
The Winners
The 4th Annual Big Idea Awards are back and we’re looking for the city’s top thinkers to showcase their ideas at this ingenious event.
Keynote Speaker:
Mark Lawrence
Co-Founder & CEO of SpotHero
Get Noticed
Get your new product, invention or up-and-coming business in front of a large audience of influencers and tastemakers at our event, plus gain exposure in print and online via The Chicago Tribune.
Get Networked
Present your brainchild to fellow idea-makers and entrepreneurs. You never know who you might meet!
Get Prizes
Continue to grow your idea and get recognized by your audience by marketing your idea through the Chicago Tribune Media Group portfolio.
YOU WIN. YOU CHOOSE.
2018 Big Idea Awards prizes are here to help you grow your business, get your idea noticed, and get networked with like-minded individuals. Win them all or choose which ones fit your unique business needs!*

Up To$15,000
Gain exposure through trusted print and digital advertising options to target your ideal audience.

Up To$10,000
Launch your idea with a Premium Advanced package, including pitch decks, workshop access, and networking opportunities.

Up To$6,150
Get the workspace you need to grow your idea, complete with high speed internet and unlimited coffee.

Up To$1,300
Connect with other businesses through an executive membership, marketing seminars and other events.
*See contest rules for more information on claiming prizes and prize details
Our 2017 Big Idea Awards Finalists
One finalist per category will be crowned a Big Idea winner.
Food + Drink
- Dipsy Desserts
- MaMeal
- Lickety Spin
- BarPass
Giving Back
- GoCivic
- Fictional Bird
- CommunlNcubator
- Elle Grace Consulting, LLC
Tech + Apps
- Happenstance
- ChangEd
- DressCodeable
- Noirefy
Art + Design
- Raise UP
- Lake Shore Dive
- Tradewala
- Dress Downs