River North Just Landed a Global Tech HQ: Aikido Security Picks the Neighborhood for Its U.S. Home Base

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Near North · May 8, 2026

Near North neighbors, your neighborhood just got a major vote of confidence from the global tech world. Belgian cybersecurity powerhouse Aikido Security announced this week that it's planting its U.S. headquarters right here in River North — a move that underscores how the neighborhood continues to attract serious, high-growth businesses from around the world.

Aikido Security, whose platform is used by more than 100,000 teams every day, chose River North as the launching pad for its North American expansion after watching its U.S. customer count surge nearly 300% over the past year. The new River North office will serve as the operational hub for Aikido's growing North American team, handling go-to-market strategy and customer support across the country. Leading the charge is Louis Jonckheere, the company's General Manager of North America, who previously co-founded Showpad — bringing a proven track record of scaling tech companies to the neighborhood's already-buzzing professional scene.

It's yet another signal that River North isn't just a great place to eat and play — it's becoming one of Chicago's premier business destinations too. As more innovative companies choose to call Near North home, the neighborhood's energy and economic momentum keep building. Are you excited to see global tech giants choosing River North? Drop your thoughts in the Socialhood comments below!

Sources:
1. https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/aikido-security-accelerates-north-america-130000821.html