This Week's Latest Tech News in Chattanooga, TN - Sunday April 13th 2025 Edition

Chattanooga's tech landscape is reaching new heights in 2025, with EPB's groundbreaking 25 Gbps internet service now covering 600 square miles, serving 180,000 customers with zero data caps.

The city's tech sector has achieved a 25% increase in valuation, reaching $1.2 billion, while maintaining a steady 15% annual job growth. In healthcare tech, Chattanooga State's pioneering launch of Tennessee's first on-campus health clinic demonstrates the city's commitment to innovative solutions.

• Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Flourishing: The entrepreneurial ecosystem is thriving at the new Business Resource Center, opening in October 2025 with a $1.8M investment.
• Smart City Initiatives Expanded: Smart city initiatives have expanded dramatically, with the implementation of 1,400 smart switches reducing power outages by 50% and generating $2.69 billion in economic benefits.
• Pioneering C-V2X Technology: The integration of C-V2X technology across nearly 100 smart intersections, supported by a $3.2M Department of Energy grant, positions Chattanooga at the forefront of autonomous vehicle testing.

Local success stories include Branch Technology's $22 million funding achievement, highlighting the city's growing reputation as a hub for robotics and sustainable innovation.

As the average tech salary exceeds $90,000, Chattanooga continues to attract top talent and investment, cementing its position as a leading tech destination.

"Chattanooga is setting a new standard in tech innovation and economic growth," stated Michael Jackson, a leading tech analyst.

EPB's Rural Internet Expansion Initiative continues to transform Chattanooga's digital landscape in 2025. Building on their success as America's first community to offer multi-gig internet speeds, EPB is now extending their fiber network to underserved areas.

The initiative has already generated a $2.7 billion community benefit and created nearly 10,000 jobs in Hamilton County.

Working alongside local organizations, EPB has demonstrated remarkable progress in rural connectivity, with areas like Birchwood now joining the digital revolution.

Their innovative approach includes the HCS EdConnect program, which has connected over 16,000 students to high-speed internet at no cost to qualifying families.

The expansion plan targets 200,000 additional residents and businesses by early 2027, supported by a $50 million investment combining federal grants and private funding.

This growth involves laying 500 miles of new fiber infrastructure, significantly improving internet accessibility in rural regions. The initiative's impact extends beyond basic connectivity - it's revolutionizing telehealth access, enabling remote work opportunities, and transforming online education possibilities.

Local businesses are experiencing enhanced operational efficiency and expanded market reach through reliable high-speed internet.

• Economic value: Recent estimates project $35 million in annual economic value through increased business opportunities and technology sector job growth.
• Commitment to inclusion: EPB's commitment to digital inclusion has positioned Chattanooga as a model for other cities, demonstrating how strategic infrastructure investment can create lasting economic and social benefits.
• Future prosperity: As the network expands, these communities are gaining the tools needed for future prosperity and equal participation in the digital economy.

Local businesses are experiencing enhanced operational efficiency and expanded market reach through reliable high-speed internet.

EPB's commitment to digital inclusion has positioned Chattanooga as a model for other cities, demonstrating how strategic infrastructure investment can create lasting economic and social benefits.

As the network expands, these communities are gaining the tools needed for future prosperity and equal participation in the digital economy.

Chattanooga's transformation into a smart city powerhouse continues with EPB's groundbreaking implementation of over 1,400 smart switches, which has successfully reduced power outages by 50% across their 600-square-mile service area.

The city's commitment to innovation is evident through the deployment of dozens of smart intersections, enabling real-time traffic management and enhanced pedestrian safety.

Building on this momentum, a collaborative effort between Cornell University and the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority has secured a $3.2 million grant from the Department of Energy to revolutionize urban mobility, aiming to increase public transit usage from 1.6% to 5% while reducing per-person energy consumption by 10%.

The integration of AI-powered systems and smart sensors throughout the city has created an interconnected network supporting everything from traffic flow optimization to emergency response coordination.

This digital infrastructure has positioned Chattanooga as a model for smart city development, with the World Economic Forum selecting it as one of only two North American cities for their G20 Global Smart Cities Alliance.

The impact is already visible in improved service delivery, with the smart grid enabling instant communication across the network and supporting various applications in transportation, healthcare, and energy management.

EPB's investment has created or maintained over 9,500 jobs and generated $2.69 billion in economic benefits during its first decade of operation. Looking ahead, these initiatives are expected to contribute significantly to Chattanooga's goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, while maintaining its position as a leader in urban innovation and sustainability.

Chattanooga's startup ecosystem is transforming into a billion-dollar tech powerhouse, with the INCubator program leading the charge through its comprehensive three-year development initiative.

Operating from the Hamilton County Business Development Center, this hub has already created over 2,000 jobs and helped companies raise more than $284 million in funding.

The tangible impact is evident through success stories like Text Request and WorkHound, with the latter achieving up to 20% reduction in company turnover rates through their employee feedback platform.

Major players like Branch Technology are revolutionizing construction with their C-Fab® technology, while FreightWaves has secured $92.4 million in funding, demonstrating the robust investment climate.

