Tom Ricketts, Executive Chairman of the Chicago Cubs, has been named the 34th recipient of the Daniel H. Burnham Award for Distinguished Leadership by the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce. The award, which honors civic-minded leaders who have made significant contributions to Chicago’s business and community landscape, will be presented at the Burnham Award Dinner.
The Burnham Award recognizes individuals whose commitment to civic involvement aligns with the vision of Daniel H. Burnham, a key figure in Chicago’s urban planning history. Since its inception, it has celebrated those who help shape Chicago into a thriving city for both business and residents.
Ricketts led his family’s acquisition of the Chicago Cubs in 2009. At that time, he outlined three main goals: win a World Series, save and preserve Wrigley Field, and be a good neighbor. These objectives have guided his leadership of the franchise.
Under Ricketts’ direction, the Cubs modernized their operations and invested in player development. This approach contributed to the team’s 2016 World Series victory—their first championship in 108 years—which was widely celebrated across Chicago. His efforts were recognized nationally when he was named Sports Business Journal’s Executive of the Year in 2017.
The organization also undertook a $1 billion privately funded renovation of Wrigley Field and its surrounding area through what became known as the “1060 Project.” This initiative preserved Wrigley Field’s historic character while updating infrastructure and amenities for players and fans. The project did not use public funds and has been described as one of professional sports’ most significant preservation efforts.
Ricketts played a role in transforming Wrigleyville into a year-round destination with projects like Gallagher Way—a public space hosting concerts, markets, festivals, and other activities—making it an example of mixed-use development that benefits both residents and visitors.
Since 2009, Cubs Charities has invested more than $53 million in youth sports and education programs throughout all 77 neighborhoods in Chicago.
Before his tenure with the Cubs, Ricketts founded Incapital LLC (now InspereX) in 1999. He is credited with expanding access to fixed-income investments for individual investors and received recognition from Institutional Investor Magazine as well as Ernst & Young’s Midwest Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2010.
Ricketts also serves on boards for several civic and cultural organizations in Chicago. His board memberships reflect support for institutions involved in education, science, tourism, and economic growth within the region.
“Tom Ricketts exemplifies the standards of the Daniel H. Burnham Award: blending visionary leadership with inclusive, impactful civic advancement. His dedication to preserving Chicago’s heritage while shaping its future through equitable development, sustainability, and community service speaks to the very heart of what makes our city exceptional,” according to a statement from the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce.
The Chamber invites members of the community to attend this year’s Burnham Award Dinner honoring Tom Ricketts’ contributions to building a stronger Chicago.