EO Chicago

Virtual CASH Day- Accelerator
2026-09-23 08:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Virtual
Join EO Global for a Virtual CASH Learning Day focused on the financial fundamentals that drive a stronger, more scalable business.
This virtual session will help you better understand your numbers, identify opportunities to improve cash flow and profitability, and strengthen your financial decision-making.
This program is hosted by EO Global and is not an EO Chicago event. Registration is available directly through the link provided.

https://forms.monday.com/forms/e16e10a14cbd25232589c6d59fff6d34?r=use1

Launchpad Forum - September 2026
2026-09-23 13:00 - 16:00 | EO House Chicago, 1714 North Damen Ave. 3rd. Fl, Chicago, IL, 60647
A Space for New Members Not in a Formal Forum to go 5%
Launchpad Forum is a space designed exclusively for new EO members and Forum moderators actively recruiting new members. This curated experience allows participants to explore the power of Forum, practice going 5%, and build meaningful connections—all within EO’s enhanced Forum Framework tailored to support every stage of the entrepreneurial journey.
RSVP By: 9/16/26
Attendees: New EO Members & Moderators of forums who are recruiting new members.

EO Chicago Monthly Happy Hour
2026-09-23 16:00 - 17:00 | EO House Chicago, 1714 North Damen Ave. 3rd. Fl, Chicago, IL 60647, Chicago, IL, 60647, US
EO Chicago Monthly Happy Hour
Join us for our monthly EO Chicago Happy Hour. Grab a drink, catch up with fellow members, meet someone new, and strengthen the relationships that make our chapter great.
Who should attend? EO, EOA, Prospects, SAP

What’s included?

Beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, and light bites.

Q2 2026/2027 Board Strategy Session
2026-09-24 09:00 - 14:00 | EO House Chicago, 1714 North Damen Ave. 3rd. Fl, Chicago, IL 60647, Chicago, IL, 60647, US
Join us for the EO Chicago Board Strategy Summit, a focused day of planning, collaboration, and leadership alignment as we shape the year ahead.
This year features a new summit format, bringing together the Executive Board and Extended Board for dedicated strategy sessions designed to maximize impact.
Facilitated by Dan Heuretz, this interactive workshop will spark fresh ideas, strengthen collaboration, and help us build a clear plan for an exceptional year.

Schedule:

Executive Board☕ 8:30 AM – Breakfast

🗓️ 9:00 AM–12:00 PM – Strategy Session

All Board Members🥗 12:00–12:30 PM – Lunch

Extended Board📋 12:30–2:00 PM – Committee Strategy Session

🍻 Optional Happy Hour at EO House immediately following the summit.

Attendees: Executive Board (9-2) Extended Board (12-2)

RSVP by: 9-16

Estate Planning for Entrepreneurs
2026-09-24 15:00 - 17:00 | EO House Chicago, 1714 North Damen Ave. 3rd. Fl, Chicago, IL 60647, Chicago, IL, 60647, US
As entrepreneurs, we spend years building, growing, and protecting our businesses. But what happens when the business becomes part of our family’s wealth?
Join EO Chicago for an interactive workshop with Gregory J. Bertsch, CPA, JD, founding partner of Duggan Bertsch and a nationally recognized advisor to entrepreneurs, business owners, and high-net-worth families. He’ll explore the intersection of estate planning, business ownership, taxes, asset protection, wealth transfer, and succession planning in a practical conversation designed to help you protect what you’ve built and plan what comes next.

Attendees: EO, Accelerators, Prospects

Test Drive Forum
2026-09-25 10:00 - 13:00 | EO House Chicago, 1714 North Damen Ave. 3rd. Fl, Chicago, IL 60647, Chicago, IL, 60647, US
Your Path to EO Chicago Membership
This is your formal interview for potential acceptance into EO Chicago.
Meet with current members and other prospects in a forum like setting. We will show you what it looks like to be part of EO, with existing members. This is an opportunity for us both to assess membership, core values and cultural fit.
We’re excited to connect and explore the possibility of welcoming you into the chapter.
We look forward to seeing you there!
RSVP by: 9-18
Attendees: Prospects, EO Members, Membership Committee

