On Tuesday, June 16, following six months of intense training and mentorship by some of Chicago’s top Jewish business leaders, 13 JCC PresenTense Chicago entrepreneurs, or Fellows, will present to the public how their innovative ideas will impact the Chicago community and the world at JCC PresenTense Chicago’s Launch Night.

From a life-changing bicycle to youth language development, Fellows have developed a wide range of social ventures to meet both niche and global needs. At Launch Night, which is free (for those who register online in advance) and open to the public, Fellows will have one minute to pitch their ventures to generate interest from potential funders, and will then host a business booth expo to present their mission in more detail. Amid the buzz at 1871 Chicago, audience members will network with fellow start-up enthusiasts and help determine who gets funded by doling out valuable “PresenTense Dollars.” The event includes complimentary drinks, appetizers and opening remarks by 1871 CEO and serial entrepreneur, Howard Tullman.

Launch Night takes place from 6:15-9 p.m. Tuesday, June 16, at 1871 (Merchandise Mart, 12th floor), 222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza. More info about the JCC PresenTense Chicago Fellows and their projects can be found at www.gojcc.org/ptlaunch .

Becky Adelberg, JCC PresenTense Chicago Manager, describes Launch Night as “making it happen…it’s all about launching these ideas and helping them soar.”

Be part of PresenTense’s largest event of the year and engage first-hand with Chicago’s next generation of Jewish change-makers.

The event is free for everyone who registers in advance online at http://bit.ly/ptlaunchtix . $10 at the door. (Space is limited)

Sponsor partners for the JCC Chicago PresenTense Launch Night include: JVS Chicago: Illinois SBDC/Duman Entrepreneurship Center; Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership; Jewish United Fund: Trades, Industries & Professions; and, UpStart Chicago.