This Week's Latest Tech News in Winston Salem, NC - Sunday April 20th 2025 Edition

Winston-Salem's tech ecosystem is experiencing remarkable growth, with over 170 companies now spanning 2 million square feet in the Innovation Quarter, generating a substantial $1.66 billion economic impact and supporting 8,300 jobs.

The surge is particularly evident in the Winston Starts accelerator program, which has become a catalyst for startup success, helping entrepreneurs scale their ventures through expert mentorship and state-of-the-art facilities.

Tech salaries have reached an impressive average of $118,933, while job opportunities have surged by 52% since last year. The city's commitment to diversity is reflected in its ranking as the #2 city for women in tech, complemented by strategic investments in education through partnerships with Forsyth Tech and Wake Forest University.

The Innovation Quarter continues to expand with an additional 1 million square feet of clinical, office, and lab space, alongside 15 acres of urban green space. Investment in the sector remains robust, with $348 million secured for approximately 70 new startups this year alone.

Local initiatives focus on digital inclusion and workforce development, supported by a $2 million allocation for digital skills training. This transformation positions Winston-Salem as a leading tech hub in the Southeast, attracting talent and investment while maintaining its commitment to sustainable growth.

In a groundbreaking move, the Winston-Salem Education Foundation has partnered with local tech leaders to launch an innovative robotics program across city schools.

The initiative aligns with Winston-Salem's remarkable tech growth, where the Innovation Quarter now hosts over 170 companies and generates a $1.66 billion economic impact.

Students will participate in VEX Robotics competitions, building and programming robots for exciting challenges that develop critical thinking and engineering skills.

• Educational transformation: The program is part of a larger change in Winston-Salem education, with tech job opportunities surging by 52%, and average salaries reaching $118,933.
• Certain learning outcomes: Early results show participating students demonstrate improved academic performance and increased interest in STEM careers.
• Encouraging inclusion: The program emphasizes inclusion, reflecting the city's status as the #2 ranked location for women in tech.
• Support for growth: Local businesses recognize the potential of the initiative to create a skilled workforce pipeline for the region's tech ecosystem.

Local institutions like Forsyth Tech are leading this charge with 66 certificate and 26 diploma programs aligned with industry needs.

The initiative connects directly to Camp Invention's STEM programs, offering hands-on experiences that build persistence and creative problem-solving abilities.

“With the digital economy rapidly evolving, this robotics program represents a crucial step in preparing Winston-Salem's youth for future opportunities in technology and innovation.”

This strategic investment in education supports Winston-Salem's vision as a tech hub, with the Innovation Quarter's expansion including an additional 1 million square feet of space for clinical, office, and lab facilities.

Winston-Salem's tech ecosystem is experiencing remarkable growth as the Innovation Quarter emerges as a powerhouse for innovation and entrepreneurship.

The district now hosts over 170 companies across 2 million square feet of space, generating a substantial $1.66 billion economic impact and supporting more than 8,300 jobs.

The latest addition to this thriving hub is Charter Medical's Innovation Hub, featuring state-of-the-art lab spaces for biotech research and development.

The facility includes advanced single-use technology studies, specialized freezing and transportation labs, and comprehensive support for critical therapy development.

The integration of Winston Starts, a non-profit startup accelerator, provides entrepreneurs with up to 42 months of runway, customized mentorship, and access to modern lab spaces through Sparq Labs.

This strategic partnership has already helped raise $134.7 million in capital for 81 companies, with 33 currently in residence.

The tech community continues to expand with regular workshops, networking events, and collaborative opportunities, supported by a network of over 100 expert mentors.

Local tech salaries average $118,933, making Winston-Salem increasingly attractive to tech talent. The district's growth includes green spaces, publicly accessible greenways, and residential units, creating a complete live-work-play environment that's transforming the city into a leading innovation destination.

Wake Forest University's Center for Artificial Intelligence Research is revolutionizing the tech landscape in Winston-Salem through multiple breakthrough initiatives.

