Chicago’s tech ecosystem is relatively small and tight-knit; it can feel difficult to find a way on the inside. An East Coast transplant myself, I know the overwhelming feeling of starting from scratch. I also help guide career-changers and recent grads into new jobs in the Chicago tech community everyday at my role at Startup Institute, so I know the frustration of not knowing what you don’t know.
I’ve learned that being a part of this proud community means being able to talk about some of the recent trends. So if you want to learn more about the Chicago ecosystem, or you’re already in it, here’s a nifty introduction that aggregates key stats relating to the massive growth this community has seen recently.
Talent Pool:
Illinois has the fourth most startup employees of any state in the country
Highly educated workforce with 76% attaining bachelor’s degrees, and 36% master’s - a rate 3x the national average
24% of Illinois grads complete STEM degrees, with many major universities within close proximity to city limits
High Growth and Open Roles:
16 of the fastest growing tech companies in Chicago promised to add 1000 jobs in 2015
Mayor Rahm Emmanuel has committed to double the tech sector within the next ten years
Chicago is the 5th largest and 11th fastest growing tech market in the US
Funding Trends:
Chicago tech veterans are committing even more to the ecosystem’s growth by raising their own funds aimed at early-stage tech startups
2014 was the best year ever for Chicago tech financing with $1.6B in investment and $7B in investment
With both public and private support, Chicago’s tech community has seen explosive growth over the past few years, with all signs pointing towards future growth.
The major takeaway is that with investment, comes job opportunities. If you’re looking to get involved with tech in Chicago, now might be the perfect time.
If you have other posts related to the topic, please comment below! We’d love to continue the conversation.
