I knew it would happen. The second I started blabbing about the fact that I’m not a fan of pitch competitions I’d jinxed myself. Now…? All I seem to get are pings about pitch competitions. Here’s another one: the Technology Association of Oregon AI Startup Innovation Sandbox.
The next wave of AI innovation is being built right here in the Pacific Northwest. Join us on April 22 for the TAO AI Startup Innovation Sandbox — an exciting evening showcasing a curated group of early-stage AI startups with strong regional roots and bold plans to build across Oregon and Washington.
Here’s a fun twist though. It’s not just the founders who are volunteering as tribute. It’s the investors as well. Before the founders even take the stage, a panel of investors will share their portfolio priorities, technology focus areas, theses, and — this is the part I like — the gaps they’re actively looking to fill.
That’s more than a pitch competition. That’s an open book test.
On April 22, 2026, a curated group of pre-seed and seed-stage AI startups from Oregon and Washington will compete. If you want to watch, doors open at 5:30PM. And if you’re building an early-stage AI startup in Oregon or Washington? Maybe consider pitching.
For more information or to register, visit the TAO AI Startup Innovation Sandbox.
Thoughts?
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
[…] the game with Claude Social Night. (On the downside, it’s the same exact night as the TAO AI Sandbox event, April 22, 2026. But alas, such is life. (And isn’t it nice to see competing AI […]