Crain's 2026 Most Innovative Companies

Crain's Chicago Business spotlights the organizations redefining what's possible in business through technology, strategy and bold problem solving. This fall's Most Innovative Companies event puts that spirit of innovation front and center, with programming exploring how Chicago's top companies are building competitive advantage through innovation.

University of Chicago President Paul Alivisatos joins Crain's John Pletz for a conversation on how Chicago is building an innovation ecosystem and working to turn more breakthrough research into world-changing companies. He’ll speak to how AI in science is transforming the potential for discovery, ongoing efforts to build on Chicago’s entrepreneurial strengths, and how the area’s research and business communities can push each other further.

Join Chicago's business community for an afternoon focused on the ideas and leadership shaping what comes next.