New Orleans is emerging as a new destination for tech companies like Copado.
The arrival of Copado, an AI-powered software company, in New Orleans signals a new chapter for the city’s tech scene. CEO Ted Elliott’s personal journey led to this corporate expansion, aiming to create new job opportunities in a region previously slow to attract tech investments. With plans to grow their team and backed by local economic development groups, Copado’s presence is part of a larger trend of tech companies recognizing New Orleans as a viable location for innovation.
New Orleans, known for its vibrant culture and warm climate, is making waves in the tech industry as more companies recognize its potential. One of the latest entrants into the Crescent City is Copado, a software firm that specializes in AI-powered business applications. This move comes as a welcome development in a state that has been slow to attract major tech investments, but things are changing, and fast!
Ted Elliott, the CEO of Copado, made the bold decision to relocate to New Orleans in 2021 after a harrowing battle with cancer. Seeking to be closer to his parents during a tough time, Elliott found inspiration in the rich culture and connectivity of the region. Fast forward to January 29, 2025, and Copado officially opened its doors in New Orleans, marking a significant milestone in its journey.
As of now, Copado has a team of 13 employees in New Orleans, and the plan is to expand that number to 25 by mid-2025. This growth is not just about numbers; it’s about creating new tech job opportunities in a market that has had its challenges. By establishing a presence in New Orleans, Copado is among a wave of smaller companies looking to tap into the state’s evolving tech scene. Other companies like DAQA and 360 Insights are also making their mark, with plans to hire up to 20 and 50 people, respectively.
One of the driving factors behind Copado’s expansion is the convenience and connectivity that New Orleans offers. Remote workers can easily access key tech hubs like Chicago, New York, and cities on the West Coast. This makes it an attractive destination for tech talent who might not have considered the region before.
The presence of Copado and similar companies is supported by economic development groups in Louisiana, such as Greater New Orleans Inc. and Louisiana Economic Development, who are eager to increase the tech job market in the area. While the combined payrolls of these new companies are modest compared to past high-profile tech deals, they signify a shift in the local economy and an opportunity for growth.
Interestingly, the gross regional product for the tech industry in Louisiana rose from $4.3 billion in 2020 to approximately $4.8 billion in 2024. However, New Orleans has not yet made it onto the list of the top 50 tech talent markets in the United States, unlike locations such as Boston or San Francisco, which continue to draw substantial venture capital investments. Nevertheless, with Copado’s commitment and similar company expansions, there’s a palpable sense of optimism for the future.
To further fuel its growth strategy, Copado plans to take advantage of state tax incentives for tech businesses. This strategic move is a savvy approach to bolster its operations and attract new talent to the area. Among the competition, Copado is not alone; companies like Excella, based in Texas, are also establishing tech hubs in New Orleans, making the city a focal point for tech innovation.
Ted Elliott envisions a future where New Orleans can become a significant player in the digital landscape. With the upcoming industrial growth, including the tech-focused Meta data center in north Louisiana, there is hope that more tech job opportunities will emerge. Yet, there remain challenges, particularly in attracting tech talent who might have misconceptions about the cost of living versus actual expenses, including insurance.
As Copado sets up shop in New Orleans, the local community eagerly looks forward to its growth and the broader possibilities it signifies for the region’s tech industry. In a city that thrives on creativity and resilience, who knows how far these new ventures will go?
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