“Arizona is thrilled to facilitate this groundbreaking partnership with global technology leader Plug and Play,” said Governor Katie Hobbs. “Plug and Play sets the standard for accelerating innovation and collaboration, finding the next generation of breakthrough technology. Their new office in Arizona will be a powerful force connecting promising startups with leading industry companies to create deep social and societal impact.”
“There are only a few special places in the world where key stakeholders such as governmental entities, local entrepreneurs and VCs, and business or university leaders welcome you with open arms. Everyone I’ve encountered in Arizona has been incredibly supportive and motivated to create the most business-friendly community possible,” said Saeed Amidi, Founder and CEO of Plug and Play. “I’m incredibly excited to launch Plug and Play Arizona and help accelerate the next generation of entrepreneurs in the Grand Canyon State.”
Plug and Play is a global innovation platform that runs programs in over 50 locations around the world. This office in Arizona will bring together stakeholders around the state who want to bring innovation to the forefront of their business. Plug and Play will work with program partners to find the startups most relevant to solving problems in a specific industry. The first program will focus on advanced manufacturing and include topics surrounding the supply chain, mobility, and IoT.
“We are incredibly excited to partner with Plug and Play to take Arizona’s startup ecosystem to the next level,” said Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. “Plug and Play’s Arizona office will be a catalyst for innovation in key target industries like advanced manufacturing, supply chain, sustainability and more. We are so thankful to Saeed Amidi and the entire Plug and Play team for making this premier partnership possible and we can’t wait for the promising collaborations ahead.”
Plug and Play chose Arizona for its newest location due to the state’s robust startup community, leading companies across targeted industries and close collaboration among startups, industry, government and education that fosters innovation and future growth.
Startups selected in this first batch will undergo a three-month program and complete a curriculum focused on business development, strategic growth, and networking. Alongside the ACA, Plug and Play will support these startups with connections to their ecosystem and potential capital.