Samir Mayekar

Samir Mayekar is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Entrepreneurship at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and serves as the Associate Vice President and Managing Director of the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. He plays a central role in advancing innovation, technology commercialization, and entrepreneurship across the university and the broader Chicago region.

Education:

• B.A., Northwestern University
• M.B.A., Northwestern University

Research and Professional Interests:

Mayekar’s work intersects entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic development. He is particularly focused on translating academic research into real-world impact through technology commercialization and startup incubation. His leadership at the Polsky Center emphasizes fostering university-industry partnerships and driving inclusive economic growth, especially on Chicago’s South Side.

Previously, he co-founded and served as CEO of NanoGraf Corporation, a battery materials company spun out of Argonne National Laboratory and Northwestern University. He also served as Deputy Mayor of Chicago, leading the INVEST South/West initiative, a major community and economic development program.

Awards and Fellowships:

• Marshall Memorial Fellowship
• Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowship for New Americans

Leadership and Civic Engagement:

Mayekar is a trustee of Northwestern University and serves on the boards of the Metropolitan Pier and Exhibition Authority and the Lyric Opera of Chicago. He is also a visiting scholar at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, reflecting his ongoing contributions to economic policy and innovation ecosystems.