In a time when many tech companies are downsizing or leaving the Bay Area, Tubi is bucking the trend by expanding its San Francisco footprint. The free streaming platform, owned by Fox Corporation, is set to move into a sprawling 31,000-square-foot office in SoMa this fall, signaling confidence in the city’s tech ecosystem.

Tubi’s strategic relocation goes beyond just finding new office space. The company is leveraging this move to launch an innovative mentorship program called Tubi Builders, designed to nurture early-career talent in tech. With an inaugural class of 20 participants, the 18-month rotation program offers aspiring engineers and product managers a unique pathway into full-time roles.

Natasha Valani, Tubi’s chief people officer, emphasizes the importance of collaborative spaces. “When you bring talented people together in one space, you increase the velocity of collaboration and connection,” she explains. This philosophy underscores Tubi’s commitment to creating an environment that fosters innovation and professional growth.

The streaming platform has been quietly making waves in the digital media landscape. With over 100 million active users and capturing 2.2% of U.S. streaming traffic, Tubi sits comfortably ahead of competitors like Paramount Plus. Their ad-supported model offers free content, distinguishing them in a market dominated by subscription services.

Currently employing 140 people in San Francisco, with a requirement of at least two in-office days per week, Tubi represents a refreshing narrative of urban tech development. Their expansion signals potential optimism for San Francisco’s tech scene, which has faced significant challenges in recent years.

As the tech industry continues to evolve, Tubi’s approach demonstrates a nuanced understanding of workplace dynamics, talent development, and urban revitalization. By investing in physical space and human potential, they’re not just growing a company, they’re contributing to the broader narrative of San Francisco’s technological renaissance.