This Week's Latest Tech News in Fort Collins, CO - Sunday April 20th 2025 Edition

Fort Collins is transforming into a major tech hub, with over 70% of venture capital now flowing from out-of-state investors.

The city hosts facilities for industry giants like Advanced Energy, Broadcom, and HP-E, driving innovation in AI, data security, and software development. Entry-level tech salaries now range from $65,000 to $85,000, reflecting the market's growth.

Major firms like Advanced Energy and Hewlett Packard Enterprise are actively hiring, with over 150 IT positions currently available.

The tech scene got a massive boost from a $40.5 million grant to Elevate Quantum, which is expected to create thousands of jobs by 2030.

Colorado State University's research funding exceeds $300 million annually, fostering innovation in clean energy and environmental science. The city's tech workforce benefits from flexible arrangements, with many companies offering remote and hybrid options.

High-demand skills include AI implementation, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, with data scientists earning up to $123,000 annually. This growth aligns with Fort Collins' City Plan, ensuring sustainable development while maintaining the city's quality of life.

GreenTech Solutions, an emerging force in the renewable energy sector, has secured $5 million in Series A funding as part of a larger trend that could see green tech investments reach $5 trillion by 2025.

This investment aligns with the company's mission of revolutionizing eco-friendly energy solutions in Fort Collins and beyond, focusing on solar panel production and advanced battery storage solutions.

The funding comes at a time when clean energy and sustainability startups are experiencing unprecedented growth, with over 43 green unicorns valued at more than $1 billion globally, representing 4.5% of the total unicorn market.

The implications of this funding are significant for both GreenTech and the local economy.

The company plans to enhance its research capabilities, expand its workforce by 40%, and accelerate the development of its patented solar technology. According to recent data, GreenTech Solutions ranks among the top 1,656 companies in its sector, competing with over 4,800 active companies in the green technology space.

The investment will support their strategic blueprint for scaling operations, with plans to enter new markets within the next 18 months and increase output by 50% by the end of 2026.

Looking forward, GreenTech is positioned to contribute significantly to Fort Collins' carbon reduction goals.

The capital infusion enables collaborations with local universities and tech communities, aligning with broader industry trends where energy and transport sectors account for over 51% of green tech investments.

With the growing focus on sustainable technologies and ESG compliance, GreenTech's expansion strengthens Fort Collins' position as a hub for green innovation, particularly as global investment in low-carbon projects is expected to surpass $1 trillion annually in emerging markets by 2025.

• GreenTech Solutions secured $5 million to further their eco-friendly energy initiatives, aiming to revolutionize the renewable energy sector.
• The planned workforce expansion of 40% is set to boost local employment, benefiting the Fort Collins economy significantly.
• Collaborations with local universities will enhance research and innovation, positioning Fort Collins as a green innovation hub.

The Northern Colorado Tech Conference 2023 transformed Fort Collins' tech landscape, drawing over 5,000 participants to explore innovation and collaboration.

The conference featured prominently at Denver Startup Week's regional highlights, showcasing Colorado's $1.8 trillion contribution to the U.S. economy through tech initiatives.

• Engagement in AI and Sustainability: Through 30+ breakout sessions, attendees engaged with artificial intelligence, blockchain, and sustainable technology.
• Dynamic Tech Ecosystem: The exhibition hall buzzed with 100 exhibitors, from startups to established companies, demonstrating the region's dynamic tech ecosystem.
• Insights on Energy and Economy: Jessica Wilson from GreenTech Solutions delivered insights on eco-friendly energy futures, while Lucas Ramirez shared digital economy trends.
• Amplifying Northern Colorado's Presence: The event coincided with the broader APEX Awards technology conference, amplifying Northern Colorado's position in the state's tech narrative.
• Impactful Networking: The conference proved particularly impactful for networking, generating 50 collaborative project proposals and fostering meaningful industry connections.
• Inclusivity in Education: Educational workshops emphasized inclusivity, with the Women in Technology track providing specialized sessions for emerging tech leaders.
• High Satisfaction Rate: Post-event surveys revealed an 85% satisfaction rate, with attendees praising the practical value of sessions and networking opportunities.
• Growth and Evolution: The conference's 25% annual growth underscores Fort Collins' evolution into a significant tech hub, aligning with Colorado's broader technical education and innovation initiatives.

This gathering served as more than an event - it became a catalyst for regional tech advancement, connecting local talent with industry leaders and fostering partnerships that continue to shape Northern Colorado's tech future.

Central State University's semiconductor program launches into high gear through a groundbreaking partnership with Intel, securing a $3 million National Science Foundation grant to spearhead semiconductor research and education.

The initiative includes collaboration with seven other HBCUs and focuses on developing a diverse semiconductor workforce. Through the Chicagoland Partnership for Semiconductors and Microelectronics Experiential Learning, students gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment and real-world projects.

The program offers paid internships, with participants receiving stipends of $5,000 and covering essential expenses like accommodation.

