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| 26 Sep 2025 | |
| WIB-Chicago News |
| WIB-Chicago |
On September 26, 2025, Women In Bio Chicago hosted its 11th Annual Start-Up Challenge at mHUB in Chicago, bringing together more than 90 attendees for an evening celebrating women entrepreneurs shaping the start-up landscape. The event kicked off with an intimate VIP session to thank chapter sponsors, featuring remarks from Xentria. The main program began with opening remarks from Marshall Gerstein, Promega, and Husch Blackwell, concluding with a memorable Stevie Nicks quote—“Don’t be a lady, be a legend”—which perfectly captured this year’s theme: Women Rocking the Start-Up World. The pitches were dynamic and engaging, showcasing innovative ventures led by women founders. Jessica Fried of Flow Medical was named the Judges’ Winner, while Valerie Obenchain, Founder of AIRS, received the Audience Choice Award. Guests enjoyed a lively atmosphere, complete with great food, a chocolate fountain, and a talented bartender. WIB CEO Gina Ford attended, noting it as one of the strongest yet. With record sponsorship and its largest turnout to date, the 2025 Start-Up Challenge proved to be a powerful showcase of innovation, leadership, and community within Chicago’s biotech and start-up ecosystem.
Submitted by Genesis Chase
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