Under the leadership of Dr. Metin Nafi Gurcan, the center serves as a trusted partner in advancing AI applications in medicine and healthcare. Building on this momentum, the university recently secured a $3.4 million NIH grant to combat medical misinformation, particularly focusing on COVID-19 vaccinations and unproven stem-cell therapies.

This research aims to enhance health literacy and patient outcomes through AI-driven solutions. The center's impact extends beyond healthcare, with Assistant Professor Minghan Chen receiving a $500,000 NSF CAREER Award to develop AI techniques for understanding Alzheimer's disease progression.

Key initiatives by Wake Forest University's AI research:

• Healthcare Innovations: Wake Forest focuses on developing personalized medicine solutions, enhancing patient outcomes.
• Environmental Applications: AI is used for climate change analysis, promoting sustainable solutions.
• Business Intelligence: Data-driven decision-making is improved through AI, providing valuable insights.
• Advanced Cybersecurity: AI measures are implemented to safeguard against cyber threats.

The initiative includes comprehensive educational programs, workshops, and summer internships supported by the National Library of Medicine.

Through partnerships with Duke University and UNC-Chapel Hill, the center is addressing critical health equity challenges, particularly in maternal mortality risks among African American women.

Wake Forest's AI research focuses on four key areas: healthcare innovations for personalized medicine, environmental applications for climate change analysis, business intelligence for data-driven decision-making, and advanced cybersecurity measures.

The university's commitment to AI development has attracted collaboration opportunities with industry leaders, fostering an environment where cutting-edge research translates into practical applications.

This strategic investment in AI research positions Wake Forest as a pivotal force in technological advancement, contributing significantly to Winston-Salem's growing reputation as a hub for innovation and scientific discovery.

The Digital Health Conference in Winston-Salem this November is shaping up to be a game-changer for healthcare tech.

Building on the success of industry-leading events like ViVE 2025 and HIMSS, this conference tackles crucial themes in healthcare innovation.

The three-day event features keynotes from Dr. Emily Chen on AI in patient care and David Moore on IoT integration for chronic illness monitoring. Following the format of successful Reuters Digital Health conferences, each day focuses on specific themes: Telemedicine Advances, Data Security in Healthcare, and Patient-Centered AI Applications.

The conference expects to draw over 1,500 healthcare professionals, tech developers, and industry leaders, creating an epic networking space for anyone serious about healthcare innovation.

Recent data shows 78% of healthcare providers view tech integration as crucial, making this event particularly relevant. Participants can dive into hands-on workshops exploring emerging digital tools, engage in panel discussions about AI implementation, and connect with others who are reshaping healthcare delivery.

The conference aims to bridge the gap between traditional healthcare practices and cutting-edge technology, offering practical solutions for common challenges in patient care.

Whether you're a medical pro, tech developer, or just curious about where healthcare is heading, this conference is your chance to get ahead of the curve and be part of the conversation shaping the future of healthcare.

Winston-Salem's startup ecosystem is absolutely crushing it in 2025, with Winston Starts helping entrepreneurs scale their businesses through expert mentorship and state-of-the-art resources.

The city's Innovation Quarter is now home to over 170 companies across 2 million square feet, creating an economic impact of $1.66 billion and supporting 8,300 jobs.

Leading the pack is mPATH Health, which recently secured $3 million in funding to revolutionize cancer screening through their cloud-based platform.

Not far behind is Fluree, which just landed a $10 million investment for their groundbreaking work in blockchain and semantic graph technologies. Winston-Salem's startup scene has climbed to rank #387 globally, with standouts like Javara Research and F5 Sports leading the charge.

The average tech salary here is hitting $118,933, and with the city ranked #2 for women in tech, it's clear that Winston-Salem is becoming a legit tech hub. Recent successes include Salem Cyber's 40% team expansion and plans to add 200 new jobs, while Brinter Inc is doing mind-blowing work with 3D bioprinting, even collaborating with the International Space Station.

