Meet the 2026 IVCA Award Honorees

Each year, the IVCA Awards Dinner recognizes the leaders, firms, and portfolio companies that exemplify excellence across Illinois' private equity and venture capital ecosystem. These honorees represent the innovation, investment, and leadership driving growth throughout our region and beyond.

Join us on December 7 at the Four Seasons Chicago as we celebrate the 2026 IVCA Award Honorees:

Stanley C. Golder Award

  Lee Shapiro, 7wire Ventures

Stephen S. Beitler Award

  Phil Alphonse, The Vistria Group

Rising Star Award

  Next Gen Growth Partners

Portfolio Company of the Year - Venture Capital

  SpotHero

Portfolio Company of the Year - Private Equity

  Stampede Culinary Partners

The Awards Dinner brings together the investors, founders, executives, advisors, and industry leaders shaping the future of private capital in Illinois. Attendees will have the opportunity to celebrate this year's remarkable honorees while connecting with peers from across the private equity and venture capital community.

View the full awards program and event details:
2026 IVCA Awards Dinner