Grindr Inc. opens a new office in Chicago to serve as its primary global engineering hub, aiming to enhance its platform for the LGBTQ+ community. The move signifies the company’s commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and expanding its reach worldwide.
Grindr Opens New Engineering Hub in Chicago Amidst Expansion
Los Angeles, May 16, 2024 – In a move marking another step in its ongoing expansion, Grindr Inc., the popular social networking platform for the LGBTQ+ community, has announced the opening of a new office in Chicago. The office, located at 230 W Monroe Street and recently acquired by Menashe Properties, is set to become the company’s primary global engineering hub.
This expansion comes on the heels of a robust financial performance by Grindr in 2023. As the largest social networking app dedicated to gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals, Grindr continues its efforts to innovate and enhance its platform to better serve its diverse user base.
“We are thrilled to open Grindr’s engineering hub in Chicago,” said George Arison, CEO of Grindr. “Chicago’s vibrant business ecosystem and extensive talent pool make it the perfect location for expanding our engineering team. Our goal is to create a world where our users’ lives are free, equal, and just.”
The new office will be led by Joel Keating, Senior Vice President of Engineering and Head of Grindr’s Chicago operations. The company is actively recruiting for various roles, including positions specialising in Android, iOS, Java/Kotlin, Full Stack Development, Data Engineering, Cloud Engineering, and Engineering Management. This recruitment drive aims to tap into Chicago’s expanding technology sector and the calibre of technology professionals in the region.
Joel Keating expressed his excitement about the new office: “Having spent much of my career in Chicago, I am aware of the numerous quality-of-life benefits the city provides. Through our new space, I look forward to leveraging the city’s rich talent pool. We are open to individuals at all career stages, from interns to senior engineers, there is a place for everyone at Grindr.”
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson welcomed the tech firm’s expansion into the city. “Chicago’s diverse business landscape offers an ideal environment for Grindr’s growth and innovation. Our city’s 77 neighbourhoods and dynamic LGBTQIA+ community provide ample opportunities for the company to thrive. Grindr’s expansion will not only strengthen Chicago’s tech sector but also enhance our efforts to foster an inclusive business atmosphere.”
Grindr’s expansion into Chicago underscores the company’s intent to play a significant role in the city’s burgeoning and varied business community. Known for its strong economy and prominent LGBTQ+ presence, Chicago presents itself as an appropriate locale for Grindr’s second global, and now its largest, engineering hub. Assistance in securing this office space was provided by @properties and Nate Grill.
The city’s abundant talent pool, supported by over 200,000 students in the area and backed by local investment and pipeline initiatives, presents a significant advantage as Grindr looks to continue innovating at the intersection of technology and social networking for LGBTQ+ people worldwide.
Grindr has more than 13.5 million monthly active users across 190 countries. It’s recognised as a vital platform for the LGBTQ+ community to connect and express themselves. Beyond simply networking, Grindr has also been involved in promoting human rights, health, and safety through Grindr for Equality, a programme established in 2015. Now, with offices in West Hollywood, the Bay Area, Chicago, and New York, the company aims to enhance its global reach and impact through continued innovation and growth.
With this new Chicago hub, Grindr looks forward to furthering its mission to create a world where the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals are celebrated and supported.