The startup landscape is further enriched by CO.LAB's Sustainable Mobility Accelerator, which boasts a 70% success rate in securing pilot opportunities for founders within 6-12 months - significantly outperforming the national average of 30-50%.

This dynamic ecosystem has caught global attention, attracting entrepreneurs from over 40 countries and every U.S. state. Looking ahead to 2025, Chattanooga's tech sector is projected to contribute over $1.2 billion to the local economy, with specialized support systems fostering innovation across various sectors including healthcare technology, logistics, and sustainable solutions.

The city's transformation from a manufacturing hub to a technology center showcases how strategic support and community backing can create a thriving startup environment that attracts both talent and investment.

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) has emerged as a quantum computing powerhouse in 2025, marked by the establishment of the UTC Quantum Center through a $3.5 million NIST grant.

Under the leadership of inaugural director Dr. Rick Mukherjee, the center focuses on quantum research, workforce development, and industry collaboration.

A groundbreaking achievement includes the successful transmission of entangled quantum signals through EPB's commercial network, marking UTC as the first U.S. university with a permanent connection to a quantum network.

The center's research spans quantum algorithms, control theory, networking, and sensing, with particular emphasis on quantum-based simulation and information processing.

Working alongside partners like ORNL and EPB, UTC's quantum initiatives are driving technological advancement while preparing students for careers in quantum computing through specialized undergraduate and graduate programs.

The upcoming Quantum Technology Workshop in June 2025 will bring together leading researchers from institutions worldwide, solidifying UTC's position as a hub for quantum innovation.

This rapid progress in quantum research and development positions Chattanooga at the forefront of the quantum revolution, promising significant impacts across industries from cybersecurity to healthcare.

The TechX Conference 2025 in Chattanooga demonstrated the rapid evolution of technology and entrepreneurship through its three-day virtual format.

Drawing over 5,000 attendees globally, the conference featured eight co-located events exploring various facets of innovation. A highlight was the comprehensive AI and Big Data tracks, where industry experts shared insights on enterprise AI, machine learning, and data ecosystems.

The event's success was amplified by its flexible participation options, allowing both in-person and virtual attendance, which significantly boosted engagement levels.

The sessions covered crucial topics including emerging tools, event technology, and digital safety, sparking thoughtful discussions among participants.

Notable presentations focused on AI-generated content, cybersecurity, and the intersection of technology with public safety. The entrepreneurship track revealed Chattanooga's thriving start-up ecosystem, with local ventures securing over $100 million in funding last year.

Student-led presentations brought fresh perspectives on technology's impact on professional development, while panel discussions explored venture capital dynamics in the Southeast.

The conference successfully balanced technical depth with practical applications, featuring demonstrations of cutting-edge technologies and their real-world implementations.

Industry leaders emphasized Chattanooga's growing influence in the tech sector, with many noting the city's strategic position at the intersection of innovation and practical application.

The event concluded with calls for continued collaboration between academic institutions, industry partners, and local entrepreneurs, setting the stage for future technological advancements in the region.

Chattanooga is seriously leveling up its electric vehicle game in 2025! The city is going all-in with a major expansion that includes 86 new smart intersections equipped with advanced IoT technology to optimize EV charging station placement.

Chattanooga is using 3D-perception software and LIDAR sensors to track traffic patterns and predict where charging stations will be needed most. The city's already making waves as part of the Fast Charge TN Network, which aims to put charging stations every 50 miles along major highways.

As of January 2025, Tennessee's rocking more than 950 public charging stations, including 780+ Level 2 and 185 DC Fast stations. The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga's research team is collecting real-time data through their innovative EV charger analytics program, which helps predict usage patterns and measure environmental impact.

All this tech is expected to create hundreds of new jobs in the region, from installation crews to data analysts. The whole project shows how Chattanooga is becoming a serious player in the EV revolution, making it easier than ever for people to go electric while creating some pretty sweet career opportunities in green tech.

Chattanooga is transforming into a powerhouse of AI innovation, with tech sector revenues hitting $1.2 billion in 2025.

A groundbreaking initiative is underway as Cornell University partners with the city to test AI-driven neighborhood mobility systems, supported by a $3.2 million Department of Energy grant.

This project aims to revolutionize public transportation by integrating buses, on-demand shuttles, and bike shares through AI coordination. The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga continues fostering partnerships with tech giants like Microsoft and Google, while local innovators Robert Perez and Nancy Smith are making waves in educational AI implementation.

The impact of AI spans multiple sectors in Chattanooga.

Healthcare facilities leverage AI for enhanced diagnostics, while manufacturing plants use it to streamline operations. The city's ambitious public transit initiative aims to boost usage from 1.6% to 5% through AI-powered solutions.

Professor Ricardo Daziano from Cornell is spearheading the development of a choice-based recommender system that matches transport options with individual preferences, while Vanderbilt University's research team focuses on optimizing transit zones for efficiency and equity.

The local tech job market reflects this AI boom, with salaries for AI professionals ranging from $90,000 to $150,000.

