Why Chicago?
Economic Overview
Chicago offers an expansive international network boasting a $634 billion economy, and for the sixth year in a row, leads the U.S. in foreign direct investment according to the 2018 IBM Global Location Trends report. Ranked in the top 10 for most competitive cities for business in the world.
BUSINESS CLIMATE
#1 U.S. metro for corporate relocations & expansions for 6 consecutive years
#1 U.S. metro for foreign direct investment projects for 6 consecutive years
#1 most diversified economy in the U.S.
#1 best connected aviation system in the U.S. and #2 best connected globally – OAG
#1 U.S. Top Tech Spot of the Future – Modis 2017 Survey
Top 5 innovation & tech hub in the United States – KPMG
Top 10 global city in 2018 – AT Kearney
400 major corporate HQs with 1,000+ employees
Record low citywide unemployment, at 4.0% in December 2018 – Bureau of Labor Statistics
10% rise in median household income since 2011, well above national median household income - ACS
TALENT PIPELINE
37.5% of residents have a bachelor’s or higher degree, up from 28.2% in 2011, and far above the 31% national average. - ACS
119,000 new graduates annually from 136 colleges & universities in Chicago
500,000 current university students, 3rd most in the U.S. – CityLab
Top Schools for business, technology, engineering, and design, including two of the of nation’s top six business schools: University of Chicago and Northwestern. – US News
Two national laboratories: Argonne and Fermi Accelerator
World #1 University-backed incubator, 1871 Inc. – UBI Global
CPS is home to 56 IB schools (22 high schools and 34 elementary schools) serving more than 16,000 students.
Source: World Business Chicago
The accreditation "La French Tech" was awarded to Chicago for its innovative and entrepreneurial ecosystem. Recognized as a powerhouse for technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship, Chicago is now a part of a global network of 100+ cities and countries around the world!
La French Tech is a unique movement bringing together startups, investors, policymakers and community builders. La French Tech's mission is to make France one of the greatest places in the world to launch and grow global companies that make sense for our future.