EO Chicago Fitness Club – Spartan Midwest Challenge
2026-09-26 06:00 - 11:00 | Badlands Off Road Park, 3968 North Xavier Road, Attica, IN, 47918
Get ready to conquer the Badlands Off-Road Spartans—a 1,200-acre Midwest adventure built to test your endurance in nature at its toughest.
This is a mix of trail running and obstacle challenges designed to test strength, endurance, and grit. You’ll move through sand dunes, rocky terrain, forests, and creek beds while taking on obstacles like carrying, climbing, and crawling. From mud-filled burpees to steep climbs, every section brings a new challenge.
This is a scalable experience—go at your own pace, take breaks when needed, and focus on completing each section step by step. Ultimately, it’s about embracing the elements and pushing yourself in a rugged outdoor environment.
Distance Options:

Sprint (~5K + obstacles)
Super (~10K + obstacles)
Beast (~13 miles + obstacles)

Best Practices:

Use a jog/walk approach between obstacles to recover and maintain energy
Train grip strength ahead of time (you’ll use it more than you think)
Be prepared for obstacle penalties if an attempt isn’t completed (burpees)
Kids race available — a great family-friendly option

This event is about resilience, effort, and pushing yourself in a supportive environment—not perfection or speed.

RSVP: This event is produced by Spartan. You must complete your official registration on their website in order to participate:
https://www.spartan.com/en/races/midwest?index=1
Once you’ve registered through Spartan, please return here to RSVP on Eventbrite so we know you’re attending. We’ll also add you to the WhatsApp group for updates and coordination.
Attendees: EO, EOA, SAP, SLP, Prospects, & Friends

EO’s Global Speakers Academy (GSA) - The Power of Your Story
2026-09-28 09:00 - 2026-10-02 18:00 | TBD
Join EO’s Global Speakers Academy (GSA) for a transformative experience on mastering your presentation skills and crafting your story for impact.
During this immersive, five-day program, EO members receive unparalleled training to develop, refine, and deliver a compelling Signature Talk with personalized coaching from communication experts.
Your story is one of your most powerful leadership tools. When your message is clear, your impact multiplies.
What you’ll gain as a GSA participant:

An immersive experience designed to elevate your storytelling and public speaking skills
Strategic, repeatable frameworks to enhance leadership, communication, persuasion, and stage presence
Five focused days of expert-led workshops and personalized one-on-one coaching
Structured practice with real-time feedback from coaches and peers to build confidence and polish delivery
Lasting, meaningful connections with EO members from around the world on a shared journey of growth

Opportunity to earn GSA certification and unlock new speaking engagements! Subject to evaluation and confirmation by the GSA Certification Review Team.
Attendees: EO Members

2026 US Central Leadership Summit - Elevation
2026-09-28 17:00 - 2026-09-30 19:30 | Scottsdale, Arizona
Rise higher together.
Three days designed to elevate your leadership, expand your perspective, and rise alongside the leaders shaping the future of the US Central Region.
More information, including agenda details and logistics, will be shared soon.
We look forward to bringing this group together for an impactful few days of connection, leadership development, and collaboration.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Allie Frank, afrank@eonetwork.org, and Rahul Wahi, rahul@llt-group.com.
Attendees: President, Elect, and one additional nominated chair by the President

Q2 Forum Training
2026-10-01 08:00 - 17:00 | EO House Chicago, 1714 North Damen Ave. 3rd. Fl, Chicago, IL 60647, Chicago, IL, 60647, US
This will be a full day, in-person forum training for all new Members and SLPs.

Forums are at the heart of EO. These safe, confidential groups foster EO members’ peer-to-peer discussion and reflection in a supportive, noncompetitive and nonjudgmental atmosphere. An SLP Forum works the same way, but allows members’ SLPs to meet regularly with others who may share a similar mindset and who may be going through—or have gone through—similar experiences as the SLP of a leading entrepreneur.

In preparation for Forum Training, we would like to help set your expectations to ensure you get the maximum value.

You might be wondering how this training could possibly consume a full day. We understand that you are busy and getting away for a day is challenging! So please allow us to explain…

The training will provide you with the knowledge and techniques necessary to get the maximum benefit out of your Forum – for both your business and personal growth. You will learn the mechanics of how Forum works, best practices to help you get added value, and you will actually practice the tools the techniques with your new Forum. You will learn and share with your Forum mates, and start discussing what you want out of this Forum experience.

