The technology scene in Columbus is heating up and you don’t have to take our word for it — a study from JLL Columbus shows 2021 was a booming year for the tech sector. And today, we are looking at what that means for the city, and for our future.
A quick overview
JLL Columbus tracked 100 tech companies in Columbus and through this, they found 80% are considered in the early stages or emerging. This means there’s “significant runway for even more growth.” Through this, Columbus’ tech report reads as the following:
- No. 1 city for tech workers
- Top metro for staffing potential
- Top U.S. city for entrepreneurs + startups
The proof is in the numbers, too. Columbus now ranks 20th in the nation for venture capitalists funding — where larger businesses and firms provide money to start-ups — and the city surpassed the $1 billion mark last year. This includes investments into Lower.com ($100 million) and Forge Biologics ($120 million).
Check out how CBUS stacks up against other cities | Photo via JLL Columbus
The benefits of Columbus
Columbus offers the edge of affordability — when compared to San Francisco, tech companies can save $900,000+ by setting up here. This has led to major businesses setting up secondary headquarters here, including Chipotle and Intel.
The future of technology in Columbus
The community can expect to see more of a technology presence throughout the city after tech companies were reportedly responsible for 35% of leasing activity since 2020. Common names you might see more often include:
- CoverMyMeds who is expected to complete their second office building this year
- Root Insurance Co. who just expanded into a new mixed-use building in downtown
- Candid Care who is now leasing the remaining space at the newly renovated Dispatch Tower