The purpose of the First Look Forum has been, up until this year, to bring together entrepreneurs from the PNW to learn, compete, collaborate, and grow in Seattle. This year, however, the Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA) decided to bring the program to another part of the state for the first time.

Thanks to the initiative of some local business leaders, they chose Bellingham.

In an article explaining why WTIA decided to select Bellingham as the first venue outside of Seattle, CEO Michael Schutlzer states that the organization wanted to find somewhere that already had a strong startup ecosystem.

WTIA had already been approached earlier in the year by the NW Innovation Resource Center, a local organization that supports entrepreneurs and inventors. While visiting Bellingham, the WTIA staff met with the mayor, the president of WCC, and WWU’s Dean of Engineering among others.

“It became clear that Bellingham had a really strong community and that there was a need for ways to spotlight the region as a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation,” says Schutlzer.

The First Look Forum is a way for entrepreneurs and innovators who haven’t publicly sought investment to gain exposure and feedback, all while competing for a $10,000 cash prize.

Although the final winner gains both the investment and the bragging rights, WTIA stresses that the event benefits all the competitors. By preparing each candidate for future meetings with investors and VC firms, the First Look Forum is intended to improve the startup culture in Bellingham.

The First Look Forum not only promises great opportunities for local innovators; it highlights the strength of Bellingham’s small business culture. With the dedication and passion of the members of our local business community, we may see even more organizations like WTIA choose Bellingham to host events. One thing is certain: it’s a great time to be an entrepreneur in this town.

The Forum will take place on November 18th from 2:00pm to 6:00pm at the Bellingham Golf & Country Club. Registration closes on October 18th, so don’t delay to get your innovations into the running. For more info, directions, or to register visit the WTIA First Look Forum events page.