Wintrust Ventures was formed to encourage and support Chicago's innovative community with guidance and investment options for venture start-ups. It is a subset of Wintrust Financial, a community-oriented personal and commercial financial services provider with 15 wholly owned banking subsidaries across greater Chicago, IL and southern Wisconsin. Wintrust Ventures has partnerships with entrepreneurs in B2B, technolgy, e-commerce, AI, analytics, SaaS, and many other areas. While its sector focus is generally agnostic, Wintrust Ventures focuses on start-ups with its head quarters or other nexus in the Chicago area.
Eventnoire is a provider of an event management platform that simplifies the complexities of organizing events. The platform offers a suite of tools for online event registration, venue selection, and event management, as well as mobile applications and email marketing services tailored to users' needs. In addition to these functionalities, Eventnoire serves as a resource for event marketers, allowing them to promote their events to consumers based on interests and relevance. By tracking sales and optimizing marketing campaigns, Eventnoire enables event planners and organizations to enhance brand visibility and effectively engage with their target audience.
Tractor Zoom
Series A in 2022
Tractor Zoom, Inc. operates an online marketplace that connects farm equipment auctioneers with buyers, facilitating the purchase and sale of agricultural machinery. Founded in 2017 and based in Urbandale, Iowa, the company offers a mobile application that allows auctioneers to list and promote their auctions while enabling buyers to search for and browse available farm equipment. The platform streamlines the auction advertising process, making it easier for users to access auction inventory nationwide. Tractor Zoom is dedicated to helping agricultural leaders make informed, data-driven decisions regarding the buying, selling, financing, and insuring of heavy equipment.
Sifter SP
Seed Round in 2022
Sifter is a new app and website that empowers people to discover products that fit their personal wellness preferences.
Cohesion
Series A in 2021
Cohesion is an information technology company that specializes in a smart building software platform designed to unify building data, operations, and tenant experiences. The platform integrates various building systems and workflows, leveraging the Internet of Things and machine learning to provide actionable insights. This integration allows real estate owners to enhance asset and portfolio value while improving building health, security, and operational efficiency. Additionally, Cohesion incorporates sustainability into its operations, enabling building owners and operators to reduce costs, elevate tenant experiences, and achieve greater operational transparency. Through its comprehensive approach, Cohesion empowers stakeholders to better manage and optimize their properties.
The Mom Project
Series B in 2020
The Mom Project, Inc. is a digital marketplace that connects women, particularly mothers, with employment opportunities across various sectors, including marketing, finance, technology, and project management. Founded in 2015 and based in Cincinnati, Ohio, the company serves a community of over 500,000 individuals, including moms, dads, and allies, facilitating access to flexible work arrangements at both large corporations and small businesses. In addition to matching job seekers with employers, The Mom Project also provides insights and recommendations to companies on improving workplace conditions for women, aiming to foster a more supportive environment for mothers while redefining traditional career structures.
Packback
Series B in 2019
Packback, Inc. is an education technology company based in Chicago, Illinois, that operates an artificial intelligence-driven platform designed to enhance critical thinking skills among college students. Founded in 2014, Packback offers two primary products: PB Books, which provides online textbooks on a rental basis, and PB Questions, a digital discussion platform that facilitates online interactions between students and professors. The platform aims to foster a deeper engagement with subject matter, promote personalized learning experiences, and enable educators to assess and improve students' critical thinking abilities effectively. By leveraging its proprietary AI, Packback supports mastery-based learning and sound pedagogical practices in higher education.
The Mom Project
Series A in 2018
The Mom Project, Inc. is a digital marketplace that connects women, particularly mothers, with employment opportunities across various sectors, including marketing, finance, technology, and project management. Founded in 2015 and based in Cincinnati, Ohio, the company serves a community of over 500,000 individuals, including moms, dads, and allies, facilitating access to flexible work arrangements at both large corporations and small businesses. In addition to matching job seekers with employers, The Mom Project also provides insights and recommendations to companies on improving workplace conditions for women, aiming to foster a more supportive environment for mothers while redefining traditional career structures.
OneCause (formerly BidPal)
Venture Round in 2018
BidPal has rebranded as OneCause. Raise more money and reach more donors with OneCause Fundraising Software and BidPal Mobile Bidding. Located in the technology hub of Indianapolis, OneCause has been recognized on the Inc. 500 list of Fastest Growing Companies and has received a Techpoint MIRA award for Mobile Technology Excellence & Innovation. The company’s fundraising technology includes: Mobile Bidding, Online Fundraising, Peer to Peer Fundraising, Event Software, Payment Processing, Online Ticketing, Mobile Donations, Text2Give, and Registration and Checkout software.
Brideside
Seed Round in 2018
Brideside, Inc. is an online retail company based in Chicago, Illinois, specializing in bridesmaid dresses and related apparel. Founded in 2012, the company offers a diverse selection of customized bridesmaid dresses, maternity dresses, and accessories, including earrings, necklaces, bracelets, belts, and headbands. Brideside aims to enhance the bridal shopping experience by providing a user-friendly online marketplace where customers can browse and purchase fashionable options that align with their style and budget. By focusing on wedding-related fashion, Brideside serves a global clientele, making it easier for individuals to find trendy attire for their bridal parties.
Monica+Andy
Series A in 2018
Monica+Andy operates an online platform specializing in baby clothing, offering a range of GOTS-certified organic apparel and accessories. Founded in 2014 by Monica Royer, a first-time mother, the brand focuses on providing soft, sustainable essentials that prioritize both the well-being of children and environmental responsibility. The company emphasizes a seamless shopping experience for parents, featuring both an online store and physical Guideshops. Monica+Andy is dedicated to creating a community that values safe, non-toxic materials, ensuring that their products are free from pesticides and harmful chemicals. Through its commitment to quality and sustainability, the brand aims to support real-life families while fostering a better future for both babies and the planet.
Packback
Series A in 2018
Packback, Inc. is an education technology company based in Chicago, Illinois, that operates an artificial intelligence-driven platform designed to enhance critical thinking skills among college students. Founded in 2014, Packback offers two primary products: PB Books, which provides online textbooks on a rental basis, and PB Questions, a digital discussion platform that facilitates online interactions between students and professors. The platform aims to foster a deeper engagement with subject matter, promote personalized learning experiences, and enable educators to assess and improve students' critical thinking abilities effectively. By leveraging its proprietary AI, Packback supports mastery-based learning and sound pedagogical practices in higher education.
Dunami
Convertible Note in 2017
Dunami, Inc. specializes in real-time data analysis software tailored for the intelligence, defense, and law enforcement sectors. The firm provides comprehensive analytical and training services, alongside producing various analysis products, papers, presentations, and assessments on relevant topics. Established in 2012, Dunami focuses on social media intelligence, helping clients navigate social media and big data sources to identify critical customer segments, referred to as "channels." Utilizing advanced proprietary mathematics, the company's software analyzes social media networks to pinpoint influential members within these channels, enabling clients to effectively engage with key audiences that matter to their operations. Originally known as PATHAR, Inc., the company rebranded to Dunami, Inc. in December 2017 and is headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas, with operations also based in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
SmartPay Solutions
Series B in 2017
SmartPay Solutions LLC, founded in 2010 and based in Southington, Connecticut, specializes in providing a cloud-based software solution for pay-as-you-go workers’ compensation plans. The SmartPay platform is designed for insurance carriers, independent agents, and payroll providers, offering a flexible and user-friendly system that enables immediate access to essential services. The company's technology aims to streamline the workers' compensation process, ensuring that it meets the diverse needs of its clients. By leveraging innovative software, SmartPay Solutions enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of pay-as-you-go workers’ compensation administration.
Curiosity
Series A in 2017
Curiosityis a award winning curiosity daily podcast will help you learn more about the world around you every day. You'll get a unique combination of research-based life hacks, the latest science and technology news, and more in less than 10 minutes. Cody gough and ashley hamer of discovery will teach you about your mind and body, outer space and the ocean depths, and how history transformed the world into what it is today.
Rewards21
Series A in 2016
Rewards21, Inc. operates a rewards program that allows clients to earn cash back and reward points for dining at selected restaurants. Utilizing card-linked technology, registered consumers can receive cash back by using their credit or debit cards at participating establishments. The program also extends to hotel, airline, and rental car options, enhancing the rewards experience. Users collect points through their dining activities, with the ability to convert 2,100 points into $21 credited directly to their card. Founded in 2015, Rewards21 is headquartered in Arlington Heights, Illinois, and aims to provide a convenient and engaging way for consumers to benefit from their dining choices while supporting partner businesses.
Dunami
Series A in 2016
Dunami, Inc. specializes in real-time data analysis software tailored for the intelligence, defense, and law enforcement sectors. The firm provides comprehensive analytical and training services, alongside producing various analysis products, papers, presentations, and assessments on relevant topics. Established in 2012, Dunami focuses on social media intelligence, helping clients navigate social media and big data sources to identify critical customer segments, referred to as "channels." Utilizing advanced proprietary mathematics, the company's software analyzes social media networks to pinpoint influential members within these channels, enabling clients to effectively engage with key audiences that matter to their operations. Originally known as PATHAR, Inc., the company rebranded to Dunami, Inc. in December 2017 and is headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas, with operations also based in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
SmartPay Solutions
Series A in 2016
SmartPay Solutions LLC, founded in 2010 and based in Southington, Connecticut, specializes in providing a cloud-based software solution for pay-as-you-go workers’ compensation plans. The SmartPay platform is designed for insurance carriers, independent agents, and payroll providers, offering a flexible and user-friendly system that enables immediate access to essential services. The company's technology aims to streamline the workers' compensation process, ensuring that it meets the diverse needs of its clients. By leveraging innovative software, SmartPay Solutions enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of pay-as-you-go workers’ compensation administration.
Dryv
Series A in 2016
DRYV LLC offers an on-demand dry cleaning and laundry service through an online platform and mobile application, allowing users to schedule pickups and deliveries conveniently. Founded in 2013 and based in Chicago, Illinois, the company serves neighborhoods in Chicago, Detroit, and Los Angeles. DRYV enables customers to request service at their convenience, with pickups typically occurring within an hour. The clothes are then cleaned in an eco-friendly facility, allowing for same-day service. As of November 2020, DRYV operates as a subsidiary of Rinse, Inc.
Page Vault
Series A in 2016
Page Vault Inc. is a Chicago-based company that offers a cloud-based software solution designed for legal professionals to capture web content, including social media, corporate websites, and blog posts, in a forensically defensible and legally admissible manner. Founded in 2013, the platform enables users to archive web pages as they appear online, preserving essential metadata and generating easily printable PDF documents. This service is utilized by a diverse clientele, including law firms, government offices, corporate legal departments, insurance providers, and legal consultants, across various fields such as intellectual property, family law, and compliance. Page Vault's solution simplifies the process of capturing web content, providing a trusted third-party chain of custody that meets the needs of professionals requiring reliable evidence for use in U.S. courts.
UrbanBound
Series B in 2016
UrbanBound, LLC is a provider of relocation management software that facilitates the relocation process for employers and employees. The platform allows users to manage and track all aspects of job-related moves, offering tools for reviewing and utilizing relocation benefits. It includes features for attracting job candidates by highlighting company culture and location, as well as specialized software for managing intern relocations. UrbanBound also provides resources for employee education and onboarding, along with reporting tools to analyze relocation expenses and streamline tax processes. Founded in 2011 and based in Chicago, Illinois, UrbanBound serves a diverse clientele, including Fortune 500 companies and startups, by offering a tech-driven, efficient approach to employee relocation that enhances the overall experience while reducing costs.
Prism Analytical Technologies
Venture Round in 2016
Prism Analytical Technologies, Inc. is a consultative air testing company located in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, offering a range of air testing services for residential, commercial, and industrial environments in the United States and internationally. Founded in 1992, the company specializes in Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR) stack testing, indoor air quality assessments, and volatile organic compound (VOC) analysis. Additionally, Prism provides services for mold VOCs, fire and smoke investigations, odor investigations, formaldehyde testing, and material off-gassing analysis. The company is recognized for its commitment to superior testing methodologies and exceptional customer service, serving numerous Fortune 100 and 500 companies as well as a wide array of industrial hygiene professionals.
Bucketfeet
Convertible Note in 2016
BucketFeet, Inc., based in Chicago, Illinois, is a direct-to-consumer footwear brand that specializes in artist-designed shoes for men, women, and children. Founded in 2011, the company collaborates with a global community of artists to create unique, limited-edition sneakers, with each pair featuring a different artist's design. BucketFeet operates an online platform where customers can order shoes that are printed only after they are purchased, thus reducing unnecessary environmental waste associated with traditional manufacturing cycles. In addition to footwear, the company also offers apparel such as tees, hoodies, and socks. Through its innovative approach, BucketFeet aims to foster meaningful conversations and empower artists to share their stories through the medium of shoes, serving as a canvas for diverse artistic expression. As of late 2017, BucketFeet operates as a subsidiary of SkinnyCorp, LLC.
Unitas Global
Series B in 2016
Unitas Global LLC is a technology company that specializes in designing, deploying, and managing cloud infrastructure and networking solutions for enterprises. Founded in 2011 and based in Los Angeles, California, the company focuses on global cloud access, enterprise connectivity, and hybrid and multi-cloud environments. Unitas Global provides a platform-based managed network service that connects various cloud providers, carrier-neutral data centers, SaaS applications, and edge access networks, creating a comprehensive interconnection fabric that serves millions of commercial locations. The company's offerings include end-to-end network design, managed public cloud services, remote monitoring and management, and optimized internet protocol solutions, allowing clients to enhance their IT consumption with innovative and secure services. Unitas Global collaborates with major partners such as AWS, Cisco, Dell, QTS, and Microsoft Azure to deliver effective solutions tailored to both large and small enterprises.
Rippleshot
Seed Round in 2015
Rippleshot, Inc. is a Chicago-based company that specializes in cloud-based predictive technology solutions designed to detect payment card data breaches. Founded in 2012, Rippleshot provides a range of services aimed at helping card issuers, processors, and merchants monitor suspicious activities and manage fraud risk effectively. Its offerings include Rippleshot Community, which assists credit unions and banks in identifying local and national breaches; Rippleshot National, a tool for fraud analysts to enhance card re-issuing strategies; Rippleshot Merchant, which allows store owners to track and assess data breaches through a user-friendly portal; and Rippleshot ISO, which helps acquirers monitor merchant data breach threats daily. The company’s technology leverages big data analytics and machine learning to reduce fraud losses significantly, ensuring timely detection of breaches and protection of consumer payment experiences.
Bucketfeet
Series A in 2015
BucketFeet, Inc., based in Chicago, Illinois, is a direct-to-consumer footwear brand that specializes in artist-designed shoes for men, women, and children. Founded in 2011, the company collaborates with a global community of artists to create unique, limited-edition sneakers, with each pair featuring a different artist's design. BucketFeet operates an online platform where customers can order shoes that are printed only after they are purchased, thus reducing unnecessary environmental waste associated with traditional manufacturing cycles. In addition to footwear, the company also offers apparel such as tees, hoodies, and socks. Through its innovative approach, BucketFeet aims to foster meaningful conversations and empower artists to share their stories through the medium of shoes, serving as a canvas for diverse artistic expression. As of late 2017, BucketFeet operates as a subsidiary of SkinnyCorp, LLC.
Monica+Andy
Venture Round in 2015
Monica+Andy operates an online platform specializing in baby clothing, offering a range of GOTS-certified organic apparel and accessories. Founded in 2014 by Monica Royer, a first-time mother, the brand focuses on providing soft, sustainable essentials that prioritize both the well-being of children and environmental responsibility. The company emphasizes a seamless shopping experience for parents, featuring both an online store and physical Guideshops. Monica+Andy is dedicated to creating a community that values safe, non-toxic materials, ensuring that their products are free from pesticides and harmful chemicals. Through its commitment to quality and sustainability, the brand aims to support real-life families while fostering a better future for both babies and the planet.
Packback
Seed Round in 2015
Packback, Inc. is an education technology company based in Chicago, Illinois, that operates an artificial intelligence-driven platform designed to enhance critical thinking skills among college students. Founded in 2014, Packback offers two primary products: PB Books, which provides online textbooks on a rental basis, and PB Questions, a digital discussion platform that facilitates online interactions between students and professors. The platform aims to foster a deeper engagement with subject matter, promote personalized learning experiences, and enable educators to assess and improve students' critical thinking abilities effectively. By leveraging its proprietary AI, Packback supports mastery-based learning and sound pedagogical practices in higher education.
Energi
Series B in 2014
Energi offers insurance programs along with support services to reduce the client’s long-term loss costs and enhance their productivity. Energi delivers these products through a regional distribution strategy supported by in-house sales professionals working in conjunction with 450+ independent brokers appointed in key markets. Energi Insurance Services (EIS) is the leading provider of insurance programs for targeted sectors in the United States and Canada. EIS insurance programs provide traditional property and casualty insurance coverage and related risk management services. Energi’s insurance products are underwritten by leading worldwide insurers that maintain the highest ratings, including AM Best. EIS’ insurance risk management expertise enabled the development of differentiated safety, loss prevention, and claims management services. These services are available to the broader market through eServices. eServices is a specialized platform focused on providing turnkey risk management, claims, marketing, and technology solutions through its various entities. eServices’ unique and acclaimed services deliver small and middle-market companies with mechanisms to manage exposures, drive down losses, and reduce expenses.
Lumere
Series A in 2014
Lumere, Inc. is a Chicago-based organization that offers a cloud-based platform designed to assist hospitals and healthcare providers in reducing clinical variation and minimizing costs related to medical devices and pharmaceuticals. The company provides a suite of tools, including Product Introduction Management, which refines the device vetting process using clinical evidence and industry best practices. Its Category Optimization service integrates clinical insights and market intelligence to identify savings opportunities within health systems. Additionally, Lumere's Variation Management analyzes procedural utilization data to evaluate how medical devices are used by physicians, while its Utilization Management combines relevant clinical information with prescriber patterns to optimize drug spending. The organization also offers physician advisory services to foster collaboration between clinicians and hospital leadership. Lumere was incorporated in 2012 and operates as a subsidiary of Global Healthcare Exchange, LLC.
Gesture
Series A in 2014
Gesture, LLC operates an online mobile fundraising platform designed for charities, nonprofits, schools, churches, and political organizations. Established in 2011 and located in Westmont, Illinois, Gesture offers a range of services, including mobile bidding for silent auctions, guest management for ticket sales, and tools for direct donations. Its platform allows organizations to efficiently manage events with features such as expedited check-in and checkout, real-time dashboards for tracking user activity and revenue, and comprehensive post-event reporting. Gesture's technology enables clients to maximize revenue through various fundraising activities, including school auctions and charity events. With a focus on user-friendly, PCI-compliant solutions, Gesture's team of experts also provides support in organizing and executing successful fundraising initiatives.
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