70 Major Companies in Chicago to Know

Check out this list of the top companies making Chicago a vibrant tech hub.

Written by Matthew Urwin
Image: Shutterstock
Image: Shutterstock
UPDATED BY
Abel Rodriguez | Sep 02, 2026
REVIEWED BY
Summary: Chicago’s tech ecosystem is thriving, with major players like Google, Morningstar and Caterpillar helping position the city as a hub for innovation. From food delivery to financial research, these companies are driving growth across industries and expanding Chicago’s global impact.

Chicago in and of itself is an innovative marvel to behold. Established on soggy land adjacent to Lake Michigan, the city underwent major architectural efforts to physically raise the urban area to its current height. Since its founding, Chicago continues to embody this spirit of ingenuity, having evolved into a tech hub that has branched out into various sectors. Fintech, healthtech, IT, and software are just a few specializations that the Windy City now includes in its ever-growing business ecosystem.

With companies and startups reshaping numerous industries, Chicago has firmly established itself as a major force within the global economy. We’ve put together a list of companies that have offices in Chicago and are lifting the city further into the upper echelons of the tech realm. 

Major Companies in Chicago to Know

  • Google
  • Salesforce
  • Cisco
  • Morningstar
  • Caterpillar

Related ResourcesFind Your Next Job on Built In Chicago

 

Top Companies in Chicago

Industry: Artificial Intelligence, Software, Consumer Technology

What they do: Google maintains a major office in Chicago’s Fulton Market neighborhood. In addition to its namesake search engine and smart devices, the company has been at the forefront of artificial intelligence developing frontier models and integrating agents and generative capabilities across its product ecosystem. Furthermore, enterprise clients deploy Google’s models through the Gemini Enterprise Agent Platform to build and run custom autonomous agents using proprietary company data.

 

Industry: Enterprise Software and Artificial Intelligence 

What they do: Salesforce develops cloud-based customer relationship management (CRM) software alongside an expansive ecosystem that includes Tableau for data analytics and Slack for workplace collaboration. The company embeds artificial intelligence across its platforms to help organizations automate routine workflows, track performance and manage customer interactions across entire enterprise networks. To support these operations globally, Salesforce maintains regional administrative hubs in several major cities, including Chicago.

 

Industry: Hardware, Software, Cybersecurity

What they do: Cisco engineers the digital infrastructure that connects and powers modern enterprise networks. The company integrates core networking and cybersecurity hardware with software designed for system observability and business collaboration through products like Meraki and Webex. In Chicago, the firm maintains a major operational hub based in the historic Old Main Post Office building.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: Morningstar supplies financial research and portfolio management software to investors around the world. Headquartered in Chicago, the firm evaluates markets through dedicated platforms such as PitchBook for private equity and Sustainalytics for ESG performance. The company also handles credit risk analysis through DBRS Credit Ratings alongside its flagship software, Morningstar Direct.

 

Industry: Artificial Intelligence, Software and Heavy Machinery

What they do: Caterpillar manufactures global industrial machinery, power systems and heavy equipment under the Cat brand. Through its Cat Digital division, the firm integrates smart technology into its fleets, utilizing high-precision spatial data from Skycatch alongside artificial intelligence to power remote machine operation and site analytics. Caterpillar also deploys conversational tools like the voice-activated Cat AI Assistant to guide in-cab safety controls, hazard detection and automated diagnostics for operators.

 

Industry: Information Technology

What they do: Lessen coordinates maintenance and facility operations for real estate clients nationwide. The company connects property operators with vendor networks using its One by Lessen platform to automate work orders alongside invoicing. It also utilizes its Aiden machine learning software to streamline work order creation across retail and residential sites.

 

Industry: Governance, Risk and Compliance

What they do: LogicGate develops governance, risk and compliance software that helps businesses handle complex regulatory demands. The company delivers its capabilities through the Risk Cloud platform, which helps organizations navigate operational resilience and manage machine learning governance. Highly regulated industries rely on LogicGate’s tools to identify vulnerabilities and maintain strict compliance across their operations.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: Bectran, Inc. operates a cloud-based platform that automates order-to-cash processes for credit and accounts receivable teams. Based in Schaumburg, the company provides tools for credit management, collections and invoicing workflows, helping organizations reduce financial risk and improve operational efficiency. Bectran’s platform integrates connected intelligence and automation to streamline the full order-to-cash lifecycle for enterprise customers across industries.

