Immersive Technology and Creative Tech

07/22/2026 – About the Topic

The Chicago Media & Entertainment Tech Summit brings together founders, investors, creative industry executives, and civic leaders at the intersection of music, film, fashion, gaming, sports, and immersive tech – with Chicago’s world-class manufacturing base and rising founder community as its backdrop. The program features curated panels and fireside chats spanning topics from immersive technologies like virtual and augmented reality and virtual production to the future of fan engagement, dual-use technology, and inclusive access to capital. A centerpiece pitch competition will spotlight five finalists with direct pathways to investment, prizes, and global exposure – with a particular commitment to founders from low-to-moderate income neighborhoods and historically underserved communities. Whether you are a first-time founder, a corporate innovation leader, or simply someone who believes Chicago’s creative economy is ready for its moment, this is a gathering worth being part of.

Panel Members

Details Coming Soon…

What’s the Format

Times in Central Daylight Time (CDT)
5:30-8:30pm for the In-Person Program
6:00-8:00pm in Virbela for the Virtual Program

5:30-6:15pm – Networking & Technology Demonstrations
6:15-6:30pm – Introductions & Welcome
6:30-7:10pm – Panelist Presentations
7:10-7:45pm – Panel Discussion with Q&A
7:45-8:30pm – Networking & Technology Demonstrations

We will start with informal networking, then host a panel discussion to answer audience questions, and we end with more networking. We keep it simple and informal – this meetup is about you, our members, and not just a soap box for the host, presenters, or our sponsors. Come and get your questions answered, take your next step in Immersive Technology.

Attending The Next Evolution

Attending in-Person

2112 | 4245 N Knox Ave

conveniently located off Interstate 90/94, one (1) block from the CTA Montrose Blue Line stop as well as the Metra Mayfair stop.

Watching the Live Stream

Primary Live Stream | www.youtube.com/@AWEXR/streams

People can join by watching the scheduled live stream where we will field questions from!

Attending Virtually

FRAME
Framevr.io/the-next-evolution-awe-nite-chicago

We encourage folks to join us in the virtual environment by simply clicking the link above.

The Frame virtual environment resembles a physical space, so you will be able to talk with other attendees prior to the start of the presentations. We suggest that you arrive no later than 6:00pm and we will get started promptly at 6:15. Please try to get familiar with the technology prior to the meetup, as we will be unable to provide support during the event. Share your camera or simply be a unique avatar or a robot!

Find out more about FRAME here!