A Founder-First Call to Action for the Next Generation of Innovation
Today, we plant a flag. Not for any one city or institution, but for every dreamer, builder, and problem-solver across Illinois who dares to create something from nothing. Today, we launch the Illinois Startup Manifesto—a shared vision, a rallying cry, and a declaration of the ecosystem we’re choosing to build together.
We’re in a liminal moment—the space between what is and what could be. And in this moment, we hold the most powerful tool possible: choice.
We can choose to stay in the comfort of the status quo. Or we can choose to build something bold. Something generous. Something future-facing. We choose the latter.
Why Now?
Illinois has always been a place where world-changing ideas are born. From penicillin in Peoria to Rivian in Normal. From the web browser in Champaign to skyscrapers in Chicago. From food innovation in Decatur to next-gen AI, biotech, and climate tech being built across the state right now—Illinois has always had the builders. The doers. The daring.
The problem isn’t potential. It’s alignment. It’s connection. It’s courage. And now, it’s choice.
We can honor our legacy by building the next chapter together—as one startup community, statewide and founder-first.
What the Manifesto Stands For
The Illinois Startup Manifesto is a bold articulation of what a thriving, founder-led ecosystem should look like—not in theory, but in practice. Here’s what we believe:
Founders first. Always. The ecosystem exists to support founders—not the other way around.
Ego last. Bridges first. Silos are out. Collaboration is survival.
Give first. Give back. Momentum compounds when generosity becomes the norm.
Curated serendipity. The best connections aren’t accidental—they’re engineered.
Mental health is non-negotiable. The struggle is real. So is the community here to support it.
Failure is not shame. It’s tuition. It’s data. It’s a step forward.
We are one ecosystem. Cities, campuses, and coworking spaces—all connected.
We are Illinois innovation. And the world is watching.
With the manifesto comes a personal commitment: The Illinois Startup Oath.
This is a pledge for founders, mentors, investors, educators, and allies—anyone who wants to help shape a startup community that puts people over ego, generosity over gatekeeping, and integrity over shortcuts.
Read the Oath. Sign it. Live it.
When you sign the Illinois Startup Oath, you’re not just agreeing with ideas. You’re committing to actions—big and small—that create the conditions for founders to thrive.
What’s Next?
This is just the beginning. In the coming weeks and months, you’ll see this movement come to life through founder-first events, statewide challenges, shared digital infrastructure, fellowship programs, and new pathways to scale.
But most importantly, this only works if you join us.
Whether you’re a seasoned investor, a student with an idea, or a community member cheering from the sidelines, you have a role to play in shaping what comes next.
This Is Our Moment
Illinois has what it takes. We’ve proved it before, and we’ll prove it again—this time, together.
The choice is ours. The time is now. Let’s build something the world can’t ignore.