CSU's commitment to innovation extends beyond basic training, as demonstrated by their Partnership for Advancing Research Capacity in Semiconductors, which includes specialized research in AI quantum materials, sustainable waste management, and wide-bandgap materials development.

This comprehensive approach addresses the projected shortage of 67,000 semiconductor manufacturing jobs by 2030, while emphasizing diversity and inclusion in the tech sector.

Students benefit from industry-standard training in cleanroom environments, working with actual semiconductor fabrication tools and processes including wafer processing, photolithography, doping, etching, and deposition.

The program's strategic partnerships with major semiconductor companies ensure graduates are job-ready and connected to immediate career opportunities in this rapidly growing field.

The water purification industry is experiencing rapid transformation in 2025, with advanced water treatment technologies reshaping how we tackle global water challenges.

Solutech Incorporated's groundbreaking purification system, launched this week at their Fort Collins headquarters, exemplifies this evolution by incorporating several cutting-edge features.

The system utilizes nanofiltration technology, which according to recent market projections, is expected to reach $13.42 billion by 2030.

The technology stands out for its efficient removal of contaminants while consuming 40% less energy than conventional systems. Building on industry developments, Solutech has integrated IoT-enabled sensors for real-time monitoring, aligning with emerging water quality management standards that emphasize data-driven operations.

This smart monitoring capability allows for predictive maintenance and optimal performance tracking, crucial features for both urban and rural applications. The system's modular design makes it adaptable to various scales, from household units to industrial installations.

With water scarcity affecting nearly 30% of the global population, Solutech's innovation arrives at a critical time. The company's commitment to sustainability includes partnerships with local governments and NGOs, focusing on areas most impacted by water quality issues.

This development not only advances Fort Collins' reputation as a tech hub but also contributes to the broader goal of ensuring universal access to clean water by 2030.

The City of Fort Collins has launched a transformative tech education initiative in 2025, with the city's IT department providing crucial digital infrastructure and tools to support this ambitious program.

A standout feature is the PSD Career Tech Center, offering eight career pathways for high school students to develop in-demand skills and earn industry certifications.

This initiative has gained momentum through CSU's TechConnect program, which provides iPads and tech resources to first-time undergraduate students, ensuring equal access to technology across educational levels.

• Equal Access to Technology: The program includes comprehensive training sessions, workshops on digital literacy, and specialized support for students exploring tech careers. With a projected 15% growth in tech jobs and over 2,500 tech positions available in Fort Collins, this initiative directly addresses the growing demand for skilled tech professionals.
• Equipment and Mentorship: The city's investment includes providing high-tech equipment, software, and mentorship opportunities through partnerships with local tech companies. Students benefit from hands-on experience with industry-standard tools, regular training sessions, and direct connections to Fort Collins' expanding tech ecosystem.
• Promising Results: The initiative has already shown promising results, with participating schools reporting increased student engagement in STEM subjects and improved digital literacy rates.
• Future Goals: Looking ahead, the program aims to strengthen the pipeline between education and industry, preparing students for successful careers in technology while supporting Fort Collins' position as an emerging tech hub.

“This initiative directly addresses the growing demand for skilled tech professionals.”

Fort Collins has experienced a 28% surge in new tech companies during 2023, establishing itself as a hub for innovation across multiple sectors.

Leading this wave is Madwire, which has helped clients achieve 25% year-over-year revenue growth through their Marketing 360® platform, revolutionizing how businesses approach digital marketing.

The city's momentum is further accelerated by companies like BillGO and TurboTenant, who are transforming fintech and property management respectively.

BillGO's mobile bill management platform is streamlining payment processes, while TurboTenant's free landlord platform is modernizing rental property management.

The impact of these innovations extends beyond individual success stories.

Fort Collins' tech ecosystem has attracted over $11.4 billion in aggregate funding, with an average of $164.8 million per company.

This substantial investment has generated significant employment opportunities, with companies like OtterBox growing to employ approximately 700 people. The city's startup scene is particularly strong in cleantech, biotech, and software development, with many companies leveraging AI and machine learning for predictive analytics and real-time insights.

The collaborative spirit of Fort Collins' tech community, supported by organizations like Innosphere Ventures, has been crucial in fostering this growth.

As these startups scale, they're not just creating jobs - they're building solutions that address real-world challenges in sustainability, healthcare, and digital transformation.

The city's strategic location, combined with talent from Colorado State University, continues to attract innovative startups, positioning Fort Collins as an emerging leader in the national tech landscape.

Fort Collins is crushing it in 2025 with a major startup investment boom that's totally transforming the city's tech scene. The city now hosts 69 active startups, with companies like Madwire and BillGO leading the charge in fintech, AI, and IoT. Since 1999, startups here have pulled in over $1.2 billion in funding, with the Colorado Office of Economic Development dropping another $5.4 million to keep the momentum going.

Local incubators like Innosphere are playing a huge role in this growth, offering crucial support during those risky early stages.

The numbers don't lie - we're seeing a 15% growth in tech jobs, making Fort Collins a legit player in the startup game.

