BELLEVUE, Wash. - The City of Bellevue, Bellevue College, Washington Technology Solutions and King County Information Technology have launched The Exchange Northwest, a new regional partnership focused on advancing civic innovation, digital equity and community collaboration across the Pacific Northwest, the city announced.
According to a city news release, the partnership establishes a shared ecosystem designed to connect government, education, startups, small businesses, nonprofits and residents in building innovative, community-driven technology solutions. The Exchange draws on each partner's strengths to support innovation in government services, expand opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs, support AI innovation in the region and create more equitable access to technology and resources across the state.
As part of the regional kickoff, registration is now open for the second annual Innovation Exchange, taking place Wednesday, June 3, from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue. The all-day event is open to the public and brings together leaders from public agencies, startups, nonprofits, academia and the broader community for keynotes, panels, hands-on workshops and interactive breakout sessions aligned with four tracks. Registration is required to attend, and more information is available at ExchangeNW.org.
"Bellevue is proud to launch The Exchange Northwest with regional partners who share a vision for inclusive, responsible innovation," said Bellevue Chief Information Officer Sabra Schneider. "Together, we are building spaces where new ideas can take root, deliver real benefits to our communities and equitably drive AI innovation. Innovation should work for everyone."
"Bellevue College is committed to providing hands-on learning and opportunities that prepare students for the future," said Bellevue College President David May. "The Exchange will help connect education, industry and government in ways that strengthen our region's innovation pipeline and capacity."
"WaTech is excited to join this regional partnership and advance innovation that improves the lives of Washington residents," said WaTech Director and State Chief Information Officer Bill Kehoe. "The Exchange helps foster collaboration across agencies and sectors to address shared challenges and solutions."
"KCIT is looking forward to partnering through the Exchange to accelerate service improvements and support a more connected, equitable region," said King County Chief Information Officer Stephen Heard. "Innovation is a team effort, and this collaboration helps move the entire region forward."