In a classic San Francisco tech scene pivot, startup Motive has snagged the massive 40,000-square-foot office space at 1355 Market Street that was once Twitter’s headquarters under Elon Musk’s tumultuous leadership. This strategic real estate move signals both the resilience of Bay Area tech companies and the ongoing transformation of San Francisco’s startup ecosystem.

The fleet management software company, which recently closed a $150 million funding round and boasts a $2.85 billion valuation, is gradually moving into the iconic Mid-Market neighborhood location. According to the company’s chief legal officer Shu White, San Francisco remains a critical hub of “energy, innovation, and talent” that makes it the ideal place to invest and grow.

Motive’s acquisition follows a growing trend of rising tech startups filling spaces abandoned by larger tech incumbents. Similar moves have been made by companies like OpenAI, which took over massive Uber offices, and Scale AI, which claimed part of Airbnb’s former workspace. These strategic office transitions reflect the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the Bay Area’s tech landscape.

Elon Musk’s departure from the building broke his earlier promise to remain committed to San Francisco. After removing Twitter’s signage and relocating employees to Palo Alto and San Jose, Musk effectively abandoned the Art Deco building that once symbolized the company’s presence in the city.

With rumors of a potential initial public offering circulating and a recent significant funding round, Motive appears poised for significant growth. Their move into this prestigious downtown location not only provides them with premium office space but also symbolizes their confidence in San Francisco’s tech ecosystem during a period of significant industry transformation.

As tech companies continue to navigate changing work environments and economic landscapes, Motive’s bold office move represents a testament to the adaptability and resilience of Bay Area startups. The startup’s commitment to maintaining a physical presence in San Francisco sends a powerful message about the city’s enduring importance in the tech world.