1869Circle
The 1869Circle, named after the year AIA Chicago was founded, is a program of unprecedented recognition for AIA Chicago members who invest a cumulative amount of $10,000 or more in AIA Chicago sponsorships, advertising, and AIA Chicago Foundation support on an annual basis.
Partner Benefits
As an 1869Circle Partner, you will receive the following benefits:
- NEW in 2026: Highlighted listing in the AIA Chicago Affiliate Directory
- Recognition at all AIA Chicago events (including Designight, Guess-a-Sketch, Annual Meeting and Holiday Party, and designated Knowledge Community events and programs)
- (1) Complimentary Affiliate Membership
- Early access / first right of refusal for Sponsorship at designated events
- Company logo and link to your website on the 1869Circle page on the AIA Chicago website
- Company logo on the column wrap on the AIA Chicago office pillar
- A spotlight feature on designated AIA Chicago social media
- Recognition in new member welcome email communications
- Logo in an 1869Circle partner 'Thank You' advertisement in Chicago Architect
- Permission to use the AIA Chicago 1869Circle logo
- Presented with a 1869Circle partner recognition gift at an annual thank you event
- An annual partner wrap-up is available to all 1869Circle partners
Architecture Firm Qualification Checklist
All four qualifications must be met.- Sponsor a minimum of two AIA Chicago events, Selected from: Designight, Guess-a-Sketch, Annual Meeting, Holiday Party, Knowledge Communities, Affinity Groups, Professional Development Programs.
- Support of an AIA Chicago Foundation program or initiative (support starts at $1,000, tax deductible), selected from: Diversity Scholarship, Emerging Professionals Grant, Martin Roche Travel Scholarship, or indicate “where needed most.”
- Minimum of $10,000 in sponsorships and charitable giving to qualify.
- Membership (a member of the firm must be an AIA Chicago member).
Met the required qualifications?
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Suppliers, Vendors, and Consultants Qualification Checklist
All four qualifications must be met. In addition, partners are invited to contribute to the AIA Chicago Foundation.- Sponsor a minimum of two AIA Chicago events: Selected from: Designight, Guess-a-Sketch, Annual Meeting, Holiday Party, Knowledge Communities, Affinity Groups, Professional Development Programs.
- Advertise in Chicago Architect magazine (1869Circle partners receive discount pricing; ads start at $500).
- Minimum of $10,000 in sponsorships and advertising to qualify.
- Membership (Affiliate AIA Chicago Firm)
Met the required qualifications?
Contact Us
Thank you to our current 1869Circle Partners:
