This Week's Latest Tech News in Oklahoma City, OK - Sunday April 13th 2025 Edition

Oklahoma City's tech transformation has hit a major milestone in 2025, with the city ranking 19th among North America's top up-and-coming tech markets.

The tech workforce has expanded to 22,590 employees, making it the third-largest workforce among emerging markets. Tech wages have surged 17% over the past five years, reflecting the sector's robust growth.

Major investments are reshaping the landscape, including Raytheon Technologies' $255 million aerospace facility and significant developments in advanced air mobility technologies.

The city's innovation ecosystem is further strengthened by the THETA initiative, focusing on autonomous technologies, cybersecurity, and AI, with potential to create 200,000 new high-wage jobs.

Strategic initiatives from the Oklahoma Department of Commerce are attracting 5-7 new company inquiries weekly, particularly in data centers and AI. Looking ahead, the city's tech sector is positioned for continued growth, supported by affordable living costs and business-friendly policies that are drawing both startups and established tech companies to the region.

i2E Inc., a cornerstone of Oklahoma's entrepreneurial ecosystem since 1998, has significantly impacted the state's tech landscape with investments totaling $77 million across 186 companies.

Operating from their headquarters at 840 Research Parkway in Oklahoma City, i2E has provided essential business guidance to nearly 800 startups.

• Bridge2 Pre-Accelerator and E3 Bootcamp programs: Comprehensive 16-week and 6-week training sessions focusing on funding strategies, market analysis, and business fundamentals. Offered through these programs.

Under the leadership of President Christopher Martinez, i2E manages several key initiatives including the Oklahoma Technology Commercialization Center and the Technology Business Finance Program, which are designed to spur economic growth through technology commercialization.

The organization's impact extends beyond direct investment, with their supported companies securing over $590 million in private funding. Their focus industries include software and IT, healthcare and biotechnology, energy, and manufacturing, creating a diverse portfolio that strengthens Oklahoma's economic foundation.

Working alongside partners like OCAST and maintaining strong connections with both Oklahoma City and Tulsa chambers of commerce, i2E continues to drive innovation and economic development throughout the state.

• Love's Entrepreneur Cup: A business plan competition fostering the next generation of Oklahoma entrepreneurs, providing crucial networking opportunities with investors and industry leaders.

Google's latest tech expansion in Oklahoma has shifted focus to Stillwater, where the company has unveiled plans for a massive data center development valued at up to $3 billion.

The project, located at the intersection of Perkins and Richmond Roads, represents a major investment in the state's growing tech infrastructure. Each of the planned six data centers will span 300,000 square feet, with construction expected to begin in 2025 and the first phase completed by 2027.

The development marks Google's second major presence in Oklahoma, complementing their existing facility in Pryor.

• Economic Impact: The project will generate approximately 30-36 high-paying technical jobs per building phase, with direct payments benefiting local institutions including Stillwater Public Schools, Meridian Technology Center, and Payne County government.
• Focus on AI: The facility will focus heavily on artificial intelligence operations, positioning Oklahoma as an emerging hub for advanced technology development.
• Community Benefits: Through a 25-year tax incentive agreement, Google will make payments in lieu of property taxes, ensuring sustained community benefits while maintaining competitive operational costs.
• Attraction to Tech Companies: The development reflects Oklahoma's growing appeal to tech companies, driven by factors such as affordable and reliable energy infrastructure and a supportive business environment.

Oklahoma's commitment to tech innovation takes a major leap forward with the Oklahoma Innovation Expansion Program (OIEP), which has allocated $15 million in funding for 2025.

Building on the state's momentum, Senator Kristen Thompson's Oklahoma Forward agenda introduces SB 324, offering enhanced tax credits for research and development activities to accelerate job creation in the tech sector.

The program's scope includes a maximum award of $150,000 per qualifying company, with specific requirements including a minimum capital expenditure of $50,000 and annual payroll of $625,000.

For 2024, OIEP has already demonstrated significant impact:

• 180 projects supported: The program funded $14.06 million, generating 849 new jobs.
• $52.7 million in capital expenditures: Catalyzing significant growth and infrastructure development.

The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber's 2025 agenda reinforces these initiatives by prioritizing Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, creating a comprehensive support system for early-stage tech companies.

This strategic approach aims to position Oklahoma as a prime destination for tech innovation, combining financial incentives with infrastructure development and workforce support.

The program's design ensures sustainable growth through quarterly reporting requirements and strict eligibility criteria, making it a practical choice for companies seeking to expand their operations in Oklahoma's rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Oklahoma's digital landscape is transforming through a massive $1.3 billion state and federal investment in broadband infrastructure.

The Oklahoma Broadband Office is leading this revolution, having already awarded over $500 million in connectivity grants and securing an additional $750 million in Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment funding.

The initiative has positioned Oklahoma as the fourth-ranked state nationwide in reducing underserved broadband areas, with projects active in 57 of 77 counties.