 

Industry: Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics

What they do: Prosodica operates an conversation analytics platform that captures tone, pacing, empathy and engagement across customer and employee interactions. The platform transforms that speech data into measurable insights through its proprietary engagement score metric platform, enabling organizations to improve customer experiences and enhance agent performance. Based in Chicago, Prosodica serves enterprises across customer experience, operations, sales and human resources with real-time analysis and AI-driven coaching capabilities.

 

Industry: HR Tech

What they do: Hireology is a HR tech company that provides an applicant tracking system and hiring a platform for retail automotive, healthcare and hospitality industries. The platform integrates job boards, candidate screening, video interviews, onboarding and analytics tools to help multi-location businesses streamline recruitment and maintain hiring consistency across departments and facilities.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: Inspira Financial provides health, wealth, retirement and benefits management solutions. The firm partners with employers and plan sponsors to help individuals save and invest using tools such as self-directed IRAs and automatic rollover programs. To support these services, Inspira Financial operates an AI-driven benefits platform alongside integrated access to provide tailored education services.

 

Industry: Healthtech and Artificial Intelligence

What they do: Tempus AI applies machine learning algorithms to vast multimodal libraries of clinical and molecular data. The company’s AI-driven diagnostics alongside automated clinical trial matching tools connect patients to relevant experimental therapies. Tempus’ precision medicine solutions enable physicians to tailor treatment plans across oncology, cardiology and radiology, while accelerating drug development for pharmaceutical partners.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: EDGE delivers cash-flow credit analytics to financial institutions evaluating consumers with limited traditional credit histories. Operating as a consumer reporting agency, the company processes bank account transaction data to assess real-time income, spending habits, and account stability. Lenders integrate EDGE’s financial indicators into their underwriting systems to verify borrower income and streamline credit risk decisions.

 

Industry: Software Development

What they do: Caxy develops enterprise-grade web applications and custom software platforms that modernize legacy corporate infrastructure. The software agency integrates artificial intelligence models and custom API architectures into existing database systems. Caxy’s technical approach transforms manual operational workflows into automated digital processes for growing organizations.

 

Industry: Agentic AI

What they do: Bellagent offers an enterprise software platform that deploys automated AI agents for routine workplace workflows. The technology integrates into existing software systems without custom code to handle high-volume repetitive tasks. Organizations use Bellagent agents to coordinate background workflows across sales, operations and internal support services.

 

Industry: Live Events and E-Commerce

What they do: Vivid Seats operates an e-commerce marketplace connecting fans with sellers for major live sports, concerts and theater events. Headquartered in Chicago’s historic Marshall Field building, the company powers its secondary ticketing platform using proprietary discovery and interactive seating tools. Beyond serving individual buyers, Vivid Seats acts as the official ticketing partner for numerous professional sports franchises and media organizations.

 

Industry: Financial Services

What they do: TransUnion is a global information and insights company headquartered that provides credit reporting, fraud prevention and customer analytics solutions. The company uses AI and machine learning through its OneTru platform to connect data, identity and analytics for smarter risk and marketing decisions. TransUnion serves financial services, insurance, automotive and other industries.

 

Industry: Healthtech

What they do: PatientPoint operates a digital point-of-care network across healthcare facilities. Its platform delivers tailored health content to patients and providers at the moment of care through digital screens in waiting rooms, exam rooms and staff areas. By engaging audiences at these critical touchpoints, PatientPoint helps providers retain patients and deliver high-value health education.

 

Industry: Consulting

What they do: PwC provides tax planning, financial auditing and strategic consulting services to organizations around the world. Operating out of Chicago’s Loop district, the professional services firm helps clients navigate complex business transformations, risk management and cybersecurity threats. Its global workforce advises companies on regulatory requirements while driving operational efficiency across diverse industries.

