Xchange Chicago Launches Innovative Tech Hub to Foster Local Workforce Development

New Technology Business Hub in Grand Crossing

Xchange Chicago has officially opened its new technology business hub in Grand Crossing, marking a significant step toward enhancing the tech landscape on the South Side of Chicago. The ribbon-cutting ceremony held on November 17, 2025, was attended by prominent figures, including Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, local business leaders, and representatives from partner organizations such as P33 and SDI Presence.

The state-of-the-art facility spans an impressive 28,000 square feet, situated across from the Comer Education Campus at 7247 S. Chicago Ave. This hub is designed to revolutionize the local workforce by providing training, mentorship, and structured career pathways for residents seeking opportunities in IT and tech.

According to Mayor Johnson, Xchange has already seen success in generating career opportunities, stating, "Xchange has created dynamic career pathways and economic opportunities for more than 50 South Side residents in just over a year." This initiative aims to address significant gaps in IT service capabilities while revitalizing the local economy.

Founded by the Comer Science and Education Foundation, along with P33 and local stakeholders, Xchange Chicago’s mission revolves around creating a fully integrated onshore IT service model that not only strengthens workforce development but also fosters commercial growth in the area. The hub provides unique apprenticeship programs tailored to equip individuals with vital skills necessary for thriving careers in tech roles. Trainees progress into apprentice positions with SDI Presence, ranging from part-time to full-time employment right after their training.

Hardik Bhatt, CEO of SDI Presence, expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with Chicago’s leading businesses to optimize local IT outsourcing, stating, "We have made an intentional 10-year lease commitment to the Xchange onshore tech delivery center. We are glad to be a part of the solution that helps apprentices build lasting tech careers, creating a win-win for businesses and Chicago."

The impact of Xchange is evident, as it has been instrumental in placing 55 apprentices into full-time roles within 18 months, contributing more than $3.25 million in economic benefits to families in the community. Major clients, including Peoples Gas, Northern Trust, MRO, and Aon, are already leveraging Xchange’s services and furthering their involvement by partnering with the tech hub.

Greg Mooney, President of the Comer Science and Education Foundation, highlighted the incredible potential of local talent, stating, "After the success of our initial apprentice cohort, we quickly had a waitlist in the hundreds. Together with companies competing in a new economy, we are now scaling with local talent ready to contribute to the rapidly evolving tech landscape."

The development of the Xchange facility was supported by a generous $5 million community development grant from the City of Chicago. Additionally, Xchange was awarded a $500,000 grant as part of the Learning Landscapes Challenge sponsored by the Walton Family Foundation, aimed at enhancing tech education and career pathways for youth.

In summary, Xchange Chicago stands as a transformative model for workforce development, demonstrating the powerful intersections of community engagement, training, and corporate responsibility. It seeks to drive inclusive economic growth while creating meaningful opportunities in technology for the residents of Chicago's South Side.

For more information about Xchange Chicago, visit Xchange Chicago or consult the recent white paper elaborating on their impressive initiatives.