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Month: August 2015

Looking for a nibble of food and tech? Maybe you should check out Food Bytes

One of the things about Portland that can be frustrating is that there are all of these awesome creative people. But they’re kind of stuck in these random constricted silos. That rarely crossover. That’s why I love it when people work to break down those silos. Like tech crossover artists. Like Food Bytes. Read More

How do you really feel about work? Portland startup Quiply seeks to provide deeper insights into workplaces

With talent at a premium and folks having the opportunity to choose from any number of companies, making the right decision takes more than salary numbers and outward facing marketing—especially in a town like Portland where you’re likely to be working there for several years. That’s why Portland startup Quiply is interesting. Read More

Thumbs up: These Portland speakers hope to be on stage at SXSW. You can help.

Yes, we’re in the final hours of TFNW. But it’s not too early to think about SXSW. And one of the best things about SXSW is that it’s one of the few massive technology conferences that allows the crowd to provide input on speakers and panels. They do it through the SXSW PanelPicker. And it’s always nice to see some Portland types in the running for a spot. Read More

Crop rotation: As previous seed funds move to later stages, more seed funds fill the void

Ask any Portland founder what their biggest challenge is and I will bet you that—nine times out of ten—the response will be “talent.” But if you ask them what else—besides talent—is keeping them up at night, the answer will be the same answer it has been since, well, since startups. “Money.” And that’s why it’s nice to see the funding environment here in Oregon continuing to mature. Read More

And so it begins: PDX TechCrawl, TechFestNW, Talent Fair, PIGSquad Game Jam, and TFNW Interactive

It’s going to be a busy week here in the Portland startup scene. What’s that? You didn’t know. Oh. Well this is a bit awkward. I thought I told you. Well, no worries. If you haven’t had a chance to jump onboard, there’s still time. Well, barely. But I have confidence in you. I’m sure you can make it happen. What’s in store? A whole heck of a lot. Read More

Portland indie video game XO finds fans … and the funding needed to bring it to reality

One of the most interesting things about running Kickstarter campaigns, in my opinion, is the validation—or lack thereof—of an idea. Obviously, the funding is helpful. But the realization that other folks believe in what you’re doing and believe that you should keep doing it? That’s the real magic. And now, a new Portland indie video game, has gotten both the validation and the funding it needs. Meet XO. Read More

Memorable research: Consano creates a simple way to fund medical research while honoring your loved ones

Portland startup Consano has been changing the way that medical research is funded, allowing anyone to establish fundraising campaigns directed at research. But they’re not stopping there. They noticed a trend in donations—donating in the name of a loved one—that inspired them to create a new feature for the service, Honor Funds. Read More

Silicon Florist is eight. And eight is great. Or something. And stuff.

Most years—as Silicon Florist’s birthday rolls around—I tend to get a bit sappy. And wrapped up in a bit of nostalgia. But honestly? I’m not really feeling it this year. (If you’re in the mood for one of those types of posts, the sixth birthday post should more than satiate that hunger for gooby and sappy.) This year, I’m in a crappy mood. Read More