 

Industry: Gaming

What they do: Allwyn North America manages official state lottery operations across a vast network of physical retail locations and digital sales channels. As part of a global lottery group, the Chicago-based business provides the underlying technology, game management and operational infrastructure for major draw games and instant scratch-offs.

 

Industry: Software, Consulting

What they do: UL Solutions specializes in applied safety science. It aims to bring businesses testing and consulting services and software products that help them achieve strategic business growth while also making safety and sustainability a core priority. The company works with organizations across industries such as automotive, construction, oil and gas, financial services and pharmaceuticals.

 

Industry: Information Technology

What they do: Companies partner with CDW to help them leverage technology, enabling them to reach their goals and fuel innovation. CDW provides customized solutions, services and relationships to help businesses realize their visions. Its goal is to help companies navigate the complex IT market and get the most out of their technology investments.

 

Industry: Industrial Supply Services

What they do: Grainger is a distributor of industrial maintenance, repair and operating supplies and services. The company connects millions of commercial customers to safety gear, tools and material handling equipment through its mobile and digital commerce platforms. Serving businesses across North America and Japan, Grainger supports operational continuity and workplace safety for manufacturing, healthcare and industrial facilities.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: Upside connects brick-and-mortar merchants with nearby consumers through a mobile rewards marketplace. The platform analyzes real-time merchant margins to present personalized cash-back offers that drive foot traffic during slow business hours. After shoppers complete purchases with linked credit or debit cards, Upside’s software automatically calculates and deposits earned financial incentives into user accounts.

 

Industry: Adtech

What they do: Comcast operates a global technology and media company that delivers home internet, mobile services and digital video connectivity through brands like Xfinity. The company maintains a large regional office presence near Millennium Park in Chicago to support its network operations.

 

Industry: Research and Software Development

What they do: Dscout operates an experience research platform that streamlines user research from participant recruitment through final analysis. Product and design teams use the software to run field studies and interviews that gather real-world consumer insights. Headquartered in Chicago, Dscout supports employees through a remote-first work model with optional on-site office space.

 

Industry: Healthtech

What they do: Medtelligent delivers its specialized software for senior living facilities through the ALIS platform, which unifies resident care administration with clinical workflows and operational reporting. Senior living operators across the country on Medtelligent’s system to manage billing tasks and uphold regulatory compliance across their facilities.

 

Industry: Consulting

What they do: ZS provides management consulting services alongside enterprise technology solutions to help organizations optimize commercial performance. The firm combines industry expertise with data analytics algorithms to improve sales operations and marketing strategies. ZS’s approach helps clients navigate complex business environments and streamline overall operational efficiency.

 

Industry: IoT and Hardware

What they do: Fortune Brands Innovations manufactures connected home and security products through brands such as Moen and Yale. The company embeds digital technologies into residential water and safety systems to improve everyday functionality.

 

Industry: Event Planning

What they do: PartySlate operates a photo-centric digital marketplace connecting event hosts with local venue operators and event professionals. Event businesses can use the platform to publish visual portfolios of past work to attract prospective commercial leads. On the flip side, Event planners search through PartySlate’s curated project photos to hire vendors for upcoming events.

 

Industry: Artificial Intelligence and Consulting

What they do: Quantum Rise is an AI consultancy that helps companies build AI capabilities and drive measurable business outcomes through governed AI workflows and team adoption. The company combines human expertise with AI technology to identify opportunities, design solutions and transfer capability into client organizations. Quantum Rise serves enterprises seeking to transform their operations through artificial intelligence.

 

Industry: Food, Logistics

What they do: McCain Foods is made up of multiple companies and brands that support the production of french fries and other prepared foods for restaurants and consumers. The company says the majority of its potatoes come from local farmers, with its network of agriculture partners harvesting close to 6.8 million tons of potatoes annually.

 

Industry: Financial Services and Proprietary Trading

What they do: Simplex Trading is a technology-driven market-making firm founded in Chicago. It specializes in electronic trading of U.S. exchange-traded securities and options, building proprietary software to support strategic trading and market-making operations. Simplex Trading pairs scalable infrastructure with data-driven research to maintain its competitive edge.

 

Industry: Financial Services

What they do: Commonly known as The Chicago Fed, the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, describes itself as “an organization devoted to serving the public good,” with its work contributing to U.S. monetary policy and ensuring responsible banking operations. Its team includes professionals who specialize in areas such as IT, economic research, auditing and law enforcement.

 

Industry: Information Technology 

What they do: Netrix is an IT consultant and managed service provider. The company delivers cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, digital workplace and artificial intelligence solutions though its networks of skilled engineers AI developers. Additionally, Netrix operates professional and managed services divisions such service desks and security operations center.

 

Industry: HR Tech and Software

What they do: Qualtrics provides software that helps organizations collect and evaluate feedback across core business operations. Through its XM Platform, the company translates customer, employee and product survey data into actionable operational insights. Operating hubs in Chicago and other global business centers, Qualtrics supports enterprise clients with tools to track and improve brand perception.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: Pangea Money Transfer provides a mobile platform that allows users to send money internationally with low transfer fees. Based in Chicago’s Loop district, the service enables families to send funds directly to overseas bank accounts, debit cards, mobile wallets or cash pickup spots. Alongside cross-border transfers, Pangea Money also offers secondary financial solutions such as international bill payment, domestic money transfers and digital checking accounts.

 

Industry: E-Commerce and Proptech

What they do: Purchasing Platform runs a specialized B2B e-commerce marketplace and spend management software tailored for real estate managers. The platform links property operators with pre-vetted supply vendors who offer volume-discounted product catalogs built for commercial real estate portfolios. Property management teams use Purchasing Platform to automate procurement workflows, track operating expenses and structure capital expenditure projects.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: NinjaTrader develops trade execution software designed for active individual futures traders. The platform provides customized charting capabilities and order routing alongside automated strategy execution tools. It also offers direct brokerage services to assist users throughout their market transactions.

 

Industry: Financial Services

What they do: Wolverine Trading is a trading firm that specializes in market making and valuation arbitrage across global markets. It continuously bids and offers quotes on equities, futures, exchange-traded funds and cash bonds and provides liquidity across multiple asset classes and venues. The firm operates as part of the Wolverine group, which includes Wolverine Execution Services and Wolverine Asset Management, serving clients through its Chicago and New York offices.

 

Industry: Financial Services

What they do: Adyen processes both online and in-person transactions for enterprise clients. Operating its North American technology hub out of Chicago, the fintech company combines end-to-end payment processing with real-time transaction data analytics. Adyen’s unified system enables high-volume global merchants to handle diverse payment methods — including credit cards and digital wallets — within a single infrastructure.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: NinjaHoldings deploys full-stack financial technology platforms to supply credit solutions to underserved consumer markets. The company operates digital consumer brands such as CreditNinja, alongside its NinjaCard platform. And its proprietary NinjaEdge software processes alternative financial data through machine learning models to deliver automated credit scoring and fraud detection.

 

Industry: Manufacturing and Construction

What they do: Operating as a family-owned holding firm, The HEICO Companies oversees a diverse global network of manufacturing, construction, and industrial service businesses. The enterprise supports specialized divisions that design engineered components, build heavy machinery and execute complex field projects. Through strategic acquisitions and reinvestment, the firm also provides long-term capital to help its operating subsidiaries scale their industrial operations worldwide.

 

Industry: E-Commerce

What they do: Zoro sells industrial tools, replacement parts and commercial supplies to business clients. Operating as a Grainger subsidiary, the platform utilizes machine learning algorithms to enhance product search and personalize customer order recommendations. Zoro’s digital distribution infrastructure processes high-volume web transactions to deliver maintenance equipment directly to commercial job sites.

 

Industry: Marketing Tech

What they do: tms combines marketing strategy with technical development to build customer engagement programs for multinational enterprises. The agency creates interactive retail experiences while managing global procurement logistics for its clients. By merging creative campaign design with sourcing networks, tms executes brand loyalty operations on a global scale.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: tastytrade operates a financial ecosystem providing retail investors with online brokerage platforms for trading stocks, options, futures, spot forex and digital assets. Through specialized channels like tastyfx and tastycrypto, the platform enables users to execute multi-asset strategies alongside digital wallet management tools. Based in Chicago, the fintech company pairs high-speed order execution with daily video programming and financial education streamed live through tastylive.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: Capital One is a leading financial services provider that offers products ranging from credit cards and checking accounts to auto loans and commercial banking solutions. 