Please view this day as an investment in your own development, where you will gain tools that you can utilize in both your personal and professional life – not just in Forum!

Please plan to work without technology. There will be small breaks for you to check your phone.

Agenda:
8:00am ~ Soft Start and Light Breakfast available
8:30am ~ Hard Start
12:00pm ~ Lunch
5:00pm ~ End

RSVP by: 9/17/26

Attendees: New Members & SLPs (Members & their SLP must train separately.)

Founder Speaker Series: A Double Good Journey with Tim Heitmann
2026-10-01 14:00 - 16:00 | EO House Chicago, 1714 North Damen Ave. 3rd. Fl, Chicago, IL 60647, Chicago, IL, 60647, US
Founder Speaker Series: A Double Good Journey with Tim Heitmann

Every great company has a story. This one started with popcorn—and evolved into one of the country’s most successful fundraising platforms.
Join us as we launch EO Chicago’s new Founder Speaker Series with EO Chicago Past President and Double Good Founder & CEO, Tim Heitmann.
Tim will share the entrepreneurial journey behind building Double Good—from the early days of selling gourmet popcorn to making one bold decision that transformed the company’s future. Through stories, lessons learned, and honest reflections, he’ll explore what it takes to build a business that creates lasting impact while staying true to its purpose.
Whether you’re scaling your company, navigating a pivotal decision, or simply looking for inspiration from someone who’s been there, this conversation will leave you with practical insights and a fresh perspective on growth.
Come hear the story behind one of Chicago’s most remarkable entrepreneurial journeys—and help us kick off a new series celebrating founders who are building extraordinary companies.

Attendees: EO, Accelerators, SAP, Prospects
RSVP by: September 24

Q2 New Member Dinner
2026-10-06 18:00 - 21:00 | TBD, 444 West Lake Street #900, Chicago, IL 60606, Chicago, IL, 60606, US
🍽️ Join us for an evening of connection, conversation, and community at our Q2 New Member Dinner.
This special gathering brings together EO Chicago’s newest members, EOA graduates, and SLP’s for a relaxed dinner designed to help you build relationships and deepen your connection to the chapter. Whether you’re new to EO or transitioning into your next stage of involvement, this is an opportunity to meet fellow entrepreneurs, share experiences, and expand your network in an intimate setting.
With a small group and private dining experience, you’ll have the chance to engage in meaningful conversations and start building the relationships that make EO so valuable.
We look forward to welcoming you to the community.

Attendees: Executive Board, New Members, and Significant Life Partners (SLP’s)

The Power of Your Story: Family Storytime with Sally Lou Loveman
2026-10-10 10:00 - 12:00 | EO House Chicago, 1714 North Damen Ave. 3rd. Fl, Chicago, IL 60647, Chicago, IL, 60647, US
Join EO families at EO House for a special storytime experience with Sally Lou Loveman, EO Talks coach, storyteller, and author of Livie Lou Lovely Loves to Speak. Sally Lou has helped countless entrepreneurs discover and share their stories, and now she’s bringing that message to the next generation.
Families will enjoy an interactive reading of her charming children’s book, which celebrates courage, confidence, and finding your voice. Following the reading, children will have the opportunity to ask questions, participate in a brief discussion, and meet Sally Lou during a book signing. Light refreshments will be provided.
Books will be available for purchase and personalization.

Attendees: EO, Accelerators, SLP, + Children
*Recommended for families with children ages 3–10, though all ages are welcome.

EO Chicago Movement & Wellness Festival w/Chris Hauth
2026-10-15 07:00 - 14:00 | Swallow Cliff Stairs, Sag Valley Trail, Palos Park, IL 60464, Palos Park, IL, 60464, US
Join EO Chicago and two-time Olympian, Ironman Champion, and endurance coach Chris Hauth for a one-day outdoor movement and wellness festival at Swallow Cliffs in Palos Park.
We’ll kick off the morning at 7:00 AM with coffee, music, and community before Chris leads us through breathwork and into the centerpiece of the day: The Stair Challenge.
But this isn’t about who gets to the top first.
As a group, we’ll work together toward a collective target, taking on the iconic Swallow Cliffs stairs at our own pace. Push yourself. Take a break. Do another round. Cheer someone on. Every ability is welcome, and every step counts toward the goal.
Then, we recover.
The Sauna Village and cold plunges will be waiting ft music, a food truck, and plenty of time to hang out, refuel, and enjoy the day together.
Come for the challenge. Stay for the festival.

