Summer 2009
Framing the Future of Computing and of Washington's Long-Term Competitiveness
On May 1st, more than 700 business, research and policy leaders from across the state were on hand for the premier event for Washington's innovation community: the Technology Alliance's 2009 State of Technology Luncheon.
Governor Chris Gregoire kicked off the event, expressing appreciation for the innovative, forward-looking members of the audience who represent Washington's economic future. Other highlights included the Alliance of Angels 2009 Company of the Year announcement and key findings from the Technology Alliance's latest study benchmarking Washington's competitiveness in the drivers of a successful innovation economy.
The program culminated in a keynote conversation featuring one of those forward-looking innovators, Microsoft Chief Software Architect Ray Ozzie.
An experienced entrepreneur and industry visionary, Ozzie joined TA board member Ed Lazowska of University of Washington Computer Science & Engineering onstage to share his insights into the future of computing.
TA Chair Jeremy Jaech Urges Washington to "Put the Pedal to the Metal" in the Race to Grow Our Innovation Economy
Since 2003, the Technology Alliance has periodically benchmarked Washington's progress in advancing the essential drivers of a successful innovation economy: excellence in K-12 and higher education, strong public and private research, and a robust entrepreneurial climate.
At the 2009 State of Technology Luncheon, Jeremy Jaech, CEO of Verdiem, revealed which states are in pole position.
Alliance of Angels Launches Seed Fund to Supercharge Early Stage Investment
Building on its well-earned reputation as one of the most active angel groups in the nation, Alliance of Angels announced this spring the launch of its new AoA Seed Fund. The Fund will capitalize on AoA's screening process and network of savvy investors to have an even greater impact in supporting the growth of innovative, young companies in the region.
The Fund made its first investment in June, directing $235,000 to online project management software developer LiquidPlanner. The investment was in addition to a combined $385,000 the company received from individual AoA members in recent months.
Think of it as angel investing, supercharged.
Greg Huey Brings a Wealth of Investment Experience to Position of AoA Program Director
Alliance of Angels was pleased to welcome Greg Huey, former principal at Seattle-based Frazier Technology Ventures, as the new AoA program director. Greg's primary mission as he takes the helm will be to strengthen investor outreach and education, building on the program's robust deal flow and status as the Northwest's premier entrepreneur-friendly angel investing group.
Important Dates
- September 1
- Alliance of Angels 10-Minute Pitch Clinic
- 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
- Seattle
- September 11
- Science & Technology Discovery Series
- Featuring: Tadayoshi Kohno, University of Washington
- Computer Science & Engineering
- 7:30 am - 9:00 am
- Seattle
- September 17
- Technology Alliance Board Meeting
- 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
- Seattle
- September 28-30
- Technology Institute
- Leavenworth
