You may have the best idea in the world, but you may not be the best person to bring that idea to life. Perhaps you can craft a killer business plan but can’t code a webpage to save your life. Or maybe you’ve built a working prototype but don’t know how to get people using it or the money to scale it.
Then you’re probably in the market for a co-founder. While you may be able to turn to like-minded friends or co-workers, sometimes you’ll have to head somewhere new to help you find that special someone who will build your startup into a something great. Below, we rounded up some of Chicago’s best resources for finding a co-founder.
Meet some people with Meetup
Chicago’s tech scene is full of opportunities to meet your fellow tech faithfuls or run into your future co-founder. Meetup’s tech section is a great place to start. You can attend a wide range of meetings that focus on specific tech topics. If you’re looking for a technical co-founder, attending developer meetups is a great place to find talented individuals who are engaged in the community.
But don't pass on more structured events
If you’re looking for something a little more structured, check out events like those listed on Built In Chicago’s events page. There, you can find panels hosted by some of Chicago’s most successful startups and sessions led by founders who’ve likely gone through the same things you’ll struggle with. You may even be able to gab with speakers for more targeted advice.
Take the dating approach
Advances in the dating world may help you find a co-founder who doesn't have time for a meetup. Sites like founder2be and CoFoundersLab let you build a profile with your skills and ideas, and their algorithms match you up with potential co-founders based on what you’re looking for. CoFoundersLab also has local events to help you meet those people in person and even helps you find advisors and interns to help you beyond just finding the co-founder.
Turn to the professionals
Just because you’re starting something new doesn’t mean you have to learn all your lessons by yourself. Northwestern University and the University of Chicago have both produced a huge number of co-founders that have helped build Chicago into the tech hub it is today. Reach out to local universities’ innovation hubs or attend their events to find young talent that could bring fresh ideas to your fledgling business.
Seek out a community
You can also hang around spots that foster a lot of budding young entrepreneurs, like 1871, where you’re likely to rub elbows with plenty of interested and talented people. You may even want to head to an entrepreneur’s favorite coffee shop to “accidentally” bump into your dream co-founder.
Image via Shutterstock
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