It’s no secret that tech entrepreneurs have traditionally been drawn to hubs like Silicon Valley and NYC due to the concentration of resources, networks and opportunities, which are both well-established and well-known to everyone in the tech world. These hubs offer access to a talented pool of engineers, designers and other tech professionals, as well as capital and investment opportunities critical for startup success. In addition, the vibrant tech communities in these areas provide a wealth of networking opportunities, mentorship and collaboration for startups.
However, recent events have dramatically changed the landscape for tech startups and have led to a shift away from traditional hubs. The pandemic accelerated the trend of remote work, making it easier for startups to hire talent from anywhere in the world and reducing the need for startups to be physically located in a technology hub. Additionally, lockdowns brought attention to the high cost of living in hubs like the Bay Area, leading many startups to consider alternative locations with lower costs and a better quality of life.
These changes have opened up new opportunities for startups and have made it easier for entrepreneurs to access the resources and networks they need to succeed from anywhere. This shift has also accelerated a leveling of the playing field for previously overlooked communities, proving to budding business owners they can, in fact, start and grow successful businesses in these areas. Though choosing a historically underinvested community may seem counterintuitive, it can actually offer a number of advantages for entrepreneurs looking to stand out from the crowd.
Just outside of our nation’s capital, Prince George’s County, Maryland, is one such community that has undergone significant transformation in recent years, making it a great place to start and grow a tech business. When compared to its neighboring counties in Northern Virginia, Prince George’s offers a unique and contrasting tech ecosystem for entrepreneurs and innovators. Northern Virginia, often referred to as “The Silicon Valley of the East,” has been known for decades for its thriving tech scene and strong data center presence, making it the obvious choice in the D.C. area when I set out to build a technology business in 2010.
