Fort Collins, October 4, 2025
News Summary
The technology sector in Northern Colorado has dramatically shifted from hardware-centric to being driven by artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and quantum technology. Major companies, such as Hewlett Packard Enterprise and Woodward Inc., are focusing on innovation to remain competitive. This change is supported by state and federal funding, including a recent grant for quantum computing research, reflecting a robust startup ecosystem and an inclination towards cloud-based operations which poses security challenges as well.
Fort Collins
Northern Colorado’s tech landscape accelerates as AI, cloud and quantum technologies reshape the regional economy
What happened: Northern Colorado’s technology sector has transformed from a hardware-focused industry into one driven by cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging quantum technology. Prominent regional and national companies are prioritizing innovation, businesses are migrating operations to the cloud, and public funding is supporting quantum research.
Key facts up front: Three decades ago, terms like “cloud” and “quantum computing” were not commonplace in tech discussions. In 1995, few companies had websites, and social media was just emerging through platforms like America Online and Prodigy. Artificial intelligence (AI) was still viewed as science fiction. Today, cloud computing, AI, and quantum technology are major economic drivers in Northern Colorado. Colorado received a $40.5 million federal grant in 2024 to establish itself as a global leader in quantum computing.
Supporting details: companies, market shifts and local infrastructure
Established firms with local ties and national reach have shifted strategies to remain competitive in the new environment. Prominent companies such as Hewlett Packard Enterprise, HP Inc., and Woodward Inc. are focusing on innovation to thrive in the current tech landscape. The technology sector’s shift from hardware to services, software, and AI reflects changing consumer needs.
Woodward’s evolution illustrates the regional industrial transition: Woodward, a manufacturing leader established in 1870, has evolved into a global entity focused on innovative control systems to minimize waste. HP’s history shows a similar pivot: HP has diversified from producing electronic test equipment to becoming a top personal computer manufacturer by 2007, despite a decline in printer sales. The introduction of HP’s “instant ink” program showcases how companies adapt to digitalization.
Business operations are increasingly cloud-based as software and infrastructure solutions gain traction. Businesses increasingly migrate their operations to the cloud as software and infrastructure solutions gain traction. At the same time, the rise of internet-of-things devices brings new security concerns that the market is expected to address.
Some firms that once headquartered in Northern Colorado have shifted operations while maintaining local manufacturing presence. Advanced Energy Industries moved its headquarters from Fort Collins to Denver but maintains a local manufacturing presence.
Startups, incubators and research support
Colorado’s startup ecosystem contributes to the region’s momentum. Colorado is recognized for its vibrant startup environment and high density of tech startups, aided by networks like the Colorado Innovation Network. Technology incubators like Fort Collins-based Innosphere and research efforts like the Colorado Energy Research Collaboratory are fostering innovation.
Analysts note that future technology growth in the region will be driven by AI and internet-of-things developments, which are expected to enhance operational efficiency and profitability across industries. Analysts highlight that future tech growth will stem from AI and the internet of things, enhancing efficiency and profit across industries.
Opportunities and challenges ahead
Adoption of AI and quantum computing presents opportunities for productivity gains and new products, but also raises workforce and security challenges. Companies will need to adapt to the expanding role of AI, creating demand for new educational curricula to cultivate necessary skills. The challenge for the future is to leverage advances in AI and quantum computing securely, supporting human creativity rather than replacing it.
Futuristic consumer concepts continue to evolve into practical innovations: while not yet realized, futuristic concepts like flying cars are being matched with innovations such as electric cars, smart devices, and advanced personal technology.
Background context
Technological vocabulary and business models have changed markedly over three decades. The mid-1990s environment differed greatly from today’s connected economy: in 1995, few companies had websites, and social media was nascent through platforms like America Online and Prodigy. Over time, firms pivoted away from purely hardware products toward software, services and recurring-revenue models. This broader shift underpins why regional companies emphasize cloud, AI and controls engineering today.
Federal and state-level investments are influencing research priorities. Colorado received a $40.5 million federal grant in 2024 to establish itself as a global leader in quantum computing, which will underpin local research and industry partnerships. The grant, combined with incubators and university-led research, is intended to accelerate quantum-related development and related workforce preparation.
FAQ
How has Northern Colorado’s technology sector changed over the past 30 years?
Which companies are important to the region’s tech ecosystem?
What trends are driving business decisions in the region?
Are there notable investments or grants supporting local technology?
What local organizations support startups and research?
How are legacy manufacturers adapting?
What are the main challenges ahead?
Key features at a glance
| Feature | Role / Status | Regional relevance |
|---|---|---|
| AI | Major economic driver; workforce and curriculum demand | Northern Colorado and statewide industry adaptation |
| Cloud computing | Platform for business migration and services | Businesses increasingly migrate their operations to the cloud |
| Quantum technology | Emerging research focus with federal funding | Colorado received a $40.5 million federal grant in 2024 to establish itself as a global leader in quantum computing |
| Internet-of-things | Growth area with new security concerns | The rise of internet-of-things devices brings new security concerns that the market is expected to address |
| Established companies | Shifting toward innovation, software, and services | Prominent companies such as Hewlett Packard Enterprise, HP Inc., and Woodward Inc. are focusing on innovation |
| Startups and incubation | Dense startup ecosystem and support networks | Colorado is recognized for its vibrant startup environment and high density of tech startups |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- BizWest: Union Pacific’s Big Boy Coming to Northern Colorado Next Week
- Wikipedia: Artificial Intelligence
- Greeley Tribune: Risewalk at Johnstown Hospital
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Quantum Computing
- Coloradoan: Colorado Tech Hub Elevate Quantum
- Google Search: Northern Colorado technology sector
- CBRE: Denver Climbs in Tech Markets
- Google News: Northern Colorado tech companies
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
DALLAS STAFF WRITER The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