• Factors driving growth: Factor[e] Ventures and other VCs are stepping up, typically writing checks around $500K for promising startups.
• Investment influx: Local VCs secured nearly $800 million in public capital just in the first half of 2024.
• Sustainable focus: There's a huge push toward sustainable tech and clean energy solutions, with many startups working on eco-friendly innovations.

From cleantech to AI, Fort Collins is building an ecosystem that's attracting both talent and investment, proving that you don't need to be in Silicon Valley to make it big in tech.

The city's strategic commitment to fostering innovation, combined with its lower cost of living compared to traditional tech hubs, is creating a perfect storm for startup success.

Colorado State University is transforming into a powerhouse of technological innovation through strategic partnerships and facility investments. A new quantum incubator facility in Boulder's Flatiron Park represents a collaboration between CSU and other Colorado universities, promising to create over 10,000 jobs in the quantum industry within the next decade.

The university's commitment to cutting-edge research is further demonstrated by the construction of a $110 million Engineering and AI facility, which will feature innovation spaces and AI makerspaces designed to accommodate 700 additional engineering students by 2032.

These developments are complemented by a groundbreaking $150 million partnership with Marvel Fusion to establish a high-power laser and fusion research facility, positioning Fort Collins as an international epicenter for laser science and photonics research.

The university's investments in quantum technology, AI, and laser research are creating unprecedented opportunities for students while strengthening Colorado's position as a leading tech innovation hub.

CSU President Mary Thompson emphasizes that these initiatives aim to revolutionize industries, solve complex problems, and significantly improve lives through practical applications of emerging technologies.

The university's industrial advisory board facilitates vital connections between academic research and industry needs, ensuring that graduates are prepared for the evolving demands of the tech sector.

Fort Collins continues to evolve into a dynamic tech hub, with a new $3 million Tech Accelerator Program supporting local startups and driving innovation.

The city's IT infrastructure is expanding through initiatives like Fort Collins Connexion, the municipal fiber network, ensuring high-speed connectivity for businesses and residents.

The tech scene is growing rapidly, with nearly 2,500 tech jobs and a projected 15% growth rate in 2025. CSU's partnership with local firms has become a cornerstone of this development, with research investments reaching $742 million and fostering innovation across multiple sectors.

The city's commitment to sustainability is evident through its Building Performance Standards and clean energy initiatives, aiming for an 80% reduction in emissions by 2030.

A major highlight is the recent Fort Collins Tech Innovation Summit, which brought together 150 participants focused on AI and renewable energy solutions.

The median household income of $87,804 reflects the economic benefits of this tech growth, while community engagement has increased by 36% through new digital platforms.

These developments are transforming Fort Collins into a competitive tech destination, attracting both established companies and innovative startups to the region.

Fort Collins is transforming its tech landscape through innovative community engagement initiatives. The city's digital transformation efforts have led to a 36% increase in civic participation through AI-driven platforms and tools.

Local tech companies partner with community organizations to enrich educational programs, offering work-based learning opportunities and specialized training in emerging technologies.

The Tech Literacy Initiative, launched in partnership with local tech companies, continues to draw over 1,200 monthly participants to free workshops covering programming, cybersecurity, and emerging tech concepts.

The impact extends beyond education into civic innovation.

The city's strategic framework for engagement emphasizes inclusive listening and diverse perspective gathering, particularly in tech-related decision-making.

The Fort Collins Innovation and Engagement Center hosts bi-monthly Community Hackathons, where residents tackle local challenges through technology. A recent hackathon focusing on smart city solutions drew 250 participants who developed IoT-based infrastructure improvements.

Tech for All, Solutech Inc.'s flagship program, has expanded its reach to 30 schools, connecting industry professionals with approximately 10,000 students annually.

The program incorporates hands-on projects addressing real-world challenges, fostering practical innovation skills. Over 2,500 tech jobs and a projected 15% growth rate in 2025 highlight the importance of these initiatives in developing local talent and maintaining Fort Collins' position as a leading tech hub.

The median household income of $87,804 reflects the economic impact of these community-driven tech initiatives.

Fort Collins' tech scene is absolutely crushing it right now! The Tech Innovation Summit just wrapped with over 150 participants diving deep into AI and renewable energy developments.

Major players like Advanced Energy Industries, Broadcom, HP-E, and Intel are keeping Fort Collins at the cutting edge of tech innovation. The city's seeing a projected 15% growth in tech jobs, which is insane when you think about it.

CSU is stepping up big time with their smart agriculture initiatives - they're looking at a 30% efficiency boost by 2028. The Innosphere Ventures program is dropping some serious knowledge on how startups can access capital and scale up their operations.

The CO-WY Climate Resilience Engine launching this Digital Twins Accelerator Program - it's all about using tech to make our communities more resilient.

For anyone looking to break into tech, there's never been a better time to be in Fort Collins. The median household income is hitting $87,804, and with nearly 500 developers meeting up monthly at local breweries, the networking scene is absolutely popping.

Between the startup support, tech job growth, and innovative projects happening all over the city, Fort Collins is definitely the place to be for anyone serious about tech.