This Week's Latest Tech News in Chattanooga, TN - Sunday April 6th 2025 Edition

Chattanooga continues its remarkable evolution as a tech hub in 2025, with the tech sector now valued at $1.2 billion, marking a 25% increase from previous years.

The city's transformation is anchored by "The Gig," offering pioneering 10-gigabit internet speeds citywide through EPB. Local success stories like WorkHound, FreightWaves, and Branch Technology showcase the thriving startup ecosystem, supported by organizations like CO.LAB and the INCubator.

The tech community is further strengthened by the Hamilton County Business Development Center, which has helped graduate over 30 companies that raised $284 million and created over 2,000 jobs.

Major initiatives include a new $1.8 million Business Resource Center opening in October 2025, providing vital support for entrepreneurs. The city experiences a 15% annual tech job growth, outpacing tech hubs like San Francisco and New York.

With over 75 tech events scheduled this year and an anticipated 18% industry growth by year-end, Chattanooga's commitment to innovation extends across cloud computing, AI, and cybersecurity sectors, solidifying its position as an emerging tech leader.

EPB's game-changing internet service in Chattanooga is seriously next-level in 2025. EPB's Fi-Speed Internet now delivers mind-blowing speeds up to 25 Gigabits, making it the world's fastest community-wide internet service.

The network covers a massive 600-square-mile area, serving 180,000 customers with zero data caps or contracts. What's really cool is that EPB's fiber infrastructure has transformed Chattanooga into a legit smart city, with over 1,400 smart switches that have cut power outages by 50%.

The economic impact is huge - the fiber network generated $2.69 billion in its first decade and helped create or keep 9,516 jobs in Hamilton County.

EPB dominates the market with a 70% share, offering residential packages from 300 Mbps at $57.99 to 25 Gbps at $1,500 monthly. They're not just stopping at fast internet - they've launched America's first commercial quantum network and partnered with the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga to create the country's largest smart city test bed.

The network includes cutting-edge tech like cameras, LiDAR sensors, and weather detectors to improve everything from traffic flow to public safety. EPB's fiber optic revolution has positioned Chattanooga as a major tech hub, attracting research funding and innovative businesses while providing residents with some of the most advanced internet infrastructure in the world.

Erlanger Health System's telehealth program is revolutionizing healthcare access in Tennessee and neighboring states in 2025. According to recent data, the program facilitated over 11,000 virtual interactions in the 2024 fiscal year, saving patients approximately 290,000 miles in travel—equivalent to circling the Earth 11 times.

The initiative extends beyond basic care, with Erlanger Express Care offering comprehensive telehealth services across Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee.

Their platform includes specialized services like teleneurology for stroke care, outpatient telemedicine for routine check-ups, and tele-neonatology for newborn care.

A significant development is the recent partnership with DeKalb Regional Medical Center, which brings specialized stroke diagnosis and treatment to the Fort Payne region.

This collaboration demonstrates Erlanger's commitment to expanding critical care access in rural areas, where timely medical intervention can be challenging. The system's tiered response plan addresses inpatient, outpatient, and telemedicine needs, ensuring all patients receive appropriate care levels.

Operating seven days a week with extended evening hours, the platform provides a convenient alternative to emergency room visits for non-life-threatening conditions.

As we approach April 2025, Erlanger continues to strengthen its virtual care infrastructure, focusing on making healthcare more accessible and efficient for communities across the southeastern United States.

FreightWaves, a Chattanooga-based supply chain data powerhouse, has secured $16 million in funding led by Triangle Peak Partners to expand its sustainability platform.

The company, which has raised a total of $91.5M across eight funding rounds, is revolutionizing how the freight industry tackles carbon emissions. Their newest innovation, the FreightWaves Carbon Intelligence (FCI) platform, built on their SONAR technology, enables supply chain managers to benchmark, analyze, and forecast Scope 3 emissions.

CEO John Garcia emphasizes the industry's urgent need for carbon emission transparency and mitigation solutions. The company's growth has been impressive, with annual recurring revenue increasing by 80% in Q1 2021, while their media business grew by 130%.

• Impressive Revenue Growth: FreightWaves' growth is reflected in their expanding user base, with over 4.5 million unique visitors to their website.
• Engagement Metrics: An average engagement time exceeding 3 minutes per visit has been achieved, showing strong user interest.
• Global Reach: The platform now serves as a comprehensive solution for companies seeking to evaluate different transportation modes to reduce their carbon footprint.

The funding will accelerate product development and commercial expansion of their carbon intelligence capabilities, positioning Chattanooga at the forefront of sustainable logistics technology.

This investment not only strengthens FreightWaves' market position but also demonstrates the growing importance of environmental considerations in the freight industry, as companies increasingly

prioritize sustainability in their supply chain operations.