 

Industry: Business Management Software

What they do: Rundoo develops cloud-based business management software designed specifically for independent hardware and paint retailers. Store owners rely on the platform to run daily point-of-sale operations, automate inventory orders and track sales performance metrics.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: Clearwater Analytics operates a unified front-to-back investment management platform for institutional asset managers, hedge funds, insurance companies and pension funds. Maintaining a major office in Chicago, the firm integrated Enfusion to combine portfolio management and order execution capabilities within a single architecture. Clearwater Analytics’s platform enables global financial institutions to compile market data, evaluate account risks and monitor trading activity.

 

Industry: IoT, Software and Hardware

What they do: Headquartered in Oak Brook, Chamberlain Group manufactures physical and digital access hardware for residential and commercial properties. The company produces smart garage door openers, commercial gate controllers and automated entry systems under its LiftMaster brand. Through its myQ ecosystem, the Chamberlain Group integrates these mechanical systems with cloud software to enable secure, remote entry monitoring.

 

Industry: Financial Services

What they do: Belvedere Trading is a proprietary trading firm and market maker specializing in equity index and commodity derivatives. Headquartered in Chicago with offices in New York and Singapore, the firm combines trading and technology expertise to develop and optimize trading models. Belvedere Trading actively recruits engineers and quantitative traders, to strengthen its tech infrastructure and trading metrologies.

 

Industry: E-Commerce and Retail

What they do: Ahold Delhaize USA operates major East Coast grocery brands including Food Lion, Stop & Shop and Giant. The firm integrates its brick-and-mortar stores with digital storefronts to support seamless omnichannel grocery shopping. And for its traditional retail channels, the company manages extensive supply chain networks and regional delivery services to distribute food and household products.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: Beyond Finance creates financial software that structures accelerated debt resolution plans for individuals. The firm uses proprietary algorithms to analyze client liability profiles and lower monthly payment obligations. Beyond Finance’s technology-driven process guides users toward long-term balance sheet recovery.

 

Industry: Food and Beverage

What they do: Headquartered in Chicago’s Fulton Market neighborhood, Mondelēz International manufactures packaged food products for global retail markets. The firm produces baked snacks, cookies and sweets under major consumer labels like Oreo, Ritz, Cadbury Dairy Milk and Toblerone. Mondelēz International supplies packaged foods to retailers across more than a hundred countries.

 

Industry: Energy, Consulting and Business Intelligence

What they do: Energy CX operates an energy brokerage that helps commercial clients purchase power more efficiently. The firm uses custom data analytics and quantitative trading methods to reduce energy costs while handling complex utility issues for large physical facilities. Organizations across the country rely on Energy CX’s analytical tools to implement sustainable energy solutions and manage site utility logistics.

 

Industry: Fintech, Healthtech, Software

What they do: Strata Decision Technology develops cloud software that measures and improves institutional financial performance. Thousands of client organizations use the company’s tools to manage budgeting processes alongside cost and labor analytics. Strata Decision Technology delivers these capabilities through its specialized StrataJazz platform for healthcare providers and the Axiom platform for higher education and financial institutions.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: Supernova Technology builds automated software that manages the complete lifecycle of securities-based loans. The platform equips wealth managers, banking institutions and insurance providers with digital infrastructure to originate, service and monitor credit lines backed by investment portfolios. Through Supernova’s cloud tools, financial institutions deploy collateralized lending solutions across domestic and international markets.

 

Industry: Business Travel  

What they do: Perk offers a platform with an array of services for managing corporate travel. It enables client companies to handle bookings for large groups and track travel-related expenses. The company has its Chicago office in the heart of River North. 

