Nine Local Entrepreneurs Form Legal Businesses at Incorporation/Organization Day

Earlier this month the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation hosted its second annual Incorporation/Organization Day, a unique event that connects West and South Side entrepreneurs with attorneys from local law firms to explore the process of establishing a legal business entity.

Thirty-four entrepreneurs and startups attended the event, representing business ventures from a variety of industries including educational services, tech, digital marketing, beauty, and more. Of the attendees, 16 are clients of the Polsky Exchange’s Small Business Development Center and six took part in the recent Idea Lab program.

“The Polsky Exchange is committed to empowering entrepreneurs, not just with knowledge and mentorship, but also with actionable steps that help grow a simple idea into a functional business,” said Abigail Ingram, executive director, Polsky Exchange. “Incorporation/Organization Day focuses on making one of the most difficult parts of that journey simpler by demystifying the process of incorporation and bringing legal expertise to entrepreneurs who otherwise might not have ease of access.”

Nine entrepreneurs and startups filed for organization or incorporation during the event, including RideSide Media, which was also part of the Idea Lab.

“The event was great; we were able to get registered and the agent followed up with us promptly to make sure everything was done satisfactory,” said Tristan Sumpter, of RideSide Media. “We really appreciated the help from the Polsky Center and the law firms.”

“We found it very valuable and thought the event was well put together,” said Coty Williams of RideSide Media. “It was a pleasure working with everyone involved. The lawyer we worked with was knowledgeable and helped us make informed decisions on certain aspects of our incorporation that we would’ve missed had he not guided us. Overall, an extremely good experience.”

Eight attorneys from five law firms provided pro bono consultation at the event, including Vanessa Madrigal, associate from Dentons law firm, which also participated last year.

“The Dentons team enjoyed collaborating once again with the Polsky Center, reaffirming our commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and community growth,” said Madrigal. “The event provided a fantastic platform for entrepreneurs to engage with legal professionals, law students, and other community entrepreneurs. It was inspiring to witness the energy and innovation within the community, and we are proud to have played a role in streamlining the company formation process, empowering participants to address critical questions and challenges in real time. We are honored to have been a part of this impactful initiative and look forward to continuing our partnership with the Polsky Center.”

All participating firms included:

• Dentons US LLP
• Thompson Hine
• Founders Law
• Dinsmore & Shohl
• Dressler & Peters