Chicago’s tech prowess is getting more recognition from the world’s tech scene. A new report from KPMG surveyed more than 800 tech leaders and found that Chicago is in the top 10 of tech innovation hubs worldwide.
The survey asked leaders to name three innovation centers outside of Silicon Valley. Shanghai, China took the top spot, followed by New York City. Chicago tied with Berlin and Washington, D.C. for sixth place.
KPMG Chicago’s Mike Gervasio said that the tech scene’s talent, infrastructure and training programs help to set Chicago apart, according to Crain's Chicago Business.
“It's not too surprising it made this list,” he said. “The area is well-positioned to be a leading tech hub for years to come."
Gervasio also cited the capital market and “an innovative culture” as contributing factors to Chicago making its mark on the global stage. That culture helped foster more than $1.7 billion in funding last year and hosts a raft of promising startups.
Chicago is also home to startups working on what the report cites as some of the most promising trends in tech, including artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. However, growing interest in voice and face recognition leaves room for Chicago startups to blossom.
Chicago’s tech pipeline is another strong point for its growing dominance. A plethora of coding schools and universities spitting out smart techies — combined with the city’s lower cost of living — means that Chicago is an attractive place for startups on the move.
The report also looked favorably at the United States as a whole, with nearly half of respondents naming it as the center of innovation despite China, Japan and the United Kingdom all showing up high on the list of global hubs.
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