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Joey Mak

Diversifying VC and tech in Chicago

Joey Mak is a prominent figure in Chicago's business and nonprofit sectors, currently serving as the CEO of Chicago, an award-winning nonprofit organization.1 He joined The Economic Club of Chicago as a Member in March 2023 and continues to hold this position.1

Professional Experience

Joey Mak has an extensive background in economic development, innovation, and entrepreneurship:

  • CEO at Chicago: He has been leading this organization since April 2023, after serving as its Executive Director from March 2021 to April 2023.1
  • Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce: Mak worked as the Vice President of Programs from February 2018 to March 2021.1
  • University of Illinois System: He held positions as Director of Economic Development & Innovation and Assistant Director of Economic Development between 2012 and 2018.1
  • Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity: Mak served in roles related to entrepreneurship, innovation, and technology.1
  • Office of Governor Pat Quinn, State of Illinois: He worked as an Assistant to the Chief of Staff from 2009 to 2011.1

Education

Joey Mak's educational background includes:

  • MBA from the Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (2013-2015)1
  • Bachelor of Science in Anthropology from Loyola University Chicago (2003-2007)1

Languages

Mak is proficient in two languages:

  • English: Native or bilingual proficiency
  • Khmer: Limited working proficiency1

Recent Activities

Joey Mak is actively involved in various initiatives:

  • He recently celebrated his three-year "Blendiversary" with Chicago, reflecting on his experiences and connections made through the organization.24
  • Mak is engaged in efforts to support women in business and startups in Chicago.5
  • He has been involved in events related to venture capital and startup ecosystems.3

Through his diverse experiences and current leadership role, Joey Mak continues to contribute to Chicago's business and innovation landscape while maintaining his membership in The Economic Club of Chicago.

Highlights

Sep 13 · linkedin

Great seeing so many friends and new faces at last night's private screening of Show Her The Money, hosted by Wells Fargo and Deloitte.

Afterward, Wells Fargo's Kristina Connolly moderated a live panel with the film's executive producer Bridgette L. Smith 🦋, Constance Freedman (Moderne Ventures), and Tracy Harrison (Deloitte), which offered powerful insights.

Key takeaways: 🤝 Founders often need a confidence boost, not just capital and connections. 🧠 Imposter syndrome and fear are common among founders, so in addition to offering mentorship, empathy is important too. 👀 Most eye-popping panelist comment: "When I was fundraising, I can't tell you the number of LP's who took the meeting just because they wanted to ask me out on date." 🚹 How men can support women in startups: Invest in women-led ventures, make introductions, practice inclusive meeting norms (i.e., don't host every company outing at a golf course or cigar lounge!), and use your expertise to help women entrepreneurs.

Shoutout to our Chicago:Blend VC Fellows and alums who attended: Eseosa Osaghae, Shalina Clarke, Ibrahim Rashid, MPP, Zimri Rodriguez, Pamela Taylor

🙏 And big thanks to the event organizers for hosting: John Huber Neuman Osman Kristina Connolly Tracy Harrison Suzanne Joyce (she/her)

#ShowHerTheMoney #WomenInTech #Entrepreneurship #VC #VentureCapital #ChicagoBlend

Aug 29 · linkedin

🎥 If you haven't seen the film Show Her The Money, join our friends at Wells Fargo and Deloitte on Sep. 12 for a private screening of this powerful documentary about the challenges women face in raising capital, followed by a discussion with Executive Producer Bridgette L. Smith 🦋 and Constance Freedman of Moderne Ventures.

I saw the film back in June and left feeling so inspired. It is a must-see for anyone interested in bridging the gender gap in #venturecapital and #entrepreneurship. Hope to see you there!

🗓 Wednesday, Sep. 12, 2024 🕓  4:00 - 7:00 PM 📍 Deloitte Tower, 111 S. Wacker Drive, 27th Floor, Chicago, IL 🎟 RSVP at https://lnkd.in/e8Yun6eT

🙏 Many thanks to the Wells Fargo and Deloitte team for hosting: Neuman Osman Matt Servatius John Huber Sam Arenson Tracy Harrison Suzanne Joyce (she/her)

Related Questions

What is Chicago:Blend's mission and impact?
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What are some notable achievements of Joey Mak at Chicago:Blend?
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What initiatives has Joey Mak launched at The Economic Club of Chicago?
Joey Mak
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Location

Greater Chicago Area