Tech Scenes Unplugged with Joey Mak CEO of Chicago:Blend
"You can’t be what you can’t see." - Joey Mak
In this episode of Tech Scenes, Jeff Martin sits down with Joey Mak, CEO of Chicago:Blend, a nonprofit driving inclusion and equity in venture capital. With over two decades in community and economic development, Joey shares how Chicago:Blend is breaking systemic barriers and opening doors for underrepresented investors and founders across the tech ecosystem.
The conversation explores the realities of DEI in a polarized world, the power of representation, and how initiatives like the Chicago Blend Venture Fellowship are creating lasting pathways into venture capital. Joey also reflects on lessons from leading through complexity — from building coalitions to finding gratitude amid challenge.
Chapters:
00:00 The DEI Landscape and Its Challenges
00:49 Introduction to Chicago Blend
02:15 The Mission and Impact of Chicago Blend
04:30 Personal Journey and Motivation
06:32 Breaking Barriers in Venture Capital
09:44 The Chicago Blend Venture Fellowship
11:18 Recruitment and Selection of Fellows
13:16 Addressing Diversity in Venture Capital
14:57 Collaborative Efforts for Inclusion
16:49 Chicago's Tech Ecosystem and Its Potential
17:50 Data Insights on Diversity in VC
20:49 Capital Flow and Investment Trends
22:51 The Importance of DEI in Business
24:13 Humanity in DEI Practices
29:51 Building a Thriving Ecosystem
33:22 Staying Motivated in Challenging Times
36:01 Lessons Learned and Mistakes Made
38:23 A Fun Desert Island Scenario
Watch now to explore how Joey and Chicago:Blend are helping reshape the future of venture capital — one inclusive connection at a time.
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#DEI #VentureCapital #ChicagoBlend #TechScenes #Inclusion #EconomicDevelopment #Leadership #PeakTeams
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