Tomorrow’s Tech is in Nashville. Here’s Why.
Once known primarily for its care, the Nashville Region now has a reputation as a rising tech hub. With an influx of startups, expansions by national tech players and local efforts to strengthen the talent pipeline, including collaborations, the region’s technology sector is growing fast.
Mark Blaze, the new president and CEO of the Greater Nashville Technology Council, shares his insights on the region’s momentum in tech and where it is headed.
Describe the Nashville Region’s tech scene today compared to 10 years ago.
Fueled by Nashville’s heritage as a health care leader, we’ve seen strong growth in health tech and digital health innovation.
What excites me most is how much more diverse our tech ecosystem has become. The expansion of financial services, automotive, retail, manufacturing and entertainment sectors has created a broader, more dynamic landscape. Fintech, in particular, reflects how our regional economy is evolving through technology.
The region has seen exciting tech developments recently, including Oracle’s East Bank campus and Asurion’s continued growth. What role do large employers play in the region’s tech growth?
Large employers are vital. They not only create jobs, but they also have the scale and resources to drive innovation. As our region grows, it’s essential to stay aligned with their evolving needs so our workforce can meet them.
Companies like AWS, AllianceBernstein, HCA Healthcare, Tractor Supply and Bridgestone are deeply invested in tech workforce development, which raises the profile of our region’s tech community. Looking ahead, I anticipate even greater collaboration between employers and higher education to address fast-changing workforce needs.
The Greater Nashville Technology Council is proud to serve as a conduit for that collaboration. Thanks to continued efforts from the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, I’m confident more large employers will choose to call this region home.
What does the Nashville Region need to keep attracting and retaining high-growth startups?
Capital is key. We need investors with higher risk tolerance and a willingness to support nontraditional sectors. That’s why the Nashville Innovation Alliance’s work to develop a regional innovation hub is so exciting.
This initiative can grow our innovation community, and the Greater Nashville Technology Council is proud to be involved. Kudos to Vanderbilt University and Metro Nashville government for their leadership in creating the alliance.
We’re also fortunate to have strong support from groups like the Nashville Entrepreneur Center, Launch Tennessee, the Private Capital Association and the Chamber, which are all essential in nurturing Nashville’s startup spirit.
How can the Nashville Region strengthen its tech workforce?
Public-private collaboration is essential. Building a strong, inclusive pipeline means aligning K-12, higher ed and workforce initiatives with industry needs. That includes relevant curriculum, hands-on experiences, like internships and clear pathways into tech.
We’re proud to host Metropolitan Action Commission’s STEAM Camp for high school students, supported by Tennessee State University, AllianceBernstein, FreightWise, CGI, Apple and state and local governments. The camp plays a vital role in talent development, but to build a sustainable workforce, we also need to retain homegrown talent and attract professionals from outside the region.
Where do you see the Nashville Region’s most significant opportunities in emerging tech?
AI, cybersecurity, data analytics, cloud infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, mobility innovation and fintech are all key areas of opportunity. These technologies align closely with the strengths of our local industry sectors.
Where do you see the Nashville Region’s tech scene in 5-10 years?
I recently read an article describing Nashville as a Southern tech powerhouse, and I couldn’t agree more. If we lean into our innovative potential and fully support bold initiatives, like the Nashville-West Yorkshire HealthTech Bridge, I believe Nashville can gain global recognition as a tech center. Let’s aim high.
As the new president and CEO of the Greater Nashville Technology Council, what are your goals?
To quote author Patrick Tremblay, “Hope is the desperate man’s currency,” but in our case, we have action, strategy and community commitment. Through education, workforce development, advocacy and collaborative economic development, the council will elevate our tech community. My hope is for global recognition of Nashville as a model for innovation, inclusion and impact.
If you’d like to learn more about the Greater Nashville Region, check out the latest edition of Livability: Nashville Region.