Laney: Gradient Supports Growth with Innovation Hub

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Big things are happening in Tulsa’s innovation and entrepreneurship landscape. Last October, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Administration named Tulsa one of 31 First Tech Centers, signaling the region’s rapid growth in key technology industries. The distinction not only underscores Tulsa’s role as a leader in innovation, but also positions the region to receive more than $75 million in federal funding.

Tulsa’s progress would not be possible without the efforts of organizations dedicated to fostering innovation. For the past eight years, 36 Degrees North has been at the center of that mission as a hub for entrepreneurs, startups, and remote workers in Tulsa. As Tulsa grows and evolves, 36 Degrees North must grow with it. That’s why we’re excited to announce our new name: Gradient – Tulsa Innovation Center.

With our new name comes a new location. The 112,000-square-foot renovation of the historic OTASCO warehouse will unite Gradient’s three current locations under one roof. This new hub will offer workspace for teams of all sizes, incubator and accelerator programs, capital providers, key ecosystem partners, conference rooms, and on-site dining. Additionally, a state-of-the-art 300-person event space will allow Tulsa to host national symposiums and conferences on innovation, workforce, and entrepreneurship, raising awareness of Tulsa’s leadership in these areas and giving our members a front-row seat. Gradient’s new location at 12 North Cheyenne Ave. is scheduled to open in the winter of 2024 and will be one of the largest innovation centers in the country.

Over the past five years, Gradient members have generated more than $1.13 billion in economic impact in the Tulsa region. In 2023 alone, Gradient supported more than 3,000 members, including 445 companies and 40 technology startups, helping to create more than 3,200 jobs. These companies earned $147.1 million in gross sales and raised $77.2 million in funding.

Gradient doesn’t go it alone. Key partners like Tulsa Remote play a vital role in strengthening Tulsa’s workforce. Through this unique partnership, Tulsa Remote members are integrated into the Gradient community, offering access to workspaces and resources purpose-built for remote workers. This collaboration fosters opportunities to connect with startups and contribute to Tulsa’s growing talent pool.

Our name change does not reflect a change in mission, but a renewed focus on supporting entrepreneurship, remote work, and small businesses. The new Gradient Innovation Center will be a catalyst for economic development in Oklahoma, and I invite you to see this energy for yourself and join the entrepreneurs shaping Tulsa’s future.

Gradient means growth, and this is where ideas, talents and perspectives come together to drive innovation.

We are offering hard hat tours before we open this winter. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of Tulsa’s future of innovation, visiting the Gradient.

Devon Laney is the general director Gradientformerly 36 degrees north.