This month’s Illinois Innovation Index examines how Chicago compares with other leading U.S. metropolitan regions on venture funding in terms of total investment, concentration of funding by industry, and funding sources. Venture capital activity is a crucial component of Illinois’ innovation ecosystem and a key indicator of investment trends for start-ups and entrepreneurs. As reported in the Q1 2013 quarterly Index report, the Chicago region has gained a reputation among start-ups and entrepreneurs as a hub where innovation-based companies can gain access to capital.