Section
Business Leaders
The entrepreneurs and executives driving Illinois forward, from the Loop to Naperville.

Schaumburg Startup Founder Camille Forsythe Sells AI Company for $70 Million
Camille Forsythe's Schaumburg-based AI startup, ClarityGrid, was acquired by a national data analytics firm for $70 million after five years of growth.

Chicago Hospitality Founder Bianca Monroe Adds Fourth River North Hotel
Bianca Monroe's Chicago hospitality group acquired its fourth River North hotel, continuing a decade-long consolidation of the neighborhood's boutique lodging market.

Chicago Fintech Founder Darnell Ashworth Closes $16 Million Series A
Darnell Ashworth's Chicago fintech startup, LedgerBridge, raised a $16 million Series A to expand banking software for small credit unions.

Naperville Restaurateur Devon Hargrove Expands Dining Group to Chicago
Devon Hargrove's Naperville-based restaurant group is opening its first downtown Chicago location after a decade building a farm-to-table dining brand.

Chicago Developer Isaiah Cranston Breaks Ground on 380-Unit Affordable Housing Project
Developer Isaiah Cranston began construction on a 380-unit mixed-income housing development on Chicago's West Side, his largest project to date.

Rockford Manufacturer Gerald Whitfield Reshores Production From Overseas Suppliers
Gerald Whitfield's Rockford-based precision components manufacturer is bringing production back from overseas suppliers, adding 65 local jobs.