2026 Cultural Voices: Seeds of Impact
Overview
Entrepreneurship has long been a catalyst for opportunity within Asian American communities—driving economic mobility, generational wealth, and cultural leadership. Cultural Voices 2026: Seeds of Impact brings together Asian American entrepreneurs, business leaders, funders, and community partners to explore how innovation, resilience, and identity shape lasting impact across Chicago.
Hosted by the Chinese American Service League (CASL) — the largest and most comprehensive Asian American social service organization in the Midwest — Cultural Voices honors AANHPI Heritage Month by honoring the legacy of those who came before us, celebrating the leaders and builders among us today, and investing in the next generation who will carry this work forward.
Doors open at 11:00 a.m. Lunch will be provided.
From Conversation to Connection: Network with our Panelists
Following the panel discussion, attendees will have dedicated time for small-group networking with our panelists—creating space for deeper dialogue, practical insight sharing, and meaningful relationship-building beyond the stage. This extended format is designed to encourage continued connection and collaboration among founders, CEOs, investors, and community partners.
Why Cultural Voices Matters
Seeds of Impact is built around three interconnected ideas:
- Honoring Our Legacy — Asian American entrepreneurs and community builders have shaped Chicago for generations. Their resilience, sacrifice, and vision created the foundation we stand on today.
- Celebrating Our Present — Today’s leaders are expanding what’s possible — driving innovation, building businesses, and strengthening neighborhoods across the city.
- Building Our Future — The next generation of Asian American leaders is already here. Seeds of Impact creates space to invest in them — through mentorship, resources, and community.
Together, these threads form the story of a community that doesn’t just adapt — it builds. Join us on May 28 at mHUB and be part of what comes next.
Featured Cultural Voices
Panelists:
- Sid Bala, Founder & CEO, KOIOS | Board Member and Tech Executive
- Alison Chung, Founder and President, TeamWerks
- Teresa Ging, CEO and Founder, Sugar Bliss
- Eddie Lou, Co-founder, CodaPet | Angel Investor
- Alex Schneider, Managing Partner, Clover Capital Partners | Entrepreneurship Faculty, Northwestern University
Moderator:
Abin Kuriakose, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer, World Business Chicago
Who’s in the Room
Cultural Voices 2026 brings together a thoughtful, engaged audience that includes:
- Asian American founders and business owners
- Corporate executives and institutional partners
- Philanthropic, civic, and nonprofit leaders
- Emerging entrepreneurs and next-generation talent
Support Cultural Voices
Participate as a Sponsor
Sponsors are recognized as visible champions of inclusive economic growth and community leadership. Sponsorship includes brand visibility, meaningful engagement with leaders and decision-makers, and alignment with CASL’s long-standing mission and impact. Most importantly, partners are recognized not just for their support—but for their leadership.
Interested in learning more? Contact laurie.respass@casl.org.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsorship levels range from $1,250 to $25,000 with customized visibility, engagement, and recognition benefits. Founder-level sponsors receive premier recognition and are positioned as leading champions of Asian American entrepreneurship in Chicago.