Breaking: I can confirm the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon raised a record 47.1 million dollars for charity. That is the largest total in the race’s history. It moves the event beyond sport and into the realm of serious civic finance. It is also a clear signal that Chicago’s fall marathon has become a dependable economic engine, with ripple effects across hotels, airlines, retailers, and local small businesses.
Philanthropy at scale, with a human face
The marathon’s Charity Program has now generated more than 405 million dollars since 2002. The 2025 surge was powered by thousands of small gifts and a few standout efforts. Jim Preschlack became the top single fundraiser in event history, bringing in 335,665 dollars in honor of his wife’s lung cancer recovery. That kind of personal story pulls new donors into the pipeline and keeps them engaged well after race day.
Record raised in 2025, 47.1 million dollars for nonprofits, pushing lifetime giving over 405 million dollars.
This is not a one day win. Charities gain first time donors who often convert to monthly giving. Corporate teams use the race as a platform for employee engagement and matching gifts. The flywheel is turning faster, and it is tied to the marathon’s growing global field.
The business of race week
Race weekend is big business for Chicago. The 2024 marathon produced a record 683 million dollars in regional economic impact, up 22 percent from the prior year. Tourism activity alone accounted for nearly 177 million dollars. With more than 54,000 finishers in 2025, plus families and fans, the city once again saw full hotels, busy restaurants, and sold out tours.
Hotels near Grant Park typically push rates higher when the city fills. Urban hospitality names with Chicago exposure benefit most during race week, as do short term rental operators. Restaurants across River North, West Loop, and the Loop see strong covers from carb loading to celebration dinners. Ride share volumes climb. Retailers selling jackets, gloves, and souvenir gear enjoy a multi day lift as weather and emotion drive purchases.
The economic story does not end on Sunday. The marathon delivers brand equity for Chicago that helps sell future conventions and leisure trips. That reputational boost matters in bid rooms and boardrooms.
Market watch, where investors should look
The marathon is not a stock picker’s crystal ball. It is, however, a clean read on several demand lanes that matter to public markets and private operators.
- Airlines with large Chicago hubs, including United and Southwest, get a useful October traffic pop.
- Running and athleisure brands, such as Nike, On, Deckers for Hoka, and Lululemon, lean into marathon storytelling that supports full price sell through.
- Hospitality REITs with urban portfolios see occupancy and rate strength around the event, which supports quarterly RevPAR.
- Payment and donation platforms benefit from high volume small gifts, which can leave lasting customer relationships.
Sponsorship value is rising too. Bank of America’s name sits on a property that now moves tens of millions to charity and hundreds of millions into the local economy. That equity reinforces marketing spend, not just for finance, but for consumer brands that activate along the course.
Past performance, even for citywide events, is not a guarantee of future returns. Use this as context, not as personal investment advice.
Elite results that sell the city
Athletes delivered on speed, which sells the spectacle and the city. Jacob Kiplimo won in 2:02:23, the second fastest time ever in Chicago. Conner Mantz set a new American record at 2:04:43, ending a 23 year wait. Hawi Feysa clocked 2:14:56, one of the fastest women’s times seen on this course. These marks matter. They draw global TV coverage, bigger sponsor activations, and more international tour entries.
The 47th running was also one of the largest ever, with more than 54,000 finishers. Scale plus speed is a rare mix in global sport. Chicago now owns it.
2026 outlook, how to play it
Organizers are already preparing for Sunday, October 11, 2026. More than 200,000 applications are in. Charity and tour operator entries are available, but spots are getting tight. Expect travel and lodging premiums around race week, given steady demand and limited inventory near the start and finish.
Want a 2026 bib? Charity entry is the most certain path. Lock your spot early, confirm your fundraising minimum, and book hotels with flexible rates.
Local businesses should plan staffing, inventory, and pricing in advance. Think pasta, coffee, and grab and go breakfast. Think cold weather layers at the register. The window to capture sales opens on Thursday and peaks by Monday morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much did the 2025 Chicago Marathon raise for charity?
A: 47.1 million dollars, the most in event history.
Q: What is the broader economic impact for Chicago?
A: The 2024 race generated 683 million dollars, including 177 million in tourism activity. The 2025 field was similarly large, which points to continued strong local spending.
Q: What are the investable angles here?
A: Watch airlines with Chicago hubs, urban hotel operators and REITs, running and athleisure brands, and payment platforms tied to charitable giving.
Q: How do I secure a 2026 entry?
A: Apply now, or grab a charity or tour entry while they remain. Charity spots are the most reliable path.
Q: Which elite results stood out in 2025?
A: Jacob Kiplimo won in 2:02:23. Conner Mantz set the American record at 2:04:43. Hawi Feysa ran 2:14:56 in the women’s race.
The Chicago Marathon just proved it can be two things at once, a world class race and a financial force for good. The 47.1 million dollar haul fuels nonprofits now, and the citywide impact keeps paying forward. For investors, operators, and runners, the 2026 runway is already open.
