IVCA Academy


January 6-8, 2027 | Chicago, Illinois


IVCA Academy is a free, three-day immersive program designed to introduce college students to the world of finance, investing, and business careers.


Many students are interested in careers in finance but have limited access to industry networks, professional guidance, or exposure to career paths such as private equity and venture capital. IVCA Academy helps bridge that gap by providing foundational knowledge, practical skill development, and direct access to industry professionals.


Led by industry expert Chris McGowan, the program combines interactive instruction, case studies, professional development workshops, networking opportunities, and hands-on exercises that introduce core concepts in accounting, finance, valuation, and financial modeling.


Participants will also have the opportunity to engage directly with professionals through networking receptions, and visits with leading private equity and venture capital firms.



Who Should Apply?


IVCA Academy is intended for highly motivated students who are interested in exploring careers in finance, investing, entrepreneurship, consulting, or business leadership.


Students from all majors are welcome to apply. The program is specifically designed for students who have not yet had significant exposure to finance careers, industry networks, or formal finance and accounting training.


Ideal candidates are:

  • First- and second-year undergraduate students
  • Curious about careers in finance, investing, and business
  • Interested in developing professional skills and industry knowledge
  • Excited to learn from peers and industry leaders
  • Willing to fully engage in all program activities



Program Details

  • Dates: January 6-8, 2027
  • Location: Gleacher Center, Chicago
  • Format: In-person
  • Cost: Free for accepted participants
  • Enrollment: Approximately 50 students
  • Industry Engagement: Networking opportunities, guest speakers, and potential office visits with participating firms
  • Transportation & Housing: Participants are responsible for their own transportation and lodging, if needed



Geographic Eligibility

To support the development of future investment professionals in Illinois and the Midwest, applicants must meet IVCA's geographic eligibility requirements. Preference will be given to students who attend college in Illinois or maintain a permanent residence within Illinois or the greater Midwest region.


Commitment Requirement

Students selected for IVCA Academy must commit to full participation in all program activities.

Attendance is required for all program sessions on January 6-8, 2027, including any scheduled evening programming, networking events, or firm visits. Participants should plan to prioritize IVCA Academy over other commitments during the program dates.

Students who cannot commit to the full program should not apply.


Application Requirements

Applicants should be prepared to submit:

  • Online application
  • Current resume
  • GPA (if available)
  • Short essay responses
  • Information regarding college enrollment and residency


Application Timeline

  • Applications Open: October 2026
  • Application Deadline: November 13, 2026
  • Selection Notifications: Early December 2026
  • Program Dates: January 6-8, 2027



Selection Process

Admission is competitive and reviewers will consider:

  • Interest in learning about finance, investing, and business careers
  • Leadership potential and initiative
  • Academic commitment
  • Extracurricular, work, volunteer, or entrepreneurial experiences
  • Potential to benefit from increased industry exposure and professional development opportunities



Building the IVCA Talent Pipeline

IVCA Academy serves as an entry point into the IVCA talent development ecosystem, helping students gain early exposure to careers in finance and investing while building connections with professionals across Illinois' private equity and venture capital community.