TiE Phoenix Monthly Event – The Policy Playbook: Shaping Arizona’s Entrepreneurial Future

Startups don’t operate in a vacuum—they grow within a framework of policy, funding, and strategic vision shaped by the public and private sectors alike.

This September, TiE Phoenix brings together three influential voices to examine how policy decisions at the city, state, and industry levels directly impact Arizona’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. This is an event you don’t want to miss!

Join us for a dynamic panel discussion featuring Michael Hammett, Director of the Office of Innovation for the City of Phoenix; Steve Zylstra, President & CEO of the AZ Technology Council; and Melissa Lamson, EVP of Venture Development & Innovation Strategy. Together, they will explore how regulatory environments, public investment, and innovation strategy converge to either accelerate or constrain startup growth in the Valley and beyond.

Moderated by Mark Weathers, TiE Phoenix Board Member, this conversation will go beyond headlines to uncover what founders, investors, and ecosystem builders need to know about the policy landscape—and how to engage with it effectively.

Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling your next, understanding the policy playbook is essential. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from the leaders directly involved in shaping policy.

We encourage you to attend in person, but if you cannot make it, please join us virtually at

https://meet.google.com/hfm-ztbr-ugf