Month: March 2024

As I mentioned earlier, the largest gathering of WordPress (you’re soaking in it) users in the US — named WordCamp US appropriately enough — is being held in Portland, September 17 – 20, 2024. And tickets are now on sale for $100/each.

As you’re working your way through that first cup — or first pot — of coffee… now seemed as good of a time as any to remind you that you have the opportunity to have a cup of coffee with a bunch of other founders tomorrow, Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at Crema Coffee in Taborspace.

Oregon Venture Fund‘s founder, Eric Rosenfeld, took the time to chat with Malia Spencer at the Portland Business Journal about Jama Software’s $1.2 billion exit, this week. Now, OVF’s Matt Compton provides a bit of an historical perspective on the investment in Jama, providing both concerns and positives.

Demolicious — the monthly gathering designed to give local startups the opportunity practice their pitches while competing for the coveted Demolicious belt — took place last night. And when the votes were tabulated, Ecobadlandz wound up walking away with the win.

I’ll spare you the irony of Techstars leaving Seattle because there isn’t enough venture activity there, only to have a former Techstars Seattle Managing Director and Techstars investment manager standing up a new VC fund. But I did want to share that — soon — Portland founders may have another resource for getting access to early stage capital. Meet Two Ravens.

Westside Pitch 2024 is still a couple of weeks away. But you’re lucky enough to get a sneak peek at what’s in store for the competition. TiE Oregon has revealed the finalists who will be taking the stage on April 3, 2024.

Yesterday marked the inaugural meeting of Oregon Governor Tina Kotek’s new Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council. The Governor took that opportunity to share some thoughts on AI and its potential benefits — and pitfalls — for Oregon and for government in general.