GenNext: Early Career Professionals Events

Who is GenNext?

We're the future of media, marketing, and advertising in Chicago. GenNext is your creative crew-made for students, pivoters, and early-career pros ready to make moves.

It's more than a network-it's where careers launch, leaders rise, and bold ideas get built. We host workshops, mixers, mentorships, and major city-wide events that reflect the real you.

Ready to lead? You'll have a chance to shape our newsletter, run events, join CAF committees-or even earn a seat on the board.

Gennext

About GenNext

GenNext is the community within the Chicago Advertising Federation for members within the first 10 years of their career. We're building the next generation of industry leaders through connection, education, and opportunity.

GenNext-Get Involved

Join the Team

We're looking for passionate individuals to help shape the future of GenNext.
Open roles include:

  • Content Creator
  • Events Coordinator
  • Community Manager
  • Membership Lead

 

Express Interest

Become a Member

Join our community of emerging professionals and gain access to exclusive events, mentorship opportunities, and more.

  • Networking Events
  • Professional Development
  • Leadership Opportunities
  • Mentorship Program

 

Join Now

 

Membership Tiers

To learn more about membership tiers please click the button below.

View Membership Tiers

 

Sponsorship Opportunities

Connect your brand with Chicago's emerging talent in media, marketing, and advertising. As a GenNext sponsor, you'll have the opportunity to:

  • Co-create events that showcase your brand and values
  • Fund scholarships for students and early-career professionals
  • Shape content that resonates with the next generation of industry leaders
  • Connect with top talent for recruitment opportunities

 

Request the Sponsorship Playbook

 

Sponsorship

 

Upcoming Events & Meetings

 

 

 

GenNext Town Hall

GenNext Newsletter

A quarterly digital zine built for your pace.

Our newsletter is more than just updates-it's a platform for emerging voices in the industry. Each issue features:

  • Bite-sized insights on industry trends and innovations
  • Career spotlights from members making moves
  • Real stories from real people in the Chicago advertising scene
  • Built by the community, for the community

Subscribe to the newsletter below: