Ideal Path: Tech & Opportunity Expo

Join us for an inspiring day of access, empowerment, and opportunity at the IdealPath: Tech & Opportunity Expo, a dynamic event designed to connect underrepresented and youth of color with local employers, career resources, and tech pathways. Hosted by TheIdealCandidate.org

IdealPath: Tech & Opportunity Expo aimed at educating, inspiring, and connecting underrepresented and youth of color with local job opportunities. This collaborative event, led by The Ideal Candidate NFP, aligns with shared values of empowerment, access, and inclusion, and will serve as a meaningful activation of Navy Pier's commitment to community impact.

Why Navy Pier? Hosting this event at Navy Pier provides greater visibility, access, and dignity to the experience for youth who often lack exposure to professional environments. This space offers not only capacity but community value and pride that will elevate the opportunity for every participant.

About the Organizers

Ideal Candidate:Ideal Candidate is a nonprofit organization committed to preparing youth of color for the workforce by equipping them with the soft skills training and essential workforce tools, knowledge, and confidence to pursue meaningful careers. Through culturally responsive workshops focused on soft skill and executive presence, career coaching, and corporate partnerships, Ideal Candidate creates direct pipelines to employment and empowers the next generation of professionals with the skills they need to thrive in today’s job market. Their mission is rooted in eliminating opportunity gaps and fostering equity in hiring practices.

Dándole Tech:Dándole Tech is committed to bridging the Digital Divide by equipping youth with repurposed technology and empowering them through hands-on learning. Their mission is to ensure students have access to the tools they need to succeed while fostering innovation and self-sufficiency through tech-focused classes. By collaborating with partner organizations and leveraging the passion and expertise of our dedicated volunteers, they strive to create lasting impact and inspire the next generation of tech leaders.

Our Collective ImpactTogether, our organizations have engaged hundreds of youth across the city with job placement opportunities and professional development resources. Every table, speaker, and opportunity provided is designed with intention so they can break barriers and build our community. Thank you for considering our proposal. We look forward to working together in creating pathways to opportunity for our future leaders.

Kevin Davenport, Founder/CEO at The Ideal Candidate