THE DAY

7:00 AM | Arrive, Coffee + Community
Morning | Breathwork with Chris Hauth
Next Up | The Stair Challenge
Recover | Sauna Village + Cold Plunge
Stay & Hang | Food Truck, Music + Community

Go hard or go at your own pace. Stay for the whole day or come and go as needed. This is about getting outside, moving together, and experiencing what we’re capable of as a community.
Rain or shine. Come ready to move, recover, connect, and have some fun.

Attendees: EO Members, SAP, SLP, Prospects
GOAL: 100 PEOPLE!!

EO Chicago Fitness Club – HYROX Simulation
2026-10-17 11:30 - 14:30 | WATTAGE, 1044 West Kinzie Street, Chicago, IL 60642, Chicago, IL, 60642, US
This is a full-body endurance workout that blends running with functional fitness stations for a fast-paced, high-energy challenge. You’ll move through 1K runs followed by workouts like sled pushes, burpees, lunges, and more—repeated for 8 rounds.
It’s simple in structure, but sneaky in difficulty. The goal is steady movement, smart pacing, and finding your rhythm as fatigue builds.
Whether you’re going solo or teaming up, this workout is designed to be scalable, supportive, and surprisingly fun—just don’t be surprised if your legs and lungs have a conversation halfway through.
Workout Format:
8 rounds of:

1K run
Functional workout station (sled push, burpees, lunges, and more)

Best Practices:

Don’t go out too fast—effort compounds quickly
Keep your run pace controlled, not aggressive
Break stations into small, manageable sets early
Expect grip and leg fatigue first—pace your effort accordingly
Can be done in teams (a great, accessible option for all levels)

To help cover the gym rental, we kindly ask for a $30 contribution via Zelle to Joe at (630)776-7697.

RSVP By: 10/17/26
Attendees: EO, EOA, SAP, SLP, Prospects, & Friends!

Annual Board Retreat
2026-10-19 14:00 - 2026-10-21 10:00 | Union Pier, 15800 Lakeshore Rd, Union Pier, MI 49129, Union Pier, MI, 49129, US
Join the EO Chicago Board for a few days away in to connect, recharge, and have some fun together.
We’ll trade the boardroom for the lake house and spend our time enjoying the outdoors, great food, and even better company.
A chance to strengthen relationships, make some memories, and enjoy being together outside of our usual board meetings.

October 19–21, 2026
Union Pier, Michigan

Attendees: 2026/2027 Board Members

Fall Sanctuary Dinner: The Dreaming Season
2026-10-24 18:00 - 21:30 | North Center, TBD, Chicago, IL 60613, Chicago, IL, 60613, US
Fall is when the field goes quiet. The harvest is in, the work above ground is done, and next year’s growth gets decided. Come spend an evening with EO friends, new and old, who know both the cost and thrill of building something new. We’ll share great food, real conversation, and reflections on what each of us is planting next. Under a nearly full moon, we’ll leave more nourished- inside and out.
Please note: Registering enters you into a lottery. It does not reserve your seat. Only 10 EO members will be selected and notified after registration closes.
Eligibility: EO Members Only
Capacity: 10 EO Members (Selected by Lottery)
Lottery Entry Deadline: September 30th
Location: Shared with selected attendees only

EO XCentric Cleveland
2026-10-25 14:00 - 2026-10-27 22:00 | Hilton Cleveland Downtown, 100 Lakeside Ave E, Cleveland, OH, 44114
EO XCentric Cleveland is built for entrepreneurs who crave what’s next. It’s a few days to step out of the noise, challenge your thinking, and reconnect with the energy that started it all.
You’ll trade ideas, stories, and lessons with people who understand the grind and the thrill of building something real. Every moment is designed to move you forward and remind you what it means to create, lead, and evolve.
Cleveland is a city that understands reinvention, where creativity and resilience are part of the culture. It’s the ideal place for intentional growth, change, and rejuvenation. Join us, and be part of the evolution.

