Software companies in Northern Kentucky are rapidly becoming key players in the global software and IT industry. Thanks to the region’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and supportive business environment, there is a strong foundation for tech companies looking to grow. From custom software development to cybersecurity solutions and cloud computing, Northern Kentucky’s IT ecosystem is expanding, driven by industry leaders and innovative startups alike.
The Northern Kentucky Tech Industry: Growth & Impact
Between 2019 and 2024, local IT employment grew by 8%, and between 2024-2029, the industry is projected to see a further 19.6% in growth. The growth of the tech workforce in Northern Kentucky plays a vital role in the region’s overall economic growth. It contributes to broader job creation and technological advancement across multiple industries.
This growth has been fueled by a strong pipeline of tech talent. It has also been supported by regional investments in digital infrastructure. Strategic partnerships between the private sector and higher education institutions also help the tech industry here expand.
In a 2024 report, Business Facilities ranked the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region in its Top 10 for Best Business Climate in the U.S.
Today there are nearly 100 companies working in the tech sector in Northern Kentucky. They offer services in:
- Cyber and information security
- Computer systems design and infrastructure
- Software development
- Logistics operations and automation systems
- Data processing
- Hosting
- IT
- Financial services
Those companies employ 150,000+ people across the region.
Leading IT & Software Companies in Northern Kentucky
Northern Kentucky is home to a diverse mix of IT and software companies. These range from custom software development firms to cybersecurity specialists and logistics technology innovators. Some of the most notable IT companies in Northern Kentucky include:
1. Red Hawk Technologies
Red Hawk is a software development company specializing in:
- Custom business applications
- Cloud solutions
- Digital automation
for companies seeking operational efficiency. In 2024 they were named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in the U.S.
2. C-Forward
An IT solutions provider, C-Forward offers businesses across the Midwest:
- Managed services
- Cybersecurity
- Cloud computing
They recently made a $2.3M investment in the region that resulted in the addition of 31 jobs to the area.
3. Global Business Solutions (GBS)
A leader in managed IT services, networking solutions, and business communications. GBS is helping companies stay connected and secure.
4. Pomeroy
Pomeroy is a nationally recognized provider of:
- IT infrastructure
- Digital transformation services
- End-user computing solutions
In 2024, this Hebron-based tech company expanded its reach by opening offices in New York City and in India.
These companies, along with many emerging startups, are making Northern Kentucky a prime location for tech innovation and business expansion.
A Prime Destination for IT Companies: Northern Kentucky
IT companies in Northern Kentucky benefit from a unique combination of regional advantages. These foster growth and innovation:
1. Strategic Location
- The region offers easy access to major markets. There is also a high concentration of Fortune 500 headquarters nearby.
- Businesses can tap into one of the most extensive logistics networks in the U.S. This will give them unparalleled connectivity to tech firms serving global clients.
- The area has so many fiber optic cables crisscrossing the community, it has been called “one of the most wired communities in the world.”
2. Skilled Workforce & Talent Pipeline
- Northern Kentucky’s tech industry draws from a regional workforce of over 1.5 million people. This includes thousands of recent IT and engineering graduates each year.
- Local universities such as Northern Kentucky University (NKU) and the University of Cincinnati offer cutting-edge programs in:
- Computer science
- Cybersecurity
- Software development
3. Cost-Effective Business Environment
- Lower operational costs than Silicon Valley and other major tech hubs make Northern Kentucky an affordable alternative for startups and established firms.
- Competitive business incentives and tax benefits for IT firms looking to expand or relocate.
4. A Supportive Tech Ecosystem
- Organizations like BE NKY Growth Partnership provide:
- Business development resources
- Workforce training programs
- Funding assistance
- Networking and innovation hubs, including incubators and coworking spaces, help foster collaboration and startup growth.
Innovation & Future Trends in Northern Kentucky’s IT Sector
The technology industry is constantly evolving. Northern Kentucky is well-positioned to stay ahead of the curve. Companies in the region are building on their legacy and experience to develop cutting-edge advancements to drive innovation in multiple sectors.
Artificial Intelligence & Automation
In 2017, only 20% of businesses reported utilizing artificial intelligence (AI). Five years later that number jumped to 55%. And it has most likely continued to climb.
Northern Kentucky companies are fueling this growth by finding new ways to enhance business operations with:
- AI-driven data analytics
- Machine learning
- Automation solutions
One of those companies is Nexigen Communications. They are making a $4.35m investment in building an AI research lab in 2025.
Cybersecurity
As businesses prioritize digital security, Northern Kentucky firms are developing advanced cybersecurity solutions to protect sensitive data. Experts in the region are not just reacting to cybersecurity needs, but proactively putting security measures in place.
In 2022, Northern Kentucky University opened the Global Business Solutions Tech and Innovation Center. There students can gain practical knowledge in cybersecurity; knowledge they can immediately take to market.
Logistics & Supply Chain Tech
Northern Kentucky is a global logistics hub. IT companies in the region play a major part in optimizing supply chain management through:
- AI
- IoT
- Real-time tracking technologies
As technology continues to shape business operations worldwide, the Northern Kentucky tech industry is set to expand, with ongoing investments in R&D, workforce training, and emerging tech solutions.
Partnering for Success: BE NKY Growth Partnership
Northern Kentucky isn’t just attracting IT companies—it’s actively supporting their growth. BE NKY Growth Partnership works with businesses to:
- Identify expansion opportunities and assist with site selection.
- Navigate tax incentives and funding options.
- Connect with skilled talent pools from universities and training programs.
- Foster innovation through strategic industry partnerships.
The region also has a mature system in place to support start-up ventures. OneNKY Center will be a center for business innovation. Blue North KY is an incubator that connects entrepreneurs to opportunities in the region.
For companies seeking a business-friendly, innovation-driven environment, Northern Kentucky offers the:
- Resources
- Talent
- Infrastructure
to thrive in the IT industry.
Looking to Grow Your Tech Workforce in Northern Kentucky?
Northern Kentucky has emerged as an attractive option for technology-focused businesses seeking:
- Affordable space
- Well-connected locations
- Access to top talent and cutting-edge infrastructure
Supported by organizations like BE NKY Growth Partnership, software & IT companies relocating or expanding in the region can find the resources they need to succeed. Are you ready to talk about how software companies in Northern Kentucky can take advantage of all that the region has to offer?