In 2024 alone, approximately 70,000 homes and businesses gained high-speed internet access, marking a significant milestone in digital inclusion.

The impact is particularly noticeable in rural communities, where recent funding of $158 million is connecting 28,000 locations across 28 counties.

Major providers like AT&T have invested nearly $1.5 billion in network infrastructure from 2019 to 2023, expanding fiber networks in cities like Lawton and Jenks.

The initiative addresses practical challenges, including permitting processes, environmental concerns, and workforce development, with partnerships forming between the state and educational institutions to train needed technicians.

This comprehensive approach ensures that Oklahoma's connectivity infrastructure not only meets current demands but positions the state for future technological growth, creating a foundation for innovation and economic development.

The project's success is measured not just in numbers but in real impact, providing essential digital access for remote work, education, and community development across the state.

The University of Oklahoma is transforming STEM education through innovative programs and partnerships in 2025. OU's K-12 outreach initiatives actively engage faculty and students in promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math across Oklahoma schools.

The university's GEAR UP program, operated through the K20 Center, impacts over 5,000 students and families, offering comprehensive support through career exploration activities, campus visits, and professional development opportunities.

This summer, students can participate in specialized STEM academies at OU, including programs like The Human Water Cycle and innovative engineering workshops, all offered at no cost to participants.

The initiative has expanded to include hands-on experience in emerging fields such as drone technology, cryptography, and renewable energy. Through strategic partnerships with industry leaders, OU provides students with real-world applications of STEM concepts, preparing them for future careers.

The program's success is evident in its measurable outcomes: improved academic performance in STEM subjects, increased college enrollment rates, and stronger connections between education and industry needs.

Students gain access to state-of-the-art facilities, participate in research projects, and receive mentoring from experienced professionals. The university's commitment to STEM education extends beyond the classroom through career cafés, virtual expos, and College2Career forums, creating a comprehensive ecosystem that supports students from high school through college and into their careers. This initiative not only strengthens Oklahoma's educational landscape but also positions the state as an emerging hub for technological innovation and workforce development.

Oklahoma City's tech scene is crushing it in 2025. Over 120 new startups launched in 2023, contributing a massive $4.2 billion to the local GDP. The city has earned its spot as the 19th most up-and-coming tech market in North America, with the tech workforce expanding to 22,590 employees.

Major success stories include WeatherMatrix, which secured $18 million in funding, and Scissortail Security Solutions, acquired by Lockheed Martin for $120 million.

The city's largest tech employer, Paycom, now valued at over $18 billion, employs more than 4,000 people.

• Economic Growth: The startup ecosystem is thriving thanks to StitchCrew and Thunder Launch Pad, which offer 12-week programs for founders.
• Wage Increase: Local tech wages have increased by 17% over the past five years, making it an attractive destination for tech talent.

Companies like Dell Technologies, Boeing, and Nestlé Purina are actively expanding their workforce, offering competitive salaries ranging from $105K to $196K for various tech roles.

The city's growth is supported by a robust educational pipeline producing over 1,000 tech graduates annually, while the tech unemployment rate sits at just 1.7%.

With lower living costs compared to Silicon Valley and strong government support, Oklahoma City's tech scene isn't just growing—it's transforming the region into a legitimate tech powerhouse.

Oklahoma City's tech landscape is experiencing unprecedented growth, with infrastructure investments exceeding $1 billion in 2025.

The city's tech workforce has grown to 22,590 employees, making it the third-largest among emerging markets, with tech wages seeing a 17% increase over the past five years.

The sector now contributes $4.2 billion to the local GDP, driven by major developments including a $75 million Tech Hub focused on AI, cybersecurity, and biotech innovation.

This growth is supported by venture capital investments exceeding $500 million and the emergence of new sectors in healthcare tech and sustainable energy.

The impact of these investments is evident in the launch of the Oklahoma City Innovation District (OKCID), featuring a 50,000-square-foot Tech Innovation Hub.

The initiative is expected to generate 10,000 new tech jobs with an average salary of $67,000. Adding to this momentum, Google has committed $250,000 to enhance computing capabilities at the University of Oklahoma and launched a statewide initiative providing free AI training for over 10,000 Oklahomans.

The city's commitment to sustainability is demonstrated through an 87.8% waste diversion rate and significant federal support, including $2.4 million from the EPA for environmental tech initiatives.

Oklahoma City's tech landscape is evolving rapidly, with companies making substantial community impacts through innovative engagement initiatives. PEC's expansion of community engagement into the OKC market demonstrates this trend, focusing on projects that deliver essential infrastructure and educational facilities.

The tech sector now employs over 22,590 professionals, with major players like PwC, Cox Enterprises, and Paycom leading workforce development through comprehensive training programs and innovative work environments.