Launchpad Forum - October 2026
2026-10-29 14:00 - 17:00 | EO House Chicago, 1714 North Damen Ave. 3rd. Fl, Chicago, IL 60647, Chicago, IL, 60647, US
A Space for New Members Not in a Formal Forum to go 5%.
Launchpad Forum is a space designed exclusively for new EO members and Forum moderators actively recruiting new members. This curated experience allows participants to explore the power of Forum, practice going 5%, and build meaningful connections—all within EO’s enhanced Forum Framework tailored to support every stage of the entrepreneurial journey.

Attendees: New EO Members & Moderators of forums who are recruiting new members.

EO Chicago Monthly Happy Hour
2026-10-29 17:00 - 18:00 | EO House Chicago, 1714 North Damen Ave. 3rd. Fl, Chicago, IL 60647, Chicago, IL, 60647, US
Join us for our monthly EO Chicago Happy Hour. Grab a drink, catch up with fellow members, meet someone new, and strengthen the relationships that make our chapter great.

Who should attend?
EO, EOA, Prospects, SAP

What’s included?
Beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, and light bites.

A+ Hiring: The Secrets to Getting the Right People in the Right Seats
2026-11-11 14:00 - 16:00 | EO House Chicago, 1714 North Damen Ave. 3rd. Fl, Chicago, IL 60647, Chicago, IL, 60647, US
Come see the talk that was recently acclaimed:
“the most amazing thing I’ve heard in 18 months of being in EO, this should be a required watch for everyone!”
Every entrepreneur knows the pain of hiring the wrong person. It costs time, money, and damages company culture.
But their hiring process still relies on resumes, interviews, gut instinct, or AI to find the right fit.
In this event, you’ll learn a proven, unconventional hiring system to consistently identify A+ candidates while wasting less time interviewing.
Walk out with a step by step process to:
Define roles more clearly

Screen out weak applicants earlier

Test for culture fit

Uncover the real person behind the polished interview answers

Avoid settling for the best candidate in a mediocre pool

Get references talking beyond the usual HR “this person worked here during these dates” chatter.

Attendees: EO, Accelerators, Prospects

KaraEOke and Ramen Night
2026-11-12 18:00 - 21:00 | RAMEN-SAN Lincoln Park, 1962 North Halsted Street, Chicago, IL 60614, Chicago, IL, 60614, US
Join fellow EO Chicago members for a night of ramen, karaoke, and plenty of laughs at Ramen-San!
We’ll kick things off over dinner with bowls of ramen and Ramen-San favorites. Then it’s time to grab the mic, cheer on your fellow members, or just sit back and enjoy the show.
Attendees: EO Members, SAP

Test Drive Forum
2026-11-16 13:00 - 16:00 | EO House Chicago, 1714 North Damen Ave. 3rd. Fl, Chicago, IL 60647, Chicago, IL, 60647, US
Your Path to EO Chicago Membership
This is your formal interview for potential acceptance into EO Chicago.
Meet with current members and other prospects in a forum like setting. We will show you what it looks like to be part of EO, with existing members. This is an opportunity for us both to assess membership, core values and cultural fit.
We’re excited to connect and explore the possibility of welcoming you into the chapter.
We look forward to seeing you there!

RSVP by: 11-09
Attendees: Prospects, EO Members, Membership Committee

STRATEGY Day
2026-11-17 08:30 - 17:00 | EO House Chicago, 1714 North Damen Ave. 3rd. Fl, Chicago, IL 60647, Chicago, IL, 60647, US
Do you have a strategy built to SCALE UP?
Strategy is more than a plan… it’s knowing where you’re going, what sets you apart, and how to make the right decisions to get there.
At STRATEGY Day, you’ll step out of the day-to-day and take a closer look at the big picture of your business. Through practical tools, discussion, and peer learning, you’ll work to sharpen your competitive advantage, clarify your direction, and build a strategy your entire team can understand and execute.
You’ll leave with greater clarity around where you’re going, why you’ll win, and what needs to happen next.

