In a virtual event, Mayor Brandon Johnson and World Business Chicago announced that Pirkx, a London-based insurtech company, has chosen Chicago as its U.S. headquarters. The announcement was made in an event connecting officials from both cities, including Pirkx founder and CEO Stella Smith.
The event saw participation from representatives of World Business Chicago and local small business owners in the Bronzeville neighborhood. As part of their commitment to empowering small businesses, Pirkx provided complimentary memberships to its platform for 10 local businesses.
Pirkx addresses the lack of workplace well-being benefits available to many workers globally by offering over 40 benefits related to health, wealth, and education through a flexible technology platform. Mayor Brandon Johnson remarked on the significance of Pirkx's decision: "Chicago is a destination of choice for forward-thinking companies like Pirkx."
The selection of Chicago as the company's U.S. base was influenced by efforts from World Business Chicago’s Chief Growth Officer Kyle Schulz and Director of Foreign Direct Investment Karla Orozco. Their work highlights the city's focus on international business development.
Founded in January 2019 by Stella Smith, Pirkx aims to provide freelancers and small business employees with wellness benefits such as counseling services and discounts on various products. Supported by initiatives like the UK-Australia Fintech Bridge, Pirkx plans further expansion into markets like Australia.
Smith stated her vision for global growth: “The opportunity is enormous... our aim is to revolutionize well-being access for the global workforce.” The company anticipates growing its employee base in Chicago to 50 over the coming years.
Kyle Schulz commented on this development: "We are in the business of promoting Chicago to the world." Rhonda McFarland from Quad Cities Development Corp expressed gratitude towards Mayor Johnson and World Business Chicago for supporting local businesses with innovative solutions like Pirkx.
This announcement aligns with broader efforts led by Mayor Johnson and World Business Chicago aimed at fostering international partnerships and economic growth opportunities for the city.