These companies have invested over $1 billion in infrastructure and development, showing their commitment to local growth. Tech firms are also prioritizing sustainability and social impact, with companies like Cox Enterprises achieving an 87.8% waste diversion rate and establishing significant investment funds for local startups.

The impact extends beyond business metrics, as demonstrated by Boeing's community engagement initiatives, which contributed $48.5 million to STEM education and awarded 423 grants for workforce development in 2023.

The city's tech companies are actively addressing the digital divide through mentorship programs, community service projects, and educational initiatives, creating pathways for underrepresented groups to enter the tech workforce.

This comprehensive approach to community development has contributed $4.2 billion to the local economy, establishing Oklahoma City as a vibrant tech hub focused on innovation, career growth, and social responsibility.

The combination of competitive salaries, supportive work environments, and commitment to community development makes Oklahoma City an increasingly attractive destination for tech professionals and companies alike.

Oklahoma City's tech ecosystem is experiencing unprecedented growth in 2025, with 22,590 tech employees now making up the third-largest workforce among emerging markets.

The sector's economic impact is substantial, contributing $4.2 billion to local GDP, with tech wages showing a 17% increase over the past five years. A major catalyst for this growth has been the launch of the Oklahoma Biotech Innovation Cluster, which received $35 million in federal funding to enhance the city's bioscience industry and double clinical trial capacity.

This investment has created a ripple effect across the tech landscape, attracting both established companies and startups.

The development of a new $75 million Tech Hub focusing on AI, cybersecurity, and biotech innovation marks a significant milestone in the city's tech evolution.

The facility is projected to generate 10,000 new tech jobs with an average salary of $67,000. Venture capital investments have surged past $500 million, supporting over 120 startups launched since 2020, resulting in a 25% tech job growth rate.

The synergy between education and industry is particularly noteworthy, with Google providing a $250,000 gift to enhance computing capabilities at the University of Oklahoma and offering free AI training to over 10,000 Oklahomans.

The tech sector's momentum is further strengthened by sustainability initiatives, with over $1 billion invested in infrastructure improvements.

This commitment to sustainable technology, combined with a strategic focus on AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, positions Oklahoma City as a rising force in North America's tech landscape, currently ranking 19th among up-and-coming tech markets.

The collaboration between industry and education continues to yield results, with tech graduates from local universities achieving a 90% job placement rate, ensuring a steady pipeline of talent for the growing sector.

Oklahoma City's emergence as a tech hub brings both challenges and opportunities, as highlighted in recent industry reports.

With 22,590 tech employees and the third-largest workforce among emerging markets, the city faces the task of sustaining this growth while addressing key infrastructure needs.

While tech wages have increased by 17% over the past five years, current market analysis shows a significant demand-supply gap, particularly in cloud computing and cybersecurity roles, with over 4,000 unfilled positions statewide.

The city's venture capital scene has shown promising growth, with investments exceeding $500 million, though this still lags behind established tech hubs. However, major developments like the $75 million Tech Hub focusing on AI, cybersecurity, and biotech innovation signal strong institutional support.

Oklahoma's Innovation Rush is further evidenced by significant growth in bioscience, with industry employment up 25% and R&D activity doubling since 2001.

• AI training expansion: Free AI training initiatives have reached 10,000 Oklahomans.
• CareerTech offerings: The presence of 29 CareerTech centers provides 90+ tech specialties.
• Job placement success: A 90% job placement rate exemplifies a robust ecosystem for talent development.

Looking ahead, the city's rank as the 19th most up-and-coming tech market in North America, coupled with strategic initiatives in sustainable technology and healthcare innovation, positions Oklahoma City for continued growth in the tech sector.

Oklahoma City has established itself as North America's 19th most promising tech market, with a tech workforce of 22,590 employees and wages increasing 17% over five years.

The city's contribution to the local GDP has reached $4.2 billion, driven by over 120 startups launched since 2020 and a 25% growth in tech jobs.

• Major developments include a $75 million Tech Hub focusing on AI, cybersecurity, and biotech innovation, with venture capital investments exceeding $500 million.
• The University of Oklahoma's partnership with Google, featuring a $250,000 investment and free AI training for 10,000 Oklahomans, demonstrates the city's commitment to tech education.
• Notable success stories include WeatherMatrix's $18 million funding round and Scissortail Security Solutions' $120 million acquisition by Lockheed Martin.

The Oklahoma City Innovation District's 50,000-square-foot Tech Innovation Hub is expected to generate 10,000 new tech jobs with an average salary of $67,000.

CareerTech Centers	Tech Specialties	Job Placement Rate
29	90+	90%

With 29 CareerTech centers offering over 90 tech specialties and a 90% job placement rate for tech graduates, Oklahoma City is positioned to maintain its growth trajectory in the tech sector.

The combination of affordable living costs, strong educational partnerships, and substantial infrastructure investments has created a sustainable ecosystem for continued innovation and economic expansion.