Innovation isn’t just for Silicon Valley. It’s thriving in communities across the country, and Chicago is a hub for groundbreaking ideas and collaboration. In this episode of the Speaking of Phenomenal podcast, Amy Boyle sits down with Laura Jordan LeClair, Director of Mentoring and Inclusion Programs at Chicago Innovation, to discuss how mentorship, inclusion, and connection fuel innovation—not just in Chicago but beyond.
A Gateway to Innovation
Before joining Chicago Innovation, Laura worked in the sports industry and had never heard of the organization, despite being a Chicago native. “I came across it, and it opened up my eyes and my horizons to just an unbelievable community of innovative people spanning industries from high tech to low tech,” she shares.
Chicago Innovation, which has been around for over 23 years, shines a spotlight on new products and services, particularly through its annual awards. “It really takes the spotlight away from Silicon Valley and puts it on the amazing things going on in Chicago and our region,” Laura explains. But their impact extends beyond awards. Monthly events such as Taste of Innovation (focused on food and beverage advancements) and AI + IQ (an exploration of artificial intelligence) highlight industry trends shaping the future.
More Than a Buzzword: The Mentorship Movement
Mentorship is at the heart of Chicago Innovation’s programming. “It’s more than a buzz; it’s a movement,” Laura emphasizes. The organization runs three key mentoring and inclusion programs:
The Women’s Mentoring Co-op: Launched in 2016, this initiative connects women with mentors to support career growth and leadership development.
The Ladder: Designed for Black and Latina professionals, this program fosters career advancement through mentorship and skill-building.
Ageless Innovators: A co-mentoring model that pairs professionals across generations, proving that learning and innovation aren’t tied to a single career stage.
“Mentorship is vital. It’s only becoming more critical that women stand up and connect with each other,” Laura says. “Sometimes you don’t have that support in your own company, so having external connections is crucial.”
Beyond Chicago: Why This Matters Everywhere
The power of mentorship and inclusion extends far beyond Chicago. Programs like these provide a roadmap for other cities to create stronger, more connected professional networks. Laura highlights a common issue: “Women often feel they need to meet 80% of a job’s qualifications before applying, while men might apply with only 30%. That’s why mentorship matters—it helps women recognize the strengths they already have.”
For those hesitant to seek mentorship, Laura offers advice: “Mentorship doesn’t always have to be formal. Some of my mentors don’t even know they’re my mentors. It’s about finding people who align with your values and being open to learning.”
The Future of Innovation is Inclusive
As workplaces evolve and industries shift, innovation will depend on diverse perspectives. “The need for connection and support is only growing,” Laura says. “Whether you’re launching a startup, switching careers, or figuring out your next step, now is the time to build your community.”
What’s Your Next Step?
Innovation starts with connection. If you’re in Chicago, check out upcoming events like Innovating Chicago on March 19. Looking for mentorship? Applications for The Women’s Mentoring Co-op opens March 25—find your opportunity to grow.
Other Ways to Engage
Chicago Innovation offers year-round programming, mentorship opportunities, and events designed to connect, educate, and celebrate innovators across industries. Be sure to subscribe to our monthly newsletter and receive information on all of our programming and events! If you know of an innovative product or service that was created in the Chicago region in the last 4 years, don't forget to nominate for the Chicago Innovation Awards this summer! Whether you’re an entrepreneur, corporate leader, or creative thinker, there’s a place for you in the Chicago Innovation community.
Learn more and get involved at chicagoinnovation.com
Not in Chicago? Start where you are. Look for local innovation hubs, networking events, or mentorship opportunities in your community. Reach out to someone whose work inspires you. Send that LinkedIn message. Make the introduction. As Laura reminds us, “The most powerful thing we can do is connect with each other.”
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