ITC Attends Microsoft Global Nonprofit Leaders Summit Written by: Betsy Davies April 9, 2025 A Week of Innovation, Inspiration, and Impact: Microsoft TechSpark Fellows Summit and Global Nonprofit Leaders Summit From March 24th to 28th, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to the Seattle area and immerse myself in a week full of learning, connection, and empowerment at two transformative events hosted by Microsoft: The TechSpark Fellows Summit and the Microsoft Global Nonprofit Leaders’ Summit (GNPLS). The experience was nothing short of extraordinary. Connecting Across the Country: TechSpark Fellows Summit The TechSpark Fellows Summit, held on Microsoft’s Redmond campus, brought together fellows from across the U.S.—each of us working at the intersection of technology and community impact. It was incredibly powerful to be surrounded by such passionate changemakers, all dedicated to driving digital equity, workforce development, and economic opportunity in our respective regions. The agenda was packed with energizing content, including: A preview of the AI Readiness Report , by the Berkeley Group, offering insights into the current state of AI innovation and strategies for communities to become future-ready. Two impactful AI in Motion Panels , where Fellows shared real stories from the field—highlighting everything from digital skilling efforts to inclusive entrepreneurship initiatives. The unveiling of the new TechSpark Playbook , an invaluable tool to help us better communicate our stories and outcomes back to our communities. One of the most inspiring parts of the summit was the AI in Motion Pod Panel , where Fellows answered questions about our most impactful projects, challenges faced, and aspirations ahead. These candid conversations sparked new ideas and forged deeper bonds across the network. It was a week of not just sharing what we’ve done but dreaming together about what’s possible when we work collaboratively across geographies, with Microsoft’s powerful resources and vision behind us. Global Vision, Local Action: Microsoft Global Nonprofit Leaders Summit Midweek, I joined hundreds of nonprofit leaders from around the world at the Microsoft GNPLS in Bellevue. This summit focused on how nonprofits can harness the power of Microsoft technologies—from AI and cloud solutions to cybersecurity tools—to amplify their missions and drive greater impact. Sessions explored themes such as digital transformation, sustainability, data-driven decision-making, and building resilient nonprofit ecosystems. It was empowering to see how aligned Microsoft is with the values and needs of the nonprofit sector—and how committed they are to helping us scale our work responsibly and inclusively. Lasting Impact Walking away from this week, I feel deeply grateful—not only for the opportunity to participate in these summits, but for the continued support and inspiration provided by Microsoft through the TechSpark program. This experience reinvigorated my commitment to community innovation and gave me fresh ideas, new tools, and powerful partnerships to help move our mission forward. I’m excited to implement the insights I’ve gained and to stay connected with this vibrant network of leaders who are reimagining what’s possible in their communities. Thank you, Microsoft TechSpark and GNPLS, for an unforgettable experience. The future is bright—and I’m more ready than ever to help shape it. ### ABOUT IDAHO TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is the industry voice driving innovation in the state of Idaho. The ITC is a member driven organization; committed to the success of Idaho’s technology ecosystem and leading Idaho to a knowledge-based economy. Our mission is to build a strong tech community in Idaho by bringing people together, supporting tech education, and advocating for policies that promote sustainable growth. Together, we’re making Idaho a top destination for technology and innovation. The ITC is instrumental in building advocacy needed to persuade legislators and private industry to invest in high return initiatives that are necessary to propel new companies forward, along with retention and growth with existing companies. Email: info@idahotechcouncil.org Website: https://www.idahotechcouncil.org/

Idaho Technology Council Announces Keynote Speakers for Annual State of Technology: ITC Report & Conference For immediate release: Boise, ID – March 20, 2025 – The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is excited to announce its annual State of Technology: ITC Report & Conference, taking place on May 6, at JUMP BOISE. This premier gathering will bring together technology leaders, investors, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to explore the state of Idaho’s digital economy, the future of innovation in the state and celebrate National Small Business Week. This year’s keynote speakers include: Kelly Loeffler, 28th Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, entrepreneur, executive, philanthropist, and former U.S. Senator from Georgia. Loeffler has dedicated her career to fostering business growth and expanding economic opportunities across industries. Adam Rak, Executive Director of CyberUSA, a national initiative strengthening cybersecurity resilience by uniting organizations, resources, and intelligence to combat digital threats. In addition to these powerful keynotes, the conference will highlight the 10-year evolution of the Idaho Deal Flow Report, providing an in-depth look at how investment trends in Idaho-based companies have shifted over the past decade. Blake Hansen, Founder & CEO of Alturas and creator of the Idaho Deal Flow Report, will present insights on emerging investment patterns and economic growth in the state. The ITC will also unveil a new data dashboard designed to track and measure Idaho’s tech industry’s economic vitality. This innovative tool will provide real-time insights into the growth, challenges, and opportunities shaping Idaho’s technology sector. Date & Time Doors Open: 11:15 AM Lunch & Networking: 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM Main Program: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM Featured Speakers Andrew Crapuchettes , Founder & CEO, RedBalloon Reid Stephan , Chief Information Officer, St. Luke's Health System, ITC Board Chair Updates from ITC partners on current expansion and growth Afternoon Workshops (Held on the 5th floor, JUMP Room) Choose from two interactive sessions to gain industry insights and actionable strategies. 🕑 Round 1: 2:00 – 2:45 PM 🕒 Round 2: 3:00 – 3:45 PM Workshop Topics: Cybersecurity – Meet with CyberUSA Artificial Intelligence – The Latest and Greatest in AI Tech Jobs in Semiconductors – Shaping the Future Workforce Exporting Tech Software & Services – Expanding Global Reach Investment in Innovation – Preparing to Pitch for Big Dollars TechBridge Mentorship Program – How to Get Involved Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and shape the future of Idaho’s tech ecosystem! "The Idaho Technology Council is committed to fostering an environment where innovation thrives,” said Diane Bevan, President and CEO of the ITC. "This year’s event will not only reflect on the history of growth but will also introduce groundbreaking resources to drive Idaho’s tech sector forward." ABOUT IDAHO TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is the industry voice driving innovation in the state of Idaho. The ITC is a member driven organization; committed to the success of Idaho’s technology ecosystem and leading Idaho to a knowledge-based economy. Our mission is to build a strong tech community in Idaho by bringing people together, supporting tech education, and advocating for policies that promote sustainable growth. Together, we’re making Idaho a top destination for technology and innovation. The ITC is instrumental in building advocacy needed to persuade legislators and private industry to invest in high return initiatives that are necessary to propel new companies forward, along with retention and growth with existing companies. Email: info@idahotechcouncil.org Website: https://www.idahotechcouncil.org/