IVCA Academy


January 6-8, 2027 | Chicago, Illinois

IVCA Academy is a free, three-day immersive program designed to introduce college students to careers in finance, investing, entrepreneurship, and business leadership.


Many students are interested in pursuing 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.


Throughout the program, participants will engage directly with professionals from leading private equity and venture capital firms, gain insight into a variety of career paths, and build relationships with peers who share an interest in business and investing.


Who Should Apply?

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


Students from all majors are encouraged to apply. The program is specifically intended for students who may have had limited access to industry networks, professional mentorship or formal coursework in finance and accounting.


Ideal participants are:

  • First- and second-year undergraduate students
  • Curious about careers in finance, investing, and business
  • Interested in developing professional skills and industry knowledge
  • Eager to learn from industry leaders and peers
  • Committed to actively participating in all Academy activities


What You'll Learn

  • Fundamentals of accounting and financial statements
  • Business valuation concepts
  • Introduction to financial modeling
  • Introduction to private equity and venture capital investing
  • Career paths in finance and investing
  • Professional networking and communication skills
  • Interview preparation and personal branding


Program Details

Dates: January 6-8, 2027

  • Location: Gleacher Center, Chicago, Illinoia
  • Format: In-person, three-day immersive program
  • Cost: Free for accepted participants
  • Enrollment: Approximately 50 students
  • Industry Engagement: Networking receptions, guest speakers, and visits with leading private equity and venture capital firms
  • Transportation & Housing: Participants are responsible for their own transportation and lodging, if needed
  • Attendance: Participants are expected to attend and actively participate in all program sessions
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch and program materials are provided.


Geographic Eligibility

IVCA Academy is intended for students with ties to Illinois and the Midwest, applicants must either attend college or university in Illinois or maintain a permanent residence in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Ohio or Wisconsin.


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 academic, extracurricular and personal commitments during the program dates.


Because the Academy is designed as a fully immersive experience, applicants must be available for the entire program. Students who cannot attend all required activities are encouraged to apply in a future year.


Now Accepting Applications through November 13, 2026


Application Requirements

Applicants should be prepared to submit:

  • Completed online application
  • Current resume
  • Cumulative GPA (if available)
  • Responses to short answer essay questions
  • Information regarding college enrollment, academic standing and residency
  • Any additional information requested during the application process


Application Timeline

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


Selection Process

Admission to IVCA Academy is competitive. Applications will be evaluated based on:

  • Demonstrated interest in learning about finance, investing, entrepreneurship and business careers
  • Leadership potential, initiative and willingness to learn
  • Academic commitment and engagement
  • Extracurricular, work, volunteer, or entrepreneurial experiences
  • Potential to benefit from increased industry exposure, mentorship 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, investing and business while building connections with professionals across Illinois' private equity and venture capital community.


The IVCA Academy is supported by the IVCA Foundation, a 50l(c)(3) charitable organization.