Events
Reimagining the Loop
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Shifting perceptions and false narratives about Chicago are impacting businesses across industries. Join us Wednesday, April 22, for a FREE happy hour event bringing together Loop business leaders and marketers to explore how data-driven marketing and collective storytelling can reclaim the narrative and reposition the Loop as the epicenter of commerce and culture.
What To Expect
Chicago had its safest year since 1965, but you wouldn’t know it from the headlines. That disconnect is costing Loop businesses, from a decline in foot traffic to strained talent pipelines. This panel discussion and presentation will leave you with:
- An unfiltered look at how the media narrative is impacting operations across live, work and play
- Actionable marketing, branding and PR strategies built specifically for Loop businesses
- Real search and AI data showing what consumers are actually asking about the Loop, and how to make your business the answer
Reimagining the Loop
THE NARRATIVE IS WRONG. ARE YOU READY TO CHANGE IT?
Meet The Speakers
This Marketing Disrupted event brings together a panel of Chicago business leaders who experience this challenge every day. Each speaker offers a ground-level perspective on how the perception gap is affecting their industry. 1905 New Media will then share real data and actionable marketing frameworks to combat the perception problem for your business. Learn more about our speakers below!
THE moderator
Ariella Gibson, Director of Marketing and Communications at Chicago Loop Alliance
Ariella Gibson works to promote Chicago’s Loop through digital communications and media relations. She has a Master’s degree from DePaul University in Public Relations and Advertising, and dual degrees from The University of Alabama in Marketing and Restaurant, Hotel & Meetings Management. Previous speaking engagements include the 2020-2024 International Downtown Association’s Annual Conference; 2021 New York City Neighborhood Leadership Strategy Day; IDA Advancing Places webinar series; and PRSSA Midwest Conference.
Group Fireside Chat
Nate Ernst, Principal/Founder at Envoi Partners
Nate Ernst has built a career tackling the projects others pass on. At Envoi Partners, he’s leading the transformation of 19 S. LaSalle St. from a century-old office building into a 200-unit boutique residential building — a project he sees as a catalyst for turning LaSalle Street into Chicago’s best new neighborhood. Before founding Envoi, he acquired and repositioned more than 40 properties through Ernst Development Company.
Mark Kelly, Chair – Loop Arts District Caucus
Mark Kelly spent 40 years reshaping how Chicago experiences its culture. As the former Commissioner of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, he led landmark initiatives at Millennium Park and the Chicago Cultural Center, launched ART on THE MART and championed public art across the city’s neighborhoods. He now chairs the Loop Arts District Caucus in partnership with the Chicago Loop Alliance.
Phil Clement, President & CEO – World Business Chicago
Phil Clement leads World Business Chicago, the city’s flagship economic development organization. He is the architect of Chicago 2050, the city’s first comprehensive economic strategy since 2012, and has championed the WOW! Corridor — a cultural and economic spine connecting the Obama Presidential Center, Navy Pier, Museum Campus and O’Hare modernization. He brings more than 70 quarters of C-suite experience from Aon and Johnson Controls.
keynote presenter
Lindi Schaeffer, Vice President – 1905 New Media
In her leadership roles, Lindi operates at the intersection of visionary business leaders and creative marketers, positioning her to help transform a century-old print company into a thriving integrated agency that appeared on the Inc. 5000 list two years in a row. She brings nearly 20 years of experience helping organizations grow their digital presence and convert audiences into customers. Her career spans corporate communications and market research in the renewable energy sector, leading go-to-market strategies for startups within a tech incubator, and driving growth campaigns for brands of all sizes. With a strong foundation in consumer behavior, Lindi is known for connecting strategy and data to deliver meaningful impact.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
This event wouldn’t be possible without the support of organizations invested in the future of the Loop.
Before You Go
Curious about how AI is transforming SEO and want a sneak peek before the event? Our latest blog dives into actionable strategies for leveraging AI to boost your search rankings and drive results.