ATTENDEES: EO, Accelerators, & SAP

Q3 2026/2027 Board Strategy Session
2026-12-01 09:00 - 14:00 | EO House Chicago, 1714 North Damen Avenue 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL, 60647
Save the date!
Attendees: EO Board & Extended Board

Test Drive Forum
2026-12-08 13:00 - 16:00 | EO House Chicago, 1714 North Damen Ave. 3rd. Fl, Chicago, IL 60647, Chicago, IL, 60647, US
Your Path to EO Chicago Membership

This is your formal interview for potential acceptance into EO Chicago.
Meet with current members and other prospects in a forum like setting. We will show you what it looks like to be part of EO, with existing members. This is an opportunity for us both to assess membership, core values and cultural fit.
We’re excited to connect and explore the possibility of welcoming you into the chapter.
We look forward to seeing you there!

RSVP by: 12-01
Attendees: Prospects, EO Members, Membership Committee

EO Chicago's 2026 Holiday Party - Fire & Ice
2026-12-12 18:00 - 23:00 | Venue West, 221 North Paulina Street, Chicago, IL 60612, Chicago, IL, 60612, US
There are seasons when you’re on fire: taking risks, making moves, and feeling that spark that made you an entrepreneur in the first place.
And there are seasons when you’re keeping your cool: trusting your instincts, riding the waves, and letting what you’ve built work for you.
This December, let’s bring those two elements together for FIRE & ICE: EO Chicago’s 2026 Holiday Party.
A night to celebrate, dress up, and connect with the people who understand just how much can happen between fiery ambition and cool focus.
Come ready for cocktails, dinner, dancing, and an incredible night together.

WHAT TO WEAR? | CHOOSE YOUR SIDE

🔥 FIRE: Red • Fuchsia • Burgundy • Gold • Bold • Glowing
❄️ ICE: White • Silver • Ice Blue • Navy • Sleek • Shimmering
To the fire that fuels us, the ice that grounds us, and the people beside us through both.

Attendees: EO Members, Accelerators, SLPs & SAPs

Please RSVP by November 18. Confirmed dinner selections will be sent to registered guests as we get closer to the event.

2027 EO New Zealand Exploration
2027-01-10 12:00 - 2027-01-16 10:00
Set your sights on the raw, untamed beauty of New Zealand’s South Island — a place where nature feels larger, wilder, and closer than anywhere else on earth. From the alpine peaks and glacial lakes of Queenstown – a landscape that has brought legendary stories like The Lord of the Rings to life — to the rolling farmlands and open countryside beyond, this is a place where myth and majesty are not imagined but felt.
This six-night journey is designed for those who seek both exhilaration and meaning — where moments of adrenaline meet moments of connection, and where every experience reveals something deeper about the land and the people who call it home. Here, the spirit of exploration lives not only in the terrain, but in the stories, traditions, and entrepreneurial mindset shaped by life at the edge of the world.
Each day unfolds through carefully curated experiences that reflect the essence of New Zealand. You may find yourself racing through narrow canyons by jet boat, navigating wild rivers in a white-water raft, or traversing remote countryside by 4WD — landscapes once shaped by gold rush pioneers and still carrying the echoes of their ambition and resilience. In quieter moments, you will slow down to take in the region’s natural beauty: cycling through open valleys, sharing meals paired with world-class wines, and gathering in settings where conversation flows as easily as the scenery.
Beyond the adventure lies a deeper connection to place. Engage with local entrepreneurs and community members whose lives are intertwined with the land — individuals who have built businesses rooted in creativity, independence, and respect for nature. Through cultural encounters and storytelling, including moments inspired by Māori traditions, you will gain insight into the heritage and values that continue to shape New Zealand’s identity today.
Evenings bring a different rhythm — one of reflection and connection. Whether in the heart of Queenstown or surrounded by the stillness of the countryside, these shared moments create space for meaningful conversations, new perspectives, and lasting relationships.
As with every EO Exploration, this journey is more than a destination. It is an opportunity to step away from the familiar, to challenge yourself in new ways, and to return with renewed clarity, inspiration, and connection. In New Zealand, the experience is as expansive as the landscape itself — bold, grounding, and unforgettable.
Registration opens at 11:00 AM on 4 June 2026.
Attendees: EO Members, SLPs & Guests

Moderator Summit - Canada, US Central and West - Las Vegas
2027-01-13 - 2027-01-15
Save the date!
Attendees: Moderators

Q3 Forum Training
2027-01-19 08:00 - 17:00 | EO House Chicago, 1714 North Damen Avenue 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL, 60647
Save the date!
