Our Model

The Smart Chicago model is based on a lean organization focused on have a broad regional impact, centered among philanthropy and government.

There's been interest in helping creating similar organizations throughout the United States. Following are two detailed items— a presentation outlining our model and a speech providing some color and examples— to help guide your thinking.

If you have questions and want to talk further, contact us.

The Smart Chicago Model presentation

We update this presentation periodically with new information. Here's the current take, which was last updated in November 2014. Includes the philosophy & why the model works , the founders & their roles, the strategy & why it is important, the funding & how it gets done, and the work & how we do it.

Speech at City Club

Executive Director Daniel X. O'Neil gave a speech at City Club in September 2014 that covered our model in detail. Here's the video and here's complete text.