Who we are

We help UChicago students build startups. ILC-member and alumni founded startups are collectively worth over $1.35B.

We are one of the oldest RSOs at UChicago and have a consistent track record of producing high-value companies. Through our rich alumni network, connection to founders, and knowledge of on-campus resources, we will put you in the best place to succeed.

We do not expect any business knowledge coming into ILC and work with members who are passionate about solving problems, not necessarily entrepreneurship. Through our curriculum, our members develop the skills to identify high-leverage problems, create products, sell them, and then raise funding.

Membership in ILC

Fall Quarter

We teach you the fundamentals of how to start your own business - from identifying the right problem to solve, developing a product, and selling it.

We believe every person should have the opportunity to join ILC regardless of their background in entrepreneurship. At the end of the fall quarter, select members will continue in ILC upon evaluation.

Winter Quarter

We expose you to UChicago alumni and current students with success in entrepreneurship. Last year, our speakers collectively raised $4M to scale their ventures.

We also provide technical education for how to develop your ideas into products. During our 2025-26 year, we will place special focus on using AI and building products that scale with AI.

Spring Quarter

Our members begin the 100-days startup challenge where they will compete to raise grants from VCs. Each team is assigned a mentor to help them develop their idea and pitch.

After the conclusion of your year in ILC, we maintain an active alumni incubator where ILC alums can share ideas, find cofounders, and build their startups.

Alumni

ILC alumni have followed many career paths. While all of our members have an interest in building their own startups, many pursue careers in consulting, banking, tech, and more.

Whatever your career aspirations, you will be able to connect with ILC alumni for mentorship and guidance. We have included a few featured startups on the right as well as common companies that ILC alumni join.