On February 12, 2014, WTIA announces the acquisition of the Northwest Entrepreneur Network (NWEN), a non-profit dedicated to helping Pacific Northwest entrepreneurs succeed.

NWEN has served the region for 29 years as an essential foundation for entrepreneurs, offering educational, networking, and mentoring programs. NWEN was a powerful catalyst for many startups and inspired the formation of events and organizations that now serve entrepreneurs in the region.

As a result of this acquisition, WTIA will now operate two former NWEN programs: First Look Forum, designed to connect aspiring entrepreneurs with potential investors; and Entrepreneur University, which provides entrepreneurs with access to mentors who can help them navigate business challenges. WTIA plans to work closely with industry partners including TechStars, Madrona Venture Group, Voyager Capital, and many others to ensure that First Look Forum and Entrepreneur University continue to deliver high value for the entrepreneur community.

“We are thrilled to add these two great programs to the WTIA calendar,” said Michael Schutzler, CEO of WTIA. “Startups formed in Washington created most of our state job growth in the last two decades. We owe it to our kids and our neighbors to help every entrepreneur succeed. WTIA is proud to work with leaders in industry, education, and government to make it so.”

View the entire press release here.