Michael Schutzler
Michael Schutzler previously served as Chief Executive Officer at Washington Technology Industry Association and held leadership roles at WTIA.
Brianna McDonald Launches Seattle’s Ecosystem Venture Group to Unite Investors and Support Startups with New Fund
Brianna McDonald has launched Seattle's Ecosystem Venture Group to integrate angel investors, VCs, and entrepreneurs by providing investment funding and advisory services. The group aims to break down sector silos and support startups toward profitability rather than chasing unicorn status.
WTIA Marks 40 Years of Supporting Washington Tech Growth as CEO Michael Schutzler Retires
The Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA) celebrated its 40th anniversary, marking its role in supporting Washington state's tech growth from the early days of Microsoft to today's tech giants. WTIA CEO Michael Schutzler is retiring after 11 years, with the association continuing to influence the state's tech-driven economy that now accounts for 21% of GDP and millions of jobs.
Washington State Tech Leaders Optimistic as $52 Billion Semiconductor Funding Arrives Through CHIPS and Science Act
Washington state tech leaders, including Lewis Johnson of NLM Photonics, are optimistic about the CHIPS and Science Act, which provides $52 billion for semiconductor companies and institutions. The act is expected to ease funding challenges and reduce investment risks in the costly, long-term development of semiconductor technology.
Wind Creek Hospitality acquires Seattle social-games developer FlowPlay; terms undisclosed
Seattle social-games developer FlowPlay, maker of Vegas World and Casino World with more than 75 million registered users, has been acquired by Wind Creek Hospitality; terms were not disclosed. Wind Creek — which runs 10 casinos and WindCreekCasino.com for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians — plans to keep FlowPlay in Seattle under CEO Derrick Morton, retaining its brand and staff.
WTIA launches eight-week Canadian XR Startup Market Accelerator to ready 10 AR/VR/voice startups for U.S. expansion
WTIA launched an eight-week Canadian XR Startup Market Accelerator to prepare 10 Canadian AR, VR and voice startups for U.S. market expansion with curriculum, mentorship and U.S. go-to-market support. The nonprofit is partnering with Global Affairs Canada and Trade and Invest British Columbia to provide workshops on sales, fundraising, localization and market validation.
FlowPlay buys out investors to become fully employee- and founder-owned after 50% revenue spike in 2020
Seattle social-game developer FlowPlay repurchased investor shares to become fully employee- and founder-owned after seeing revenue rise 50% during 2020; the 14-year-old company has 75 million registered users and plans a new title in 2021.
Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan’s First Term Tried to Reconcile Tech Firms and Critics but Left Her Politically Isolated
Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan tried to bridge tech companies and their critics during her first term by courting firms like Amazon, Expedia, and Apple, but her efforts pleased neither business leaders nor progressive activists, leaving her politically isolated and prompting her decision not to seek a second term.
WTIA names 26 Washington startups for fourth Founder Cohort Program, a year-long accelerator for early-stage firms
WTIA selected 26 Washington-based tech startups for its fourth Founder Cohort Program, a year-long initiative that helps early-stage companies with fundraising, governance and customer development. Participating companies must be headquartered in Washington, have at least one product in development and under $1 million in annual revenue; examples include CardioCube, PetBiotix and VR Ulysses.
Organizations
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Washington Technology Industry Association Former CEO, Former Chief Executive Officer, Former WTIA Leader · current
