Chicago Attracts Increasing Numbers of Startups and Tech Companies

CHICAGO, IL (October 3, 2018) - Chicago has proven to be fertile ground for business as growing numbers of tech companies, including Amazon, have recently put down roots in the Windy City.

Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel launched the ChicagoNEXT program in 2013 to promote the city’s appeal for the tech world, by building relationships and community as well as improving the city’s IT infrastructure and STEM education. In July, the state of Illinois established the Department of Innovation and Technology for similar purposes on a state-wide scale.

"Unlike Silicon Valley, Chicago's startups and other tech companies have been developing new business models from scratch and getting them to thrive on their own without necessarily having them acquired by someone else," said Todd Thibodeaux, CEO of the tech trade association CompTIA.

"It's the Chicago DNA," Andy Cohen, COO of Snapsheet said. "The people here aren't afraid to get their hands dirty and get companies going.”

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Small Businesses are Booming in Chicago

CHICAGO, IL (February 7, 2018) - Eighty-eight percent of Chicago small business owners plan to expand their businesses this year, up from 72% last year, according to the Chicagoland Small Business Economic Outlook Survey. 71% of business owners expect higher revenue in 2018 and 42% plan to hire full-time employees this year. However, top concerns include hiring skilled employees and managing healthcare and cybersecurity.

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