4 Chicago Startups You Should Get To Know
It’s no secret that Chicago is home to some of the greatest startups in the country, and although there’s certainly no lack of cities fighting to be the next Silicon Valley, Chicago is a serious contender. With no shortage of investors, Chicago’s startup community is home to some big names, even for Silicon Valley. Interested in taking your business to the next level? Here are some Chicago-based startups that have proven Chicago is a great place to do so.
No matter which city you live in, Groupon is a name that you most likely know. Since 2007, Groupon has been offering deals, each for one day only, in a variety of cities. What started in Chicago has since expanded all over the U.S. and 45 international markets, including Germany, France, Spain, the UK, Italy, and Belgium. At its peak, Groupon was valued at $25+ billion dollars and was getting $6 billion offers from companies like Google.
Shiftgig is a platform that allows service industry professionals ranging from servers to bartenders to get jobs. Businesses use the site when looking to hire, short or long term. Founded in 2012, Shiftgig has created a name for itself in just a mere three years, and has received a great deal of funding. In a city where the food industry is ever booming, a service like Shiftgig thrives. Most recently, Shiftgig received $10 million of Series A funding in 2014.
Founded in 2004, GrubHub is the nation’s leading online and mobile food ordering company. In 2006, GrubHub’s co-founders won first place in the University of Chicago Edward L. Kaplan New Venture Challenge with the business plan for GrubHub. This award ultimately contributed to the company’s Series A funding, which was secured in 2007. Why do employees love working at GrubHub? The weekly food budget definitely doesn’t hurt!
SpotHero is an on-demand parking service that helps drivers find parking and reserve a spot with garages, lots, or valets for up to 50% off the drive-up rate. Like many other startups, SpotHero stemmed from the problem of parking tickets and parking headaches. SpotHero has received $7 million in funding from firms including Chicago Ventures and Bullpen Capital.
Of all the success stories amongst Chicago startups, which is your favorite? Comment below if your favorite Chitown startup isn’t on this list and tell us why they should be!