 

Industry: Risk Management Software

What they do: Fusion Risk Management delivers enterprise software designed for operational resilience, business continuity and disaster recovery. The company’s Fusion Framework System and AI-driven Fusion Intelligence module collect risk data to help organizations prepare for operational disruptions. Using Fusion Risk’s unified monitoring tools, risk managers evaluate systemic threats and coordinate crisis response plans across their operations.

 

Industry: Marketing Tech 

What they do: Epsilon operates a data and identity platform that helps brands establish direct relationships with consumers. The firm combines consumer transaction data with its PeopleCloud software to build tailored marketing journeys. These tools enable businesses to coordinate personalized messaging across various digital engagement channels.

 

Industries: Social Media, Software

What they do: Sprout Social is a social media management platform that enables users to schedule posts, engage with followers and create analytics-based strategies in one place. Sprout Social works across social platforms like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest and Instagram. 

 

Industry: Tech Consulting

What they do: Thoughtworks is a global technology consultancy that blends design, engineering and artificial intelligence to help businesses transform their digital operations. The company works with organizations to adopt cloud platforms, organize data infrastructure and build technical capabilities across their teams. Thoughtworks serves clients across industries by combining strategic consulting with hands-on software delivery and engineering expertise.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: Enova operates several online lending platforms, including NetCredit, CashNetUSA and On Stride Financial, to offer credit directly to individuals and small businesses. The company analyzes customer data with machine learning algorithms to calculate appropriate loan amounts for each applicant. Evova’s automated evaluation process allows it to make lending decisions and disburse funds quickly to qualified borrowers.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: Attain connects real-time consumer purchase behavior with digital marketing through its proprietary data ecosystem. Brands use the company’s platform to target high-intent shoppers, optimize ad spending and track campaign outcomes across digital channels and physical store visits. Additionally, Attain operates Klover, a financial app offering cash advances and credit tools directly to consumers.

 

Industry: Logistics

What they do: Flexport operates a supply chain management platform. The platform coordinates global logistics from factory to customer door, offering air freight, customs brokerage and trade finance services. The company serves several thousand clients and maintains a significant presence in Chicago, where it houses its product and engineering teams.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: Avant operates a digital financial platform that provides personal installment loans alongside a credit-building credit card. Consumers use the platform to manage large expenses, consolidate high-interest debt or cover emergency costs through fixed monthly payment plans. Headquartered in Chicago, Avant processes applications entirely online to deliver quick borrowing decisions.

 

Industries: Fintech, Professional Services  

What they do: OCC is a financial institution focused on providing investors and organizations with seamless experiences. The company has developed a reputation as a leading clearinghouse with its emphasis on risk management. OCC relies on the Monte Carlo-based method for carrying out its risk analyses. As a result, institutions are able to accurately weigh the potential risks of their customers’ portfolios with the tools and insights of OCC.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: YCharts provides financial analytics and proposal generation software for financial advisors and asset managers. The company delivers investment research, portfolio construction and client engagement tools to advisors and wealth managers. YCharts also functions as a data provider, offering advisors access to comprehensive market data, alternatives data and macroeconomic indicators through direct API connections and an Excel add-in.

 

Industry: Fintech

What they do: By leveraging disruptive technologies like AI and machine learning, IMC is supporting its growing trading operations while working toward its goal of becoming the world’s top trading firm. Its Chicago headquarters occupies three floors of the Willis Tower, where employees enjoy perks such as catered meals, a commuter stipend, sponsored events and more. The global company has a number of other offices around the world.

 

Industry: Logistics

What they do: Toro TMS operates a software platform designed for dry and liquid bulk haulers to manage dispatching alongside back-office workflows. The Chicago-based business automates driver communications, invoice generation, maintenance tracking and credential records.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Major players include Google, Salesforce, Cisco, Morningstar and Caterpillar, along with dozens of mid-sized firms and startups.

Yes. Google is expanding its footprint, Salesforce operates a regional headquarters and Cisco has a major office in the Old Chicago Post Office.

Roles span software development, data and analytics, trading, risk management, fintech services, healthtech, logistics and marketing technology.

Ana Gore, Margo Steines, Rose Velazquez, Ashley Brownridge and Sara B.T. Thiel contributed reporting to this story.

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