Amazon is doubling its headcount in Chicago. The e-commerce and cloud computing giant will add 400 people to its downtown office, with plans to expand the space. They'll join teams working on Amazon Web Services — the company's biggest profit driver — Amazon Marketing and the company’s transportation and operations division. [Built In Chicago]
Chris Gladwin announced plans to make Chicago a top-tier tech hub. Despite its size, Chicago lags behind some smaller markets in tech startups, fundings and talent retention. Gladwin, founder of Cleversafe and Ocient, wants to change that through a long-term, strategic plan, dubbed P33. Backed by Penny Pritzker and 200 Chicago business and community leaders, the initiative will kick off at a private event Oct. 24. [Chicago Inno]
VC firm KB Partners raised $40 million to invest in sports technology. The Highland Park-based firm said it will provide seed and Series A funding to startups in connected fitness and health and wellness tech, but also e-sports, fantasy sports and sports betting. [Chicago Inno via ACBJ]
Fusion Risk Management appointed Michael Campbell as CEO. Campbell brings more than 35 years of software development experience, including his time as CEO of International Decision Systems. Fusion founder David Nolan will serve as strategic advisor. The addition comes after the company received an undisclosed amount of capital from Vista Equity Partners. [Press release]
Technology consulting firm Saggezza partnered with Ryan Banks Academy to teach coding to kids. As part of its “0Gravity” program, Saggezza employees will help middle school students learn to code using the online game creation softwares Roblox, Roblox Studio and Code Kingdoms. Ryan Banks Academy is Chicago's first tuition-free private school. [ABC7 Chicago]
