive 1871 events?

Consistent attendance, active participation, and offering value (e.g., volunteering, speaking, sharing resources) often lead to invitations to members-only events, investor nights, or accelerator demos. Build your reputation over time.

Is there a minimum age to attend?

Most events are open to those 18 and older. Some youth-focused events (e.g., high school coding workshops) are clearly labeled. Always check the audience guidelines on the event page.

Can I record or livestream a 1871 event?

Recording is generally not permitted unless explicitly authorized by the organizer. Many events are recorded and posted afterward on the 1871 YouTube channel. Always ask permission before taking photos or sharing content.

Conclusion

Exploring 1871 Tech Meetups Chicago is not a one-time activity—it’s a long-term strategy for professional growth, community integration, and personal development. The value you extract from these events is directly proportional to the intentionality you bring to them.

From the moment you create your profile to the day you host your own event, each step builds momentum. The connections you make, the knowledge you absorb, and the confidence you gain will ripple across your career in ways you can’t yet imagine.

Chicago’s tech scene is thriving—not because of its buildings or funding, but because of its people. And you, right now, have the opportunity to become part of that story.

Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Start with one event. One conversation. One follow-up. The rest will follow.

Visit https://www.1871.com/events today. Choose one event this week. RSVP. Show up. Engage. And begin your journey in one of the most vibrant tech communities in the Midwest.