The startup vibe is electric, with Winston Starts supporting 81 companies that have collectively raised $134.7 million in capital. Entrepreneurs can stretch their dollar way further here than in traditional tech hubs like New York or San Francisco, while still being part of a tight-knit, supportive community that's seriously changing the game.

Winston-Salem's tech landscape is experiencing remarkable growth in 2025, with tech job growth up 18% since 2023 and average salaries reaching $118,933.

The Innovation Quarter, spanning 2 million square feet of tech innovation space, has become a catalyst for this expansion, housing major players like Inmar Intelligence and Novant Health.

According to North Carolina's IT Job Trends Dashboard, the demand is particularly high for software developers, data scientists, and computer support specialists, with thousands of active job postings across these categories.

The local job market's resilience is evident in recent employment data showing a steady 1.7% growth in professional services.

The tech sector offers diverse opportunities, from entry-level positions starting at $71,700 to experienced roles commanding $86,300 annually. Educational pathways through Forsyth Tech and Winston-Salem State University provide specialized programs in cybersecurity, web technologies, and data analytics, creating a steady pipeline of qualified professionals.

The city's lower cost of living compared to major tech hubs like Raleigh, combined with the availability of remote work options (42% of current tech positions), makes Winston-Salem an attractive destination for tech professionals.

Key skills in demand include Python, Java, SQL, and cloud computing, reflecting the industry's evolving needs. The presence of healthcare IT opportunities and emerging fields like 3D bioprinting adds another layer of diversity to the local tech ecosystem, promising sustainable growth for years to come.

Winston-Salem's tech sector is revolutionizing its approach to sustainability in 2025, with the Innovation Quarter leading 170 companies in green initiatives.

Local tech firms are integrating sustainable practices, targeting a collective goal of 100% renewable energy by 2050. The city's latest municipal building installation, featuring a 70-kilowatt solar system, has already offset 6% of energy use, setting a benchmark for corporate adoption.

The Solarize the Triad campaign has accelerated this transition by offering competitive pricing for solar installations across tech campuses.

Companies are showing impressive results through their environmental programs.

Tech companies are prioritizing efficiency and waste heat management in their data centers, which typically consume 1-2% of global energy.

The sustainability push has attracted new investment, with Winston-Salem securing $348 million for 70 new startups this year, many focused on green tech solutions.

Local firms are following the example of industry leaders by implementing zero-waste policies and energy-efficient operations.

The impact extends beyond individual companies to citywide initiatives.

Community-led sustainability programs are fostering collaboration between tech companies and educational institutions, driving innovation in environmental practices.

These efforts have positioned Winston-Salem as a model for sustainable tech development, with measurable improvements in energy efficiency and waste reduction.

The city's environmental leadership program now recognizes exceptional projects in sustainability, encouraging continued innovation in green technology solutions.

Winston-Salem continues to make remarkable progress in bridging the digital divide through coordinated community efforts. WinstonNet, operating over 25 computer labs across the city, has been at the forefront of digital inclusion for more than two decades, providing essential computer access and training to residents.

The Innovation Quarter's expansion has generated a $1.66 billion economic impact and supports over 8,300 jobs, while tech job opportunities have increased by 52% with average salaries reaching $118,933.

• Partnerships with educational institutions: Through partnerships with educational institutions, including Forsyth Technical Community College's 66 certificate and 26 diploma programs, residents are gaining valuable digital skills aligned with industry needs.
• Commitment to digital equity: The city's commitment to digital equity is further demonstrated by a $31 million investment in high-speed internet infrastructure, ensuring connections exceeding 100 Mbps for both downloads and uploads.
• Funding for digital initiatives: Local government has allocated $2 million specifically for digital skills training and community access initiatives, while the Digital Bridges Forsyth program, led by WinstonNet, continues to expand its reach.

These efforts have contributed to Winston-Salem's ranking as the #2 city for women in tech, showcasing the success of its inclusive digital transformation strategy.

Winston-Salem's cybersecurity education scene is totally leveling up in 2025! WSSU just landed a massive $2.7 million investment from Cisco for cybersecurity services and software, which is seriously upgrading their game.

