Message from CEO Steven G. Zylstra: We’re here for you
The Council’s team is more dedicated than ever to supporting the development, growth and advancement of science- and technology-driven companies in Arizona, fostering a climate of creativity and community for its members, and strengthening the state as an innovation hub. Read more on how to stay connected and plugged in during this critical time.

Industry report reveals tech jobs growing at twice the rate of U.S. overall
To keep its constituents informed on the progress of Arizona’s technology community, the Council released its latest Quarterly Arizona Technology Industry Impact Report. Among other positive news, the data from Q4 2019 revealed that Arizona’s technology jobs are growing 2.1 times faster as compared to the U.S. economy, there was $864 million in venture capital investments and the average startup valuation was $3.9 million. Read more.

Spring 2020 issue of TechConnect: The Risk Capital issue
For Arizona tech companies going through the funding challenges that arise in startup and early stage, the answer for a select number of these companies has come in the form of risk capital. View the Spring 2020 issue of TechConnect to learn how investors look past the risks to offer range of options that support growth, how risk capital can be critical to boosting the trajectories of successful companies, and how Arizona institutions are helping startups make the right connections.

COVID-19 resources to help you and your business
The coronavirus is causing financial difficulties for businesses, employees and communities across the United States. Here are valuable resources that can help you and your business navigate during this difficult situation: 
www.aztechcouncil.org/about-us/covid-19-resources.

Navigating Commercial Leases in Uncertain Times
Thursday, April 2 | 10AM | Virtual Event
In these uncertain times, understanding your options when it comes to commercial leases is essential for business owners. Presented by Keyser, Arizona’s largest, independent commercial real estate brokerage, this virtual event provides strategies and best practices to protect yourself and your business assets. Register to attend this free event.

Virtual Breakfast Speaker Series
Tuesday, April 14 | 9AM | Virtual Event
Join the Arizona Technology Council for its new Virtual Breakfast Speaker Series featuring Christine Boles, vice president in the Internet of Things Group (IOTG) and general manager of Intel’s Industrial Solutions Division. This new virtual event series features innovators and industry leaders of existing and emerging sectors who are reshaping Arizona’s tech ecosystem. Register here.

MedTech Roundtable: Leverage Tech + Maintain Human Connection
Tuesday, April 21 | 3:30PM | Virtual Event
Council members and nonmembers are invited to join the MedTech Committee for a virtual roundtable discussion on High Tech-High Touch: Leveraging Tech While Maintaining a Human Connection. Register here.

MedTech 2020 Conference | AI in Healthcare
June 17 | Venue8600 | 8600 E Anderson Drive | Scottsdale AZ 85255
This unparalleled gathering of healthcare professionals, innovators and medtech experts will discuss the future of medtech and the role of AI and machine learning in healthcare. Attendees will hear industry thought leaders share how advanced technology is disrupting and evolving healthcare as we know it to vastly improve patient assessment and treatment. Register to attend.

Stay connected and engaged in the tech community!
Some Council events have recently been rescheduled or shifted to virtual events. Visit www.aztechcouncil.org/phoenix-events for the most up-to-date tech events in Phoenix and Tucson.

There is an undeniable entrepreneurial and community spirit about Arizona, a spirit rooted in perseverance, strength, collaboration and community. In the wake of #COVID19, here are some local companies making a difference. In times of uncertainty, these leaders are rising to the occasion.

• Intel donates over 1 million protective items for healthcare workers.
• Digital Canvas helps local, small businesses with a free directory and promotion platform.
• ON Semiconductor donates 10,000 masks to help fight coronavirus.
• Arizona Cardinals make $1 million donation to AZ Coronavirus Fund.
• Banner Health launches drive-thru process to test for coronavirus.
• Promineo Tech is giving away three full-ride scholarships for its online software developer programs.
• Botco.ai is offering its chatbot service free of charge to franchises in the fitness, beauty, health and wellness industries.
• Acronis SCS is offering its collaboration solution at no charge to support remote workers during the coronavirus outbreak.
• Gov. Doug Ducey announces the #ArizonaTogether Initiative, linking Arizonans to resources.
• Giving back to those in need: Scottsdale tech firm LeadMD is collaborating with Invest Southwest to launch a new fund to help affected small businesses, while Chandler tech company MST Solutions is paying for, buying and dropping off needed items for the senior community.
• Arizona utilities and service providers have signed the Keep Americans Connected Pledge, which includes a commitment to waive late fees and not terminate a residential or small business customer’s service due to financial circumstances associated with COVID-19.

Find ways you can help the community and nonprofits during the crisis
There are so many ways you can help, from providing virtual support to delivering food and medication, even helping with daily tasks for people who live alone. Here is a list of local organizations that are asking the community to contribute and keep crucial programs running through various types of donations. Learn more about other volunteer opportunities in this time of critical need by visiting www.azcommerce.com/covid-19/community or arizonatogether.org.

Know a great Arizona company making a difference in the community? 
Email [email protected] so the Council can feature their efforts.

Affordable healthcare for your growing business
Health insurance is of the utmost importance, now more than ever. The Arizona Technology Council understands that many fledgling companies, startups and small businesses cannot afford health insurance. That is exactly why the Council’s new association health plan (AHP) with Blue Cross® Blue Shield® of Arizona targets member employers with fewer than 100 employees. When multiple small businesses join together as one association, they can take advantage of affordable health plans that can help attract and retain top talent. Request a quote today to find the right plan for your company and get the healthcare you deserve. visit www.aztechcouncil.org/ahp or contact [email protected].

ACC Commissioner Lea Márquez Peterson calls for 100% clean energy
Arizona Corporation Commission Commissioner Lea Márquez Peterson issued a letter calling on her fellow commissioners to pass a policy that would require regulated electric utilities to generate 100% of their power from clean energy resources by 2050. Learn how Arizona is moving forward with a cleaner and more affordable energy future.

March 2020 Preferred Business Partner: AZ Litho
As a member of the Arizona Technology Council, you have greater access to AZ Litho, Tucson’s premier printing company and a trusted source for all of your business print communications. With over 67 years in the printing industry and having received over 80 awards for excellence in printing, AZ Litho’s mission is to provide high-quality products with an element of service that exceeds every customer’s expectations. Learn how AZ Litho can help you meet your business challenges with their Open for Business Promotion or visit www.azlitho.com.

Preferred Business Partners Program 
Your business has daily challenges…finding the right vendors shouldn’t be one of them. Don’t waste time collecting quotes around town—we’ve done that for you. Visit www.aztechcouncil.org/pbp for valuable discounts to help your business or tech startup grow.

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