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