Me and Nate Abbott as participants in the 2009 Techstars Boulder program
Techstars Boulder and Foundry have been cornerstones of the Colorado tech ecosystem, playing pivotal roles in its growth and development. Their efforts in supporting founders, nurturing talent, attracting capital, and spotlighting our region on the global stage have been nothing short of transformative.
Both have played a huge part in my personal journey as an entrepreneur and investor. Techstars Boulder and the Foundry partners took a bet on me in 2009 and going through the Techstars Boulder program became the most important advantage I had as a founder. I got the chance to come back and run the accelerator from 2015-2020 where I learned how to be an investor from the world’s best mentors and founders. I’m grateful to benefit from their generosity and support even today, 15 years later. When they say “Techstars is for Life”, it’s true. I wouldn’t be here without them.
As they transition away from their original roles within our community, I want to thank them for being the most important networks, communities, opportunities and friends in my entrepreneurial journey. We all owe them a debt of gratitude for what they contributed, and built and the legacy they leave behind.
Despite these departures, the Colorado tech ecosystem stands stronger than ever. The startup scene is vibrant, with a surge in new ventures, increased funding accessibility, and a rich tapestry of resources available to founders. The entrance of major tech companies like Google, Slack, Palantir, and Amazon to name a few, into the area is a clear indicator of our ecosystem's health and potential for further growth. This influx brings new opportunities and solidifies our reputation as a tech hub.
Colorado consistently ranks in the top eight states for startup funding and activity with continued growth over the years.
[INSERT CHART OF FUNDING IN THE ECOSYSTEM]
I’ve been asked if their departures is a bad for the ecosystem. My answer? Yes and no. We’ll deeply miss their involvement in these forms, but the ecosystem is very strong with many new resources and opportunities available to founders and investors focused in and on the state of Colorado.
Since the inception of Techstars Boulder and Foundry in Colorado, the tech ecosystem has evolved dynamically. What used to be a small community, is now an extensive tech hub with numerous resources, providing founders with unprecedented support:
As we bid farewell to Techstars Boulder and Foundry, it is with a mix of sadness and optimism. We embrace the opportunity to continue building upon the strong foundation they've helped establish. The Colorado tech ecosystem is in an excellent position, brimming with resources, talent, and opportunities. While we will undoubtedly miss the presence of Techstars Boulder and Foundry, we are excited about the future and the next generation of resources, tools, founders, investors, service providers, and awareness that will drive our ecosystem forward.
Let us also not forget that Techstars still has a big presence in the state with a significant office and an active Accelerator. And, we have one more Techstars Boulder class which will be in town this spring. I hope and expect the community will show up in a huge way to celebrate these founders and the community Techstars fostered here in Colorado. Stay tuned for ways to get involved.
Thank you, Techstars Boulder and Foundry, for your invaluable contributions. Your legacies will continue to inspire and shape the future of Colorado's tech ecosystem.
Since these announcements, I’ve been inundated with community members asking to help start something to replace Techstars Boulder. Thank you. Yes, we’re working on something new and novel. Stay tuned. 😉
Also, please read this great post from Nicole Glaros on wishing Techstars well in 2.0
