Fortinet opens its new Innovation Hub in Chicago
Fortinet, long recognized for its cybersecurity leadership, has made a major bet on Chicago with a substantial investment in a new Innovation Hub. The goal isn’t just to cut a ribbon on another building. It’s to work closer with customers, build and test solutions side by side, and move faster against the cybersecurity challenges that keep evolving every day. The hub gives Fortinet a place to deepen partnerships and to turn ideas into practical, tested outcomes for enterprise environments worldwide.
A concrete investment in Chicago
The Chicago Innovation Hub represents an investment of more than $30 million in the local community. The six-story, 90,000-plus–square-foot space was designed to spark collaboration and creativity among employees, partners, and customers. Under one roof, teams can meet, prototype, and iterate—helping Fortinet stay at the front of security technology development while contributing to the city’s growing tech ecosystem.
Built-in cloud strength with a new Cloud Point of Presence
A centerpiece of the hub is a Fortinet Cloud Point of Presence (POP). This installation uses proprietary ASIC technology to boost performance, improve energy efficiency, and cut costs. By expanding Fortinet’s global cloud footprint, the POP helps deliver services, software as a service (SaaS) offerings, and secure access service edge (SASE) capabilities with greater consistency and lower latency. In plain terms: it’s about faster, more reliable, and more secure access for users wherever they are.
Fueling research and development together
The facility is also built for high-impact research and development. Engineers and technical experts can collaborate closely, drawing on local talent and resources to accelerate the pace of innovation. That collaboration isn’t only about improving products; it also strengthens the broader cybersecurity workforce by giving people hands-on experience and a place to grow their skills in real-world scenarios.
Key features of the new facility
The Innovation Hub brings several capabilities under one roof to support Fortinet’s goals and customers:
- Executive Briefing Center: A dedicated venue for engaging with customers and partners, aligning on priorities, and charting next steps that drive collaboration and business growth.
- Cybersecurity Training Facility: A purpose-built environment that hosts Fortinet’s globally recognized certification program, helping close the cybersecurity skills gap by equipping individuals with practical, in-demand skills.
- Expanded Customer Support: A regional services and sales team that strengthens local expertise so customers receive timely, high-quality support and a better experience end to end.
Commitment to building the workforce
Fortinet’s investment extends beyond technology. The company is supporting local chapters of Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) and Blue Star Families. This work supports the advancement of women in tech and provides reskilling opportunities for military veterans. It’s a direct contribution to addressing the cybersecurity skills shortage while fostering a more diverse, resilient talent pool.
Official opening ceremony
The hub’s official opening took place recently, and momentum is building. A ribbon-cutting ceremony with Fortinet leadership marked the launch and underscored the company’s commitment to growing local operations and nurturing innovation. The event set the tone: collaborate more, move faster, and deliver better outcomes for customers.
About Fortinet
Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT) is a leader in cybersecurity, providing integrated solutions that protect users, devices, and data wherever they reside. With a portfolio of more than 50 enterprise-grade products, the company serves over half a million customers. Its focus remains steady: advance the technology, invest in people, and deliver security that works in the real world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main goal of Fortinet’s new Innovation Hub in Chicago?
The hub is designed to bring customers, partners, and engineers together to accelerate cybersecurity innovation and improve real-world customer experiences.
How much did Fortinet invest in the Chicago facility?
Fortinet invested more than $30 million to build and launch the hub, signaling a long-term commitment to Chicago and its tech community.
What are the standout features inside the new hub?
Key features include a Cloud Point of Presence (POP), spaces for research and development, an Executive Briefing Center, and a dedicated Cybersecurity Training Facility hosting Fortinet’s certification program.
How is Fortinet supporting workforce development and diversity?
Fortinet is backing local chapters of Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) and Blue Star Families, supporting women in tech and offering reskilling opportunities for military veterans.
Who took part in the opening ceremony?
Fortinet leadership attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, highlighting the company’s commitment to expanding local operations and fostering innovation.
