About P33

The P33 staff pose together, smiling, at a TechChicago week event.

P33 is on a mission to transform Chicago into a tier one technology and innovation hub driving inclusive economic growth.

P33 was founded in 2019 by civic and business leaders focused on cultivating world-class startups, emerging industries, and tech opportunities for all. To facilitate significant economic growth, P33 acts as a catalyst between Chicago stakeholders and the global tech community.

P33 Founders

Penny Pritzker

Former Secretary of Commerce; Founder & Chairman of PSP Partners

Chris Gladwin

CEO & Co-founder of Ocient and Cleversafe

Kelly Welsh

President of the Civic Committee of The Commercial Club of Chicago

How to lead an innovation revolution:

Build connections

for collaboration

Catalyze change

and experimentation

Transform systems

at scale

Build connections

for collaboration

Catalyze change

and experimentation

Transform systems

at scale

A name inspired by our history and our destiny.

P stands for our People, our Purpose, our Plan, and our Progress.

33 stands for 1933, the year of the Chicago World’s Fair, a moment that established our city on the world stage of technology. And for 2033, the 200th anniversary of Chicago’s founding — and when we aim to realize our vision for Chicago as a global technology leader.

Meet our Staff & Board Committees & Volunteers