being the change
At VRAR Chicago, we don’t just advise others, we build the future ourselves. Through self-initiated programs and collaborative partnerships, we’ve created platforms that expand access to immersive technology, accelerate workforce development, and strengthen Chicago’s position as a national XR hub.
Below are some of the flagship initiatives we lead.
being the change
The Next Evolution – AWE Nite Chicago
Since 2017, VRAR Chicago has produced The Next Evolution, a free monthly educational series that connects industry leaders, developers, researchers, and entrepreneurs around real-world XR use cases and future-forward conversations.
Measurable Impact
- 100+ events produced at leading Chicago tech hubs (2112, 1871, Illinois Tech)
- Over 400 expert speakers from Meta, Unity, Microsoft, IBM, Accenture, and more
- Originally launched by VRAR Chicago, in 2022 The Next Evolution transitioned to an independent fiscally sponsored 501(c)(3) nonprofit program.
This free event series continues to grow, drawing technologists and executives alike to explore what’s next in immersive technology.
Illinois XR Center of Excellence (ILXRCOE)
VRAR Chicago is a founding partner of the Illinois XR Center of Excellence, a statewide initiative (currently forming) with Illinois Institute of Technology and 2112 Chicago to provide access, expertise, and infrastructure for immersive technology adoption.
Providing Value
- Permanent fixed location at Illinois Institute of Technology
- Satellite programs and mobile delivery throughout the region
- Supports businesses, workforce development, government, and education
- Designed to lower the cost and complexity of XR adoption
By pooling resources and aligning leadership, the ILXRCOE is accelerating XR integration across sectors statewide.
VR Career Awareness Days
Developed by VRAR Chicago in response to Illinois' PaCE legislation, VR Career Awareness Days offer schools serving grades 6-12 an easy way to expose students to immersive career exploration without the barriers of traditional field trips or new curriculum.
Tomorrow’s Workforce
- Delivered programming supporting 300+ students in a single school day
- 30+ career path simulations available for students to self-select in VR
- Designed to operate without burdening teachers or school IT
- Attracted interest from education leaders and agencies across multiple states
A scalable, engaging solution to help students explore new futures beyond their geographic limitations and on their own terms.
Want to Collaborate?
These programs were built through partnerships - with educators, technologists, political leaders, and industry partners. If you're interested in sponsoring, supporting, or replicating any of our initiatives, we’d love to talk.
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