Cecilia Benitez

Cecilia is a mission-driven program leader and startup strategist with extensive experience designing and delivering initiatives that support underrepresented founders, early-stage startups, and innovation ecosystems. She brings a strong foundation in founder engagement and entrepreneurship programming, along with exposure to the venture capital landscape through leadership training and industry fellowships.

Currently, Cecilia serves as Manager of Inclusive Partnerships at World Business Chicago, where she focuses on strengthening collaboration between industry leaders, civic institutions, and the City of Chicago. Her work supports strategic initiatives alongside the organization’s Board of Directors, the Mayor’s Office, and workforce development partners, helping align business growth, talent development, and inclusive economic outcomes across the region.

She is also a leader within the Chicago Tech Collaborative, where she helps convene cross-sector stakeholders and build community among founders, operators, and ecosystem partners to drive a more connected and inclusive tech landscape in Chicago.

Cecilia has led startup competitions, accelerator programs, and community-building efforts across both the tech and nonprofit sectors, with a focus on expanding access and opportunity. Beyond her professional work, she is deeply engaged in civic and community leadership as a member of the Cook County Council on Digital Equity, a board member of Youth Outlook supporting LGBTQ+ youth, and the host of the Chicago Techies podcast.