Built Here. Connected Everywhere: How Startup Ecosystems Thrive at the Intersection of Local Strength and Global Networks

Event Details

Date

Day 1 - March 14, 2026

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Startup infrastructure has long been built around place: innovation districts, coworking hubs, accelerators, and the power of proximity. And while physical ecosystems still create the collisions, trust, and shared momentum that fuel company formation, today’s most successful founders operate within networks that transcend geography.

As teams become more distributed and capital flows globally, the regions that thrive will be those that build both deep local roots and wide-reaching networks. This conversation explores the evolving balance between place-based ecosystems and borderless founder communities — and what it takes to build resilience in a distributed innovation economy.

 

 

Speaker Information
JBJR

Jeffery Beckham Jr.

Jeffery Beckham Jr. is CEO of Chicago Scholars and CO-CEO of REACH Pathways, driving bold strategies to expand access and equity in education. With a background in tech and innovation, he’s passionate about creating pathways that connect young people to opportunity and leadership. Under his leadership, Chicago Scholars has scaled programs that support college success and career readiness for historically underserved students. Jeffery is also a Co-Founder of REACH Pathways, an AI-powered, investor-backed, award winning platform redesigning mentorship and workforce access for youth nationwide.

Jane J

Jane Joseph

Jane Joseph is the Director of Communications and Community Development at Innovation Works, one of the most active early-stage investors in the U.S. Based in Pittsburgh, she leads strategic storytelling and visibility efforts that elevate the region’s innovation economy, amplify founders' voices, and build lasting community partnerships. With a career spanning public affairs, civil engineering, and government innovation, Jane brings a rare blend of communications expertise and ecosystem insight. She was named the 2025 Thought Leader of the Year by Technical.ly Magazine and serves on the SXSW Advisory Board. Her work centers on authentic connection, public narrative, and creating a more inclusive and vibrant tech landscape in Pittsburgh and beyond.