Nominations Now Open for the 2026 IVCA Awards
Each year, the Illinois Venture Capital Association honors the individuals, firms, and portfolio companies whose leadership, innovation, and investment success are strengthening Illinois' venture capital and private equity ecosystem. We are pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the 2026 IVCA Awards Program.
We encourage IVCA members, portfolio company executives, industry partners, and community leaders to nominate deserving candidates across six award categories:
Stanley C. Golder Award
Recognizes an individual who has made profound and lasting contributions to Illinois' private equity ecosystem through leadership, investment excellence, and service to the industry.
Richard J. Daley Award
Honors an individual who has provided extraordinary support to the State of Illinois through advocacy or participation in the venture capital and private equity industry.
Stephen S. Beitler Award
Recognizes outstanding contributions to the venture capital and private equity profession and to the IVCA, advancing the association's mission to advocate, educate, and promote the industry in Illinois.
Rising Star Award
Celebrates an emerging Illinois-based private equity or venture capital firm managing its first, second, or third fund and demonstrating exceptional promise, leadership, innovation, and impact.
Venture Capital Portfolio Company of the Year
Recognizes an outstanding venture-backed company that has demonstrated exceptional growth, innovation, and business success.
Private Equity Portfolio Company of the Year
Honors a private equity-backed company that has achieved significant growth, operational excellence, and value creation.
Nomination Deadline: September 30, 2026
Submission Email: Kathy Pyne at
kpyne@illinoisvc.org
Award recipients will be recognized at the 2026 IVCA Awards Dinner, on December 7th celebrating the leaders and organizations shaping the future of venture capital and private equity in Illinois.
View award criteria and download nomination forms on the IVCA website.
We encourage you to submit a nomination and help us recognize the best of Illinois' investment community.