The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the launch of the Chicago Business Insights Forum presented by BMO, a dynamic program built to equip business leaders with the intelligence they need to navigate today’s rapidly evolving economy.
The Chicago Business Insights Forum convenes leading economists, policymakers, and industry innovators to provide clarity on the trends and forces shaping Chicago’s business landscape and the global dynamics influencing it. From trade policy and workforce strategy to market shifts and monetary policy, each session delivers timely, actionable insights that help leaders anticipate challenges, seize opportunities, and make informed decisions. Participants will gain practical takeaways and strengthen their networks through meaningful peer connections that support smarter, faster execution.
This program is designed for executives and senior professionals whose roles depend on strategic foresight, financial discipline, and data-driven planning. Ideal attendees include leaders in finance, strategy, operations, government affairs, human resources and talent, economic development, corporate leadership, and business development. The Forum will also appeal to cross-functional teams that must align business plans to economic realities and policy changes.
Jack Lavin, President and CEO of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, underscored the importance of actionable intelligence at this moment:
“In an economy defined by rapid change and uncertainty, business leaders need reliable and forward-looking insights to make confident decisions and to grow their companies. The Chicago Business Insights Forum will connect our members to the expertise, data, and perspectives that strengthen business strategies and support long-term growth. When companies grow, Chicago and the entire region grow with them. With partners who share our commitment to economic vitality, we are investing in a stronger and more resilient business community for our city and region.”
Steve Fansler, Managing Director and Regional Head of Commercial Banking at BMO, added:
“This new forum creates a powerful space for collaboration between business leaders, economists, and policymakers. As the pace of change accelerates, the ability to translate insights into action has never mattered more. We’re proud to support a platform that fosters innovation, strategic clarity, and stronger connections across Chicago’s business landscape.”
With BMO’s support and the Chamber’s commitment to empowering leaders, the Chicago Business Insights Forum will serve as a premier platform for economic understanding, idea exchange, and strategic clarity. As part of this evolution, the program represents a relaunch of the Chamber’s Mid-Market Council, refreshed with expanded content and broader relevance for decision-makers across sectors.
The Forum will open with “Rewiring the Economy: What the FGS Global Radar Means for Chicago Leaders,” featuring the Chicago debut of FGS Global Radar 2026, the first global edition to include U.S. insights. A panel of FGS Global leaders will explore how shifting political, economic, technological, and social dynamics intersect with the realities facing Chicago and the Midwest, from geopolitics and workforce trends to capital flows and regulatory change. Moderated by BMO, the conversation will help leaders translate global signals into local strategy, offering actionable intelligence and peer connections to navigate 2026 with confidence. Please save the date: March 17 from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the BMO Conference Center.
The Chicagoland Chamber looks forward to welcoming you to the inaugural session and to a new era of insight-driven leadership in Chicago.