Missouri Chamber releases 2026 Technology2030 report, highlighting Missouri’s strengths while calling for action to secure the state’s tech future

The Missouri Chamber Foundation released its fifth annual Technology2030 report, offering a comprehensive look at the state’s technology economy and outlining strategies to strengthen Missouri’s competitiveness in an increasingly AI-driven global marketplace.

The report finds that while Missouri’s technology sector remains a powerful economic engine, the industry is entering a new phase marked by rapid advances in artificial intelligence, shifting workforce demands and increased competition from faster-growing states.

“Technology continues to be one of the most important drivers of Missouri’s economy,” said Kara Corches, Missouri Chamber president and CEO. “This report shows that Missouri has significant strengths to build on—from our growing tech manufacturing sector to our affordable business climate—but it also makes clear that we must continue investing in talent, innovation and entrepreneurship to remain competitive. The Missouri Chamber stands ready to be a force multiplier for Missouri’s technology economy by promoting our strengths and advocating for strong, pro-growth policy.”

According to the report, Missouri’s technology industry employed 159,213 workers in 2024, generated more than $43 billion in GDP and supported nearly 290,000 jobs statewide through its economic ripple effects. The sector accounts for approximately 10% of Missouri’s GDP, underscoring its importance to the state’s overall economy.

Among the report’s key findings:

• Missouri’s technology industry added nearly 9,800 net new jobs over the past five years, ranking fifth among all industries in the state for job growth, although 2024 marked the first annual decline in tech industry employment during the report’s history.
• Missouri ranks among the nation’s leaders in tech manufacturing growth, placing fifth nationally for five-year tech manufacturing job growth, fueled by expansion in electronics, batteries and life sciences manufacturing.
• The state continues to offer a competitive advantage through its lower cost of living, strong STEM education pipeline and comparatively diverse technology workforce.
• While employment at technology companies has softened, demand for technology talent across all industries remains strong. More than 223,000 Missourians now work in technology occupations, with many employed outside traditional tech firms.

A major focus of this year’s report is the growing impact of artificial intelligence on Missouri’s workforce and economy. The report finds that AI is creating new opportunities for innovation and investment while also reshaping demand for technical skills and altering career pathways, particularly for early-career professionals.

To position Missouri for long-term success, the report recommends five strategic priorities:

• Prepare Missouri’s workforce and economy for AI.
• Continue leveraging Missouri’s leadership in tech manufacturing.
• Promote Missouri’s affordability to attract talent and investment.
• Expand commercialization of university and federal research.
• Strengthen support for early-stage technology companies and entrepreneurs.

Access the full report here.