Silicon Valley has long been the home of the United States’ best programmers, startups, tech innovations, and more recently – bulletproof coffee.
Is River North on that level? Well, not yet. But it is Chicago’s blossoming tech epicenter, and the potential for growth is absolutely enormous. The neighborhood has seen a tremendous uptick in tech business growth over the past few years, and with large corporations like ConAgra recently announcing their big move to Chicago, it’s showing no signs of stopping.
Currently, River North is the home of business like Yelp, Motorola Mobility, Braintree, GoHealth, Trunk Club, Razorfish, Groupon, and Thinkorswim – most of which are located within the Merchandise Mart. Another company that began in Chicago 87 years ago, Motorola Solutions, is expected to announce the full details of their return to River North sometime over the coming months. Needless to say, there’s no shortage of tech startups or excitement about the area’s growth.
Just ask Shane Cruz, Chief Technology Officer of GoHealth, who recently stated that, “River North’s tech community has incredible momentum and it is exciting to be a part of it. The startup scene is unique because even though the companies in River North are well funded, there is not an abundance of over-funded companies.”
Cruz couldn’t be any more spot on, as the seemingly endless supply of startups continue to sprout up in places like 1871. It’s certainly a unique situation as 1871 provides office space, resources, and events for local startups in the area. The entire 12th floor of the Merchandise Mart is encompassed by this revolutionary setup, and the intimate space allows salespeople, designers, and coders alike to share their ideas & network with other entrepreneurs on a daily basis.
Looking to get in on the action? Contact our commercial real estate brokers at Shetland to fine the best space for you.