Hybrid strengthening of columns is explored in this study using both near-surface mounting (NSM) of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates and external bonding (EB) of CFRP fabric. A total of ten small-scale square columns were cast and tested to investigate the efficiency of hybrid strengthening of RC columns under pure compression. A nonlinear finite element model was proposed to investigate the behavior of columns with and without FRP strengthening. The experimental results are compared with the finite element predictions to validate the proposed model and the predicted response. Comparisons showed close correlation with the observed behavior. The results indicate the hybrid strengthening was able to increase both the strength and stiffness of columns compared to that of only NSM and CFRP confined columns. © 2019, Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd.