Chicago, Illinois
Innovation with
Midwestern roots.
Hamkey LLC is a Chicago-based innovation practice. We tackle real-world problems, mentor the people solving them, and build toward a more sustainable future — guided by the pragmatism, craft, and quiet ambition of the Midwest.
What we believe in
Three commitments that shape every problem we take on.
Solving real problems
We focus on the messy, human problems worth solving — not novelty for its own sake.
Mentorship & thought leadership
Sharing what we've learned across 25+ years — through writing, mentoring, and lifting the next generation.
A sustainable future
Building durable systems, lightweight technology, and ideas that hold up for the long term.
Ideas in motion
Explore more →WeNeedSubs
Ice hockey subs made simple.
A location-aware app that connects beer-league teams with reliable substitute players so games never get forfeited.
weneedsubs.comCraig Hamill
Technologist. Transformative. Innovation.
Personal site and writing of Craig Hamill — 25+ years leading digital transformation and research technology.
craighamill.com"Craig brings a rare combination of pragmatism and craft. He sees the long arc of a system before most people see the next sprint — and he ships."
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Rooted in Chicago.
Built for the long view.
We take cues from the city around us. Lake Michigan teaches patience and respect for systems bigger than yourself. Chicago architecture — from Sullivan to Mies — teaches that good structure and honest materials never go out of style.
That's how we approach software. Sustainable choices, clear foundations, and work we'll still be proud of in ten years.