The local job market's looking super promising too - industry projections show a 28% workforce growth by 2026, with entry-level salaries ranging from $68,500 to $88,000.

• Forsyth Tech's Success: Forsyth Tech's cybersecurity training program is crushing it with a 40% enrollment bump and an 85% job placement rate within six months of graduation.
• Advanced Education at Carolina University: Both Forsyth Tech and Carolina University are offering cutting-edge programs, with Forsyth focusing on their Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology - Cyber Security, and Carolina University bringing a Master's program to the table.
• Hiring Trends: The whole scene is super dynamic, with local companies actively hiring - 72% of them are looking to expand their cybersecurity teams.
• Hands-on Experience Benefits: Students are getting access to real-world training in cloud security, AI-driven security tools, and incident response - exactly what employers are hunting for right now.

What's really cool is how these schools are partnering with tech giants and offering hands-on experience through certification programs like CCNA, which can boost graduates' earning potential by up to $30K. With the Innovation Quarter supporting over 8,300 jobs and making a $1.66 billion economic impact, Winston-Salem is definitely becoming a major player in the cybersecurity game.

Winston-Salem's tech scene is experiencing unprecedented growth in 2025, with the Innovation Quarter now hosting over 170 companies across 2 million square feet.

The district has generated a $1.66 billion economic impact and supports more than 8,300 jobs, with tech positions averaging $118,933 in salary. This momentum is further amplified by new accelerator programs like Velocity Creative and Flywheel New Ventures, which are providing crucial support for early-stage companies.

The city has secured $348 million in funding for approximately 70 new startups this year, while maintaining its position as the #2 city for women in tech. Educational institutions are stepping up to meet industry demands, with Forsyth Technical Community College offering specialized programs aligned with local industry needs.

• Innovation Quarter growth: The district now hosts over 170 companies spread across 2 million square feet.
• Economic impact: The area generates $1.66 billion and supports more than 8,300 jobs, with tech positions averaging $118,933 in salary.
• Accelerator programs: Velocity Creative and Flywheel New Ventures are supporting early-stage companies, enhancing local startup ecosystems.
• Funding secured: Approximately 70 new startups have received $348 million, further bolstering the tech landscape.
• Educational response: Institutions are offering specialized programs to meet industry demands.

The Innovation Quarter continues to expand with an additional 1 million square feet of clinical, office, and lab space, alongside 15 acres of urban green space.

This growth is complemented by infrastructure improvements including trail extensions and enhanced street lighting. Looking ahead, the city's 2030 Vision Plan emphasizes digital equity through a $2 million allocation for skills training, positioning Winston-Salem as a leading tech hub in North Carolina.

Winston-Salem's tech scene is buzzing this April with events that make it easy to plug into our growing tech community. The tech community offers incredible opportunities for both career growth and making genuine connections.

At the Forsyth Tech Business & Information Technology Career Fair on April 2nd, you can explore tech careers, internships, and even qualify for sign-on bonuses.

The Triad Developer Conference on April 19-20 features keynote speaker Michael Miller and hands-on workshops perfect for skill-building.

The Winston-Salem tech calendar is packed with inclusive events for everyone from beginners to pros.

Forsyth Tech's community programs offer affordable courses in everything from coding to cybersecurity.

The Women in Tech - NC Triad Chapter is hosting their annual summit with mentorship programs and skill-building workshops. Plus, the NC Data Science and Business Analytics Meetup happens every first Wednesday, covering hot topics like AI and quantum computing.

Want to make an impact? Join the Tech4Good Coalition's digital literacy workshops or contribute to open-source projects through the W-S Open Source Hub. The 2025 NC HBCU Smart Cities Pitch Competition on April 25th showcases innovative solutions for urban challenges. Regular events at venues like Hygge Coworking and the Innovation Quarter create spaces for collaboration and networking. Whether you're a student, professional, or just tech-curious, there's a place for you in Winston-Salem's tech community. Don't just watch from the sidelines - jump in and be part of shaping our city's tech future!