Smart city applications extend to traffic management and energy efficiency, while AI-driven educational tools provide personalized learning experiences. With continued investment in research and development, Chattanooga is cementing its position as a leading AI innovation hub, proving that mid-sized cities can compete with traditional tech centers in advancing artificial intelligence applications.

Chattanooga's green tech scene is leveling up in 2025 with some serious sustainability moves. The city's new waste-to-energy system at Moccasin Bend is a game-changer, converting wastewater into renewable energy with a $150 million investment.

The Smart Grid Project continues to cut energy waste by 20%, while the Electric Bus Fleet keeps crushing it with emission reductions. Chattanooga has already dropped its energy demand by 27%, earning props from the U.S. Department of Energy as a top performer.

The city isn't stopping there - they're aiming for carbon neutrality in municipal operations by 2040 and community-wide by 2050. The Chattanooga Tree Project is adding thousands of trees across the city, boosting urban vitality while creating new jobs.

On the construction front, GreenTech Homes is pushing the envelope with developments featuring extensive green spaces and walkable neighborhoods, showing how sustainable living can be both practical and profitable.

The city's getting creative with their EPA Energy Star Portfolio Manager to track carbon footprints, switching to LED lights, and rolling out building automation systems.

Between the new solar installations, electric vehicle transitions, and community recycling programs, Chattanooga's proving that going green isn't just good for the planet - it's good for business too.

Plus, with the new biosolids program completion set for 2028, the city's laying down some serious infrastructure for long-term sustainability. Chattanooga isn't just talking about environmental progress - they're making it happen.

Chattanooga's cybersecurity landscape is experiencing a transformative shift in 2025. The local job market shows a 14% growth in cybersecurity positions, with companies like BlueCross BlueShield and Volkswagen expanding their security teams.

Following the recent NRS data breach affecting over 14,000 individuals, local organizations have prioritized cybersecurity measures, with 60% planning to implement AI-powered security solutions.

The city's response includes strengthening vendor security assessments, improving incident notification protocols, and establishing clear internal escalation procedures.

The upcoming Tennessee Digital Government Summit will focus on continuous monitoring, automated scanning, and risk-based patching strategies.

Major employers now offer starting salaries around $78,000 for cybersecurity roles, with an average field salary of $112,694. Companies are particularly seeking candidates skilled in cloud security and proactive threat detection.

The zero-trust security market is projected to reach $95.22 billion by 2030, reflecting the growing emphasis on comprehensive security measures. Local initiatives include regular security audits, employee training programs, and the implementation of advanced threat detection systems.

These efforts aim to protect Chattanooga's expanding digital infrastructure while fostering a culture of security awareness across organizations. The city's commitment to cybersecurity aligns with its broader technological evolution, supporting its reputation as a leading innovation hub in the Southeast.

Chattanooga's blockchain ecosystem is experiencing rapid evolution in 2025. Zfort Group, with over 500 successful blockchain projects, has established itself as a key player in the local tech landscape, specializing in DApp development and smart contract solutions.

The city's growing reputation has attracted significant talent, with blockchain developer salaries now reaching $150,000+ annually for experienced professionals.

However, the sector faces new challenges as crypto mining operations in East Tennessee raise concerns about energy consumption and grid stability.

The Tennessee Valley Authority reports a considerable number of mines across the region, with companies like Bitdeer consuming 9.4% of Knoxville's total electric sales.

Despite these challenges, the city continues to innovate, with local startups focusing on sustainable blockchain solutions.

• Smart contract platforms: Notable developments include smart contract platforms for property management, supply chain tracking systems, and decentralized finance applications.
• Healthcare data management: The city's blockchain initiatives are particularly gaining traction in healthcare data management and municipal operations, where transparency and security are paramount.

Local tech firms are adapting to market demands by offering specialized services in DApp development, crypto wallet creation, and blockchain consulting, while maintaining a balance between innovation and environmental responsibility.

This dynamic ecosystem has positioned Chattanooga as an emerging leader in blockchain technology, attracting both investment and talent to the region.

Chattanooga's tech sector is absolutely crushing it in 2025, with the industry now valued at $1.2 billion, marking a wild 25% increase from last year.

The city's game-changing internet infrastructure, powered by EPB's 25 Gbps speeds across 600 square miles, has created over 9,500 jobs and generated $2.69 billion in economic benefits.

Cornell University is helping transform the city's transit system into an AI-powered network, aiming to boost public transit usage from 1.6% to 5%.

Microsoft's TechSpark program is keeping the momentum going, pumping resources into the startup scene through the Chamber's INCubator, which has already generated over $70 million in economic impact.

The tech job market is on fire, with companies like Text Request showing insane growth - we're talking 441% over three years! Plus, ChaTech (Chattanooga Technology Council) is making moves to keep the innovation flowing with regular meetups and hack nights.

With an average tech salary now exceeding $90,000 and initiatives in everything from AI to renewable energy, Chattanooga isn't just talking about being a tech hub - it's actually becoming one.

Whether it's Branch Technology's 3D printing breakthroughs or FreightWaves' logistics innovation, the Gig City is seriously living up to its nickname.