FACC GALA 2026

THE POWER OF CONNECTION

The annual FACC Gala is the largest annual celebration of the French-American business community in the Chicagoland area, honoring outstanding organizations with the Business Awards and fostering new connections.

80 years. That's how long Harvard studied what makes humans truly flourish. Their answer? Relationships. Above money. Above ambition. Above everything. 
Last night, 200+ people across 100+ companies proved it.

We were honored to be joined by Monsieur le Ministre-Conseiller Benjamin Dubertret, Head of Finance and Economic Division at the Embassy of France in the United States and Madame la Consule Générale Charlotte MONTEL, a powerful reminder that our transatlantic ties have never been stronger. 
We were inspired by keynote speaker Cecile Beliot-Zind, CEO of BEL Group, the driving force behind a French family-owned company turned American growth engine, with $350M+ invested in US manufacturing and sustainability at the core of every ambition. She put it simply: Connection is a strength. Connection is a true accelerator of progress. 

Heartfelt thank you to our MC Valerie Chevalier, who carried the evening with elegance and warmth. 

Evenings like this are also a testament to the power of teaming up: with Business France North America, French Foreign Trade Advisors, Consulate General of France in Chicago, French Tech Chicago, World Business Chicago. When the ecosystem moves together, the impact multiplies.

Congratulations to Our Laureates

Transatlantic Business Excellence

MANITOU Group

Brad Boehler & Alexandre Caharel

Sustainability & Impact

Eramet Marietta, Inc.

Anne Kadima

Entrepreneur in the Midwest

Marketing Movers

Jean-Pierre Le Cannellier & Brian Mehta

Jury Prize

Bel

Negar Sedghi

Our Sponsors & Partners

Keep growing. Keep nurturing your connections.

The best chapter is still ahead. Save the date for 2028, the FACC's 50th Anniversary.

Merci, from the Operations teams, Midwest team, Executive Committee led by Habib Moudachirou, and Board Members to every single one of you who filled that room.

You are the FACC.

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