Chattanooga's tech scene is heating up in 2025 with multiple high-impact conferences reshaping the city's digital landscape. Scenic City Summit, happening June 19-21 at the Chattanooga Convention Center, leads the pack with its focus on software development and automation excellence.

The event calendar kicks off with Gig City Elixir on May 8-10 at the Edney Innovation Center, offering specialized tracks for both beginners and Elixir pros.

Adding to the tech momentum, Gig City Goes Quantum initiative positions Chattanooga at the forefront of quantum computing, providing educational resources from 5th grade through university level.

This year's conference lineup emphasizes hands-on learning through interactive workshops, expert-led sessions, and networking opportunities.

Topics range from software development best practices and cloud technologies to emerging quantum computing applications. The events are designed to accommodate various skill levels, from coding newcomers to seasoned developers, reflecting Chattanooga's commitment to tech education and workforce development.

The convergence of these tech events marks a significant milestone in Chattanooga's evolution as a tech hub.

Conference organizers expect over 2,000 participants across all events, bringing together developers, automation specialists, and IT professionals from across the Southeast.

With a focus on practical skills and emerging technologies, these conferences are set to catalyze innovation and collaboration in the local tech ecosystem. The accessibility of these events to students and professionals alike underscores Chattanooga's dedication to fostering a diverse and skilled tech workforce.

The collaboration between UTC and IBM in 2025 marks a transformative shift in educational technology, aligning with IBM's increased AI investment initiatives across educational institutions.

The partnership leverages IBM's watsonx platform and aims to create AI-driven education programs that prepare students for the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

According to recent data, this initiative includes the launch of a new AI Research Lab, which will serve as a hub for practical AI application and innovation.

The timing is strategic, as industry forecasts predict a critical need for safe, integrated AI strategies across sectors by 2025.

The program structure focuses on three key areas:

• Curriculum development: Integrating AI fundamentals and machine learning.
• Comprehensive faculty training: Delivered through IBM-led workshops.
• Direct industry connections: Providing internship opportunities.

Students will gain hands-on experience with real-world AI applications, while faculty members will receive advanced training through IBM's AI Change Agent program, which is being developed specifically for educational institutions.

Lisa Williams's involvement underscores the partnership's aim to address the projected 21% growth in AI-related roles over the next decade, with particular emphasis on practical skills development.

UTC's commitment to this initiative positions it as a pioneer in tech education, preparing graduates for careers in an AI-driven economy where organizations are increasingly focused on moving AI projects from experimental phases to full production deployment.

Chattanooga is transforming into a clean energy powerhouse, with Seven States Power Corporation securing a $439M investment for renewable power solutions in 2025.

This funding enables the construction of a utility-scale solar plant adding over 250MW of energy to the Tennessee Valley. The city's commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated through their innovative waste-to-energy program at Moccasin Bend, converting wastewater into renewable energy.

Adding to this momentum, Chattanooga's Climate Action Plan sets ambitious targets for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, backed by concrete initiatives including building efficiency improvements and fleet electrification.

The Electric Power Board (EPB) is leading smart grid development while exploring new renewable energy storage solutions, positioning Chattanooga at the forefront of sustainable technology.

• Investment in Advanced Battery Technology: Recent developments include a $754M expansion in synthetic graphite production for advanced battery technology, creating 500 new jobs and enhancing Chattanooga's role in clean energy manufacturing.
• Incentives for Renewable Energy Projects: Local government initiatives continue attracting investment, with tax benefits exceeding $54M over 15 years for renewable energy projects.
• Comprehensive Approach to Renewable Energy Development: This strategy, combining infrastructure improvements, innovative technology, and strategic planning, establishes Chattanooga as a model for sustainable urban development while driving economic growth through clean energy initiatives.

In an exciting development for Chattanooga's tourism landscape, multiple innovative apps are transforming how visitors experience the Scenic City in 2025. Augmented reality features are now enhancing tourist experiences, offering interactive navigation and immersive views of local attractions.

The city's commitment to digital innovation is evident with the launch of MyChattConnect, providing instant access to community resources and events across Chattanooga's 20 community centers.

Additionally, the Walnut Street Bridge app offers real-time updates on navigation and exclusive deals from North Shore businesses.

These digital tools are particularly significant as Hamilton County leads Tennessee in tourism growth, with travel spending reaching $1.7 billion in recent reports.

The apps feature:

• Personalized itinerary planning: Apps allow tourists to customize their travel plans efficiently and conveniently.
• Automated bookings: Visitors can book local attractions, restaurants, and events with just a few clicks.
• Curated trails: Tourists can explore themed pathways that connect them with cultural sites and local highlights.

Local businesses are seeing increased engagement, with the North Shore Merchants Collective participating in special promotions through these platforms.

The integration of social media features allows tourists to share their experiences instantly, while real-time updates and push notifications keep visitors informed about events and activities.

These technological advancements are positioning Chattanooga as a forward-thinking destination where digital innovation meets Southern hospitality, creating an enhanced experience for the modern traveler while driving economic growth in the tourism sector.

Chattanooga's evolution as a testbed for autonomous vehicle technology is gaining momentum in 2025, backed by a $3.2 million Department of Energy grant supporting AI-driven neighborhood mobility systems.

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) has unveiled their first autonomous research vehicle, which operates along the MLK Smart Corridor and downtown areas, collecting real-time data on interactions between vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.

A recent $2 million SMART grant is funding the deployment of Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) technology across high-risk areas, making Chattanooga the only Tennessee city to receive this federal support in 2025.

• City's infrastructure upgrades: The city's infrastructure upgrades include nearly 100 smart intersections equipped with gigabit-speed fiber broadband, LiDAR sensors, and advanced monitoring systems.
• Cost and data: Each intersection, costing between $20,000 and $25,000, collects data for real-time traffic predictions through a digital twin simulation.
• Innovative AI system: An innovative AI system developed by Vanderbilt researchers is revolutionizing paratransit services, reducing operational costs and improving efficiency by generating route manifests in just one minute compared to the previous two-week manual process.

This comprehensive approach to autonomous vehicle testing and smart city development leverages Chattanooga's existing gigabit-speed fiber network, which spans 9,000 miles and supports over 200,000 smart devices.

The integration of these technologies aims to achieve zero traffic fatalities while creating a more efficient, sustainable urban transportation system. Industry collaborations with partners including ITS America, Audi, Qualcomm, and HARMAN are helping position Chattanooga as a pioneer in connected mobility solutions.

In April 2025, Chattanooga's coworking landscape expanded with several innovative spaces designed for tech entrepreneurs. Society of Work, located in the Edney Building, leads the pack with gigabit internet and flexible workspace options starting from $85/month.

The space features essential amenities including private phone booths, conference rooms, and business address services. Adjacent to this, Tallan Financial Center offers 24/7 security and access to a global network, while the newly announced Business Resource Center on East Martin Luther King Boulevard promises comprehensive support for local entrepreneurs when it opens in October 2025.

• Innovative coworking spaces: These spaces collectively create a robust ecosystem for tech innovation, with features ranging from dedicated podcast rooms to EV charging stations.
• Community building focus: The facilities emphasize community building through regular networking events, professional development workshops, and collaborative opportunities.
• Flexible member options: Most spaces offer flexible membership options, from day passes to private offices, accommodating various team sizes and budgets.
• Impact on local growth: According to recent data, these coworking environments have contributed to a 22% enhancement in local startup ecosystem growth through increased networking opportunities and resource sharing.

With Chattanooga's reputation as a tech hub growing, these spaces provide the infrastructure needed for continued innovation and entrepreneurial success.

In 2025, Chattanooga stands at the forefront of robotics and automation, with investments reshaping its economic landscape. Venture capital funding in robotics projects has surged dramatically, with over $7 billion raised globally as of late 2024.

Leading this transformation locally are companies like Branch Technology, which secured $22 million in funding and demonstrates innovative applications of robotics in construction through their C-Fab technology.

The International Federation of Robotics reports that industrial robot installations have reached a record $16.5 billion globally, with key growth areas in manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics.

Chattanooga's robotics sector is particularly focused on sustainability and energy efficiency, with companies developing lightweight components and energy-saving technologies.

The city has become a hub for tech innovation, contributing over $1.2 billion to the local economy and creating thousands of tech jobs.

• Local startups are leveraging Robot-as-a-Service models to reduce capital investment barriers, making automation more accessible to smaller businesses.
• With the integration of AI and machine learning, these robotic systems are becoming more sophisticated, capable of handling complex tasks while addressing labor shortages in manufacturing and logistics.

The combination of strategic investments, academic partnerships, and innovative startups positions Chattanooga as an emerging leader in robotics and automation technology, promising continued growth and job creation in the coming years.

Chattanooga's tech scene in 2025 continues to evolve at an impressive pace, with over 4,500 IT jobs available and a cost of living index of 87.8 compared to the national average.

The city's Innovation District, centered around Miller Park, has become a hub for tech talent and entrepreneurship, hosting daily community events at The Edney Innovation Center.

Notable companies like Text Request have achieved remarkable growth, showing a 441% increase over three years, while FreightWaves has demonstrated a 231% expansion.

The tech ecosystem is projected to contribute over $1.2 billion to the local economy, with major players like Volkswagen investing $4.3 billion since 2008 and creating 5,500 jobs.

ChaTech's mission to foster innovation and collaboration has been instrumental in creating an inclusive and economically impactful environment.

The city's commitment to cutting-edge technology is evident in its smart city initiatives, including the MLK Smart Corridor project and the continued development of its renowned gigabit network infrastructure.

With average tech salaries exceeding $90,000 and a projected 15% increase in tech positions, Chattanooga is solidifying its position as a leading